breaks

JODIE Marsh shared a tearful video as she broke her silence after a fire on her farm killed two of her beloved animals.

The star turned her back on fame to run Fripps Farm in Essex where she cares for an abundance of animals.

But in heartbreaking news, a fire took hold over the weekend causing the deaths of two of Jodie’s marmosets.

The former model has revealed she will be moving “far far away” following the incident, which also saw her lose her valuables.

She said: “I’ve given up my whole life for them, and those babies meant everything to me.

“I am so broken, so broken.

sad update

Jodie Marsh left heartbroken as two of her beloved animals die after horror fire

JODIE’S JOY

Jodie Marsh weeps in court after being told she can keep lemurs at sanctuary

“I don’t care about my house being destroyed. I have lost everything that’s valuable to me – but I don’t care.

“The only thing I care about is that I lost two baby marmosets, and the reason I had them in the bedroom is because their mum died giving birth, and I had to take them and hand rear them. 

“They meant everything to me.

“That’s the biggest loss for me.”

This [her property] is just stuff that can be replaced. The babies dying, has broken me beyond belief. Because I do everything for these animals.”

An emotional Jodie said she now plans to start afresh after the tragic loss.

“I will be going far, far away. I don’t care about my house being destroyed, all I care about is losing two marmosets,” she tearfully said.

The two animals died after a fire broke out on the first floor of the farm, according to reports.

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service raced to the scene shortly before 5pm on Saturday afternoon.

A spokesperson for Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said: “Firefighters were called at 4.56pm to a fire in Lindsell, Dunmow.

“On arrival, the property was full of smoke and crews discovered a fire in the upstairs bedroom. 

“Crews worked hard to extinguish the fire and stop it from spreading.

“The cause of the fire has been recorded as accidental, started by an electrical item.”

Fripps Farm is located just north of Dunmow in the North Essex countryside and Jodie has become known for housing many rescued animals at the five acre property.

Just some of the animals that Josie cares for include emus, alpacas, pigs, llamas, goats, deer, sheep and cows.

Fripps Farm hasn’t been without its controversies amid neighbour rows and court battles.

In June of this year, she was left in tears of joy after winning a court battle to keep lemurs at the sanctuary.

She had appealed against a council’s decision to refuse her application for a wild animal licence.

Concerns had been raised about her taking a meerkat to the pub.

Former glamour model Marsh, 46, said trolls were behind much of the criticism.

At a previous hearing, clips of screeching zoo lemurs were played to Chelmsford magistrates’ court.

But Judge Christopher Williams dismissed the council’s argument about the animals’ noise.

Medical estimates put survival without food at 45 to 61 days. Three Palestine Action activists in the UK are now pushing beyond that boundary.

Three British activists from the proscribed Palestine Action group are on hunger strike seeking bail and a fair trial, with friends and relatives warning they are close to death but determined to continue until their demands are met.

Heba Muraisi and Kamran Ahmed have refused food for 70 and 63 days respectively as part of a rolling hunger strike that began in November. A third prisoner, Lewie Chiaramello, is also refusing food on alternating days due to type 1 diabetes.

Five of the eight people who took part in the protest have ended their hunger strikes due to health concerns.

They are held in different jails over their alleged involvement in break-ins at the United Kingdom subsidiary of Israeli defence firm Elbit Systems in Bristol, where equipment was damaged, and at a Royal Air Force base in Oxfordshire, where two military aircraft were sprayed with red paint.

They deny all charges.

The group is demanding:

• Bail and the right to a fair trial, and the reversal of the UK government’s July designation of Palestine Action as a “terrorist organisation”, placing it alongside ISIL (ISIS) and al-Qaeda.
• Closure in the UK of all Elbit sites, which are facilities operated by Israel’s largest defence company, manufacturing military technology used by the Israeli armed forces and other governments.
• An end to what they describe as censorship inside prison, including the withholding of mail, phone calls and books.

All eight will have spent more than a year in custody without trials, exceeding the UK’s usual six-month pre-trial detention limit.

What does prolonged hunger do to the body?

In the early stages of starvation, after several days without food, the body begins breaking down muscle to produce energy.

As the fast continues, metabolism slows down. The body loses its ability to regulate temperature, kidney function deteriorates, and the immune system weakens, reducing the body’s ability to heal from injury.

Once the body’s reserves are depleted, it can no longer prioritise nutrients for vital organs. The heart and lungs become less efficient, muscles shrink and profound weakness sets in.

Eventually, as protein stores are depleted, and the body begins to break down its own tissues. At this stage, death may be imminent.

Scientific research on prolonged starvation is limited due to ethical reasons; however, estimates suggest that a healthy, well-nourished adult could survive without food for between 45 and 61 days, which means the three activists have now reached, or exceeded, that threshold, placing them in extreme, life-threatening danger.

International concern

Hunger strikes have long been used as an extreme, non-violent form of protest, relying on moral pressure to compel those in power to act. Historical records trace the practice to ancient India and Ireland, where people would fast at the doorstep of someone who had wronged them as a form of public shaming.

In modern times, hunger strikes remain powerful political statements, often drawing international attention to cases of imprisonment, injustice or repression, even at the cost of the striker’s life. Hundreds of Palestinian prisoners incarcerated without any charges by Israel have resorted to hunger strikes to bring attention to their cases.

United Nations experts said hunger strikes are “often a measure of last resort by people who believe their rights to protest and effective remedy have been exhausted”. They added that the state’s duty of care towards hunger strikers is heightened, not diminished, and that authorities must ensure timely access to emergency and hospital care, refrain from pressure or retaliation, and respect medical ethics.

Kerry Moscogiuri, director of campaigns and communications at Amnesty International UK, called the situation alarming. She said it was “shocking that these activists have been forced to resort to such desperate measures to bring attention to their plight”, adding that the crisis reflects a “gross misuse of counterterrorism powers”.

KENDALL Jenner has opened up on cosmetic procedures she’s had in order to shut down rumours once and for all she’s had work done. 

While the Kardashian family love ‘tweakments’ and going under the knife to achieve their perfect image, 30-year-old Kendall has always maintained that she has never had any plastic surgery to maintain her supermodel looks. 

Appearing on the In Your Dreams podcast, Kendall shut down rumours that she’s had any sort of extensive work – despite facing years of criticism online by those claiming she’s lied about having surgery on her face, including a nose job. 

“I’m not going to sit here and convince anyone that I haven’t had work,” the star told host Owen Theile. “There’s a whole world on the internet that thinks I’ve had full facial reconstruction.

“I’m just here to tell you the truth, which is the fact that I’ve never had any plastic surgery on my face. Nothing. I’ve never had any work done.” 

While Owen didn’t appear convinced, she stood her ground and added: “I swear to God. I’ve done two rounds of Baby Botox in my forehead. That’s it. The only thing I’ve ever injected.”

She added that she “didn’t love it” and has opted to not use it since. 

“I look at old photos of me and I’m like, ‘Wait, it does look like I have a nose job,’” she added. “[But] I swear to God, on everything that I love, I’ve never had a nose job.” 

However, while she’s not had any major work done, she loves having skin rejuvenation treatments after suffering from acne for years. 

Among the treatments she’s tried are the “vampire facials” which involve microneedling platelet-rich plasma into the skin, and PRP injections to inject her own blood plasma back into her skin to give a filler-type effect. 

However, Kendall does understand where the confusion is coming from, admitting that looking at old photographs from her teenage years she could see why people would presume she’d gone under the knife. 

But she condemned those who have used social media to analyse what she may or may not have had done, saying it could have a negative impact on young people who follow her. 

“It can affect young people in such an interesting way,” she explained. “Because then they see that and they’re like, ‘Oh my god, that’s what I have to do to look like that.’ And then they go rush, and they do something silly.”

The star’s frank chat also included her addressing long-standing rumours about her sexuality – despite being in public relationships with stars including Harry Styles, Bad Bunny and Devin Booker.

“I understand that coming out is not an easy thing for anybody, if not most people, and I’m not saying it’s an easy thing” she said.

“But knowing, and I can speak for myself here, and knowing myself, I think at this point in my life I’d be out if I was.”

“I’m not saying it’s an easy thing. I’m just saying that knowing me and knowing how I would want to live my life, I would be,” she added.

“I’d have no problem being that.”

“All’s to say, as of today, I am not,” she later added, before noting: “I don’t think I will be, but I’m not closing doors to experiences in life.”

BEACH HOLIDAYS

Switch off on a Greek island

Astypalaia has the same pretty, white-washed houses you see on the famous Greek islands, but it’s far less busy. The main town is beautiful, with buildings leading up a hill to an old castle. We rented a small apartment and spent our days on quiet pebble beaches that we had almost to ourselves. It’s a genuinely peaceful place where you can properly switch off from the noise of modern life.
Roy

A Corsican beach that never gets busy

Our favourite beach in Europe is Plage de Péru on Corsica. It can be reached by a pleasant downhill walk from the village of Cargèse, established by descendants of Greek immigrants from the Mani peninsula in the 18th century. However, we were lucky enough to have direct access from the Hotel Thalassa, a sleepy hotel with balconies and a leafy garden facing the turquoise waters. There may be better beaches on Corsica but this one is perfect for swimming and never seems to get busy. You can spend a day walking from the beach to the local Genoese tower, then return and grab a seat at one of the beach pailottes where you can eat and drink while watching the sunset.
Eleanor

Hot sand and siestas in Catalonia

The train from Barcelona deposits its passengers right on Sant Pol de Mar’s harbour. The sound of gently bobbing rigging and the whiff of seafood drifts from the village, where the promise of a splendid lunch awaits. The Playa el Morer is reached on foot along a curving bay where frazzled city dwellers dig their heels in that hot, amber sand, and take a siesta and the occasional dip. Sant Pol, it seems, exists to mend broken hearts and heal the soul.
Liz

Timeless charm in Akyaka, Turkey

On a road trip through Turkey’s south-west, I stumbled upon Akyaka, a peaceful, pine-fringed village untouched by mass tourism. The Azmak River, so clear it seemed unreal, flowed past riverside cafes where I watched turtles drift by. Locals welcomed me like family and evenings meant fresh seafood and golden sunsets. The architecture – wooden houses with carved balconies – gave the town a timeless charm. Paddleboarding on the calm sea at sunrise was something I’ll never forget.
Debbie

Stay cool on the Danish Riviera

Who needs the scorching Med when you have the Danish Riviera. The water is clean and refreshing (no wetsuits allowed – you’ll be laughed off the beach). Danish summer hols are in July, so you’ll have the beach to yourself in August. Book a summer cottage near Gilleleje, a charming fishing village about an hour from Copenhagen. Denmark is expensive, so self-catering is best. Ice-cream at Hansens; lunch in Gilleleje harbour; culture at Louisiana modern art museum and Hamlet’s Castle in Helsingør.
Christina

A quieter alternative to Capri, Italy

Procida, in the Bay of Naples, is not as famous as nearby Capri and Ischia, but is all the more appealing for it. Not a tourist trap but an island where people actually live, it’s a delightful slice of unhurried Italian life. It’s small enough to explore on foot or by bicycle, and there is a bus service too. There are many pretty little beaches for swimming, sunbathing and picnicking – our favourite was Il Postino, where scenes from the movie of the same name were filmed. As people still fish for a living, there’s no shortage of wonderfully fresh seafood in the restaurants. Villa Caterina B&B’s orchard of lemon and orange trees provides fresh juice and marmalade for breakfast, and the rooms have views of the island and the bay, with Vesuvius looming in the distance and Naples only 45 minutes away by ferry.
Bernie G

Seafood and sunsets in the Vendée, France

We had a wonderful week in Les Sables d’Olonne in the Vendée. The town has plenty of sights – the shell museum was well worth a trip – and there are many seafood restaurants. The main beach (La Grande Plage) is extremely popular and has beignet and glace-sellers and beach volleyball. However, we found ourselves gravitating to the less busy Plage de la Paracou, smaller and more rugged, no tourist trappings and wonderful sunsets. There was also a fantastic small open-air bar just over the dune, which had great live acoustic music a few nights a week.
Dolly

Pebble coves and olive groves on Silba, Croatia

I didn’t know much about Silba before I arrived (on a catamaran from Zadar) – it’s a small, car-free island with no hotels, just family-run guesthouses. You can walk on shaded paths through olive groves, find quiet pebble coves with clear water for swimming and climb the Toreta tower at sunset for great views of the Adriatic. My tip: bring a snorkel, stay at least two nights and be sure to book your return ferry in advance, as schedules are limited.
Elaine

RAIL JOURNEYS TO REMEMBER

The night train from Belgrade to Lake Skadar

We took a sleeper from Belgrade (after a few days exploring this cool, arty city) and loved the old-school velvety cabins with corridors and big open windows. We woke up to stunning Lake Skadar on the Montenegro-Albania border. After a few days exploring the lake, the ruined hill town of Stari Bar and Montenegro’s beautiful coastline, we headed back up to Belgrade by day – the mountainous scenery on this 11-hour journey is spectacular, and all for €50 round trip. We used the Man at Seat 61 to learn about the route.
Jenny

Interrail to Morocco

We travelled from the UK to Morocco via train and ferry, stopping in Girona and Córdoba, both of which have picturesque old towns. In Córdoba we visited eight stunning courtyard gardens as well as the Palace of Viana and the Mezquita, surely one of the most astonishing buildings in the world. On the return leg we stopped in Málaga and Montpellier, both characterful places. We would have missed out on these wonderful destinations if we had flown directly to Marrakech.
Louise

Anywhere in Belgium for €8.50

Last year, my wife and I explored Belgium by train, staying in an apartment near Antwerp station, a fantastic cathedral to the railways containing several pink granite columns and panels, polished in our home town of Aberdeen. In Belgium over-65s can buy a day return ticket to anywhere in the country for just €8.50. We visited several towns and cities, and discovered the Unesco-listed Flemish Béguinages – medieval communities composed of houses, churches and green spaces for widows or unmarried women, many now beautifully restored.
Jim Fiddes

Glorious north Wales rail circuit

Starting in Shrewsbury, a spectacular multi-day circuit of north Wales is possible: take the Cambrian Coast line through Aberystwyth, Barmouth and Porthmadog, then the gorgeous Ffestiniog Railway to Blaenau, where you can link back to Llandudno on the coast, and return to Shrewsbury (change at Llandudno Junction). There is no shortage of accommodation, allowing you to stop and explore without rigid planning. Out of summer the Cambrian coast and the seaside towns are unexplored jewels.
Dave Thomas

Laid-back vibes on the line to Ljubljana

After days getting blissfully lost in the quiet alleys and forgotten courtyards of Venice, we boarded the train from Santa Lucia station and sped across the shimmering lagoon to Trieste. In a sunlit square, we savoured chocolate gelato, the Mediterranean sparkling nearby. Next was laid-back Ljubljana, where we sipped cocktails by the river, surrounded by art and colour. Finally, a graffiti-covered train carried us to Lake Bled, where we hiked and swam beneath the majestic Julian Alps, ending our journey in a cosy glamping pod under the stars and amid fireflies.
Alex

A perfect triangle in France

My wife and I have travelled around a lot of Europe but our best trip for simplicity is a triangle of France: the Eurostar to Paris, then the TGV to Toulouse for saucisse and architectural and historical delights; next, the slow train to Bayonne, gazing at the Pyrenees as the train trundles past Lourdes, and on to the French Basque coast; then the TGV back up to Paris. City, gastronomy, mountains and beach all in one.
George

Rome to Sicily by train and ferry

Hop on the sleeper in Rome, or perhaps Naples, and wake the next morning in Sicily. There’s no bridge (yet) so the train is loaded on to a ferry for the crossing while you are sound asleep in one of the functional little compartments. You can go direct all the way to Palermo or beautiful Syracuse in the south-east of the island.
Polly

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK ADVENTURES

Cabin life on a Finnish lake

One of the most magical places I’ve been is Lake Saimaa in eastern Finland – a labyrinth of islands and forests where you don’t come across many people. We rented a lakeside cabin and watched the midnight sun shimmer across peaceful waters. Days were spent kayaking between islets or hiking pine-scented trails, with only the call of black-throated divers (or loons) for company. We visited the Linnansaari national park in the middle of the vast lake, where encounters with rare Saimaa ringed seals await. It’s nature’s embrace at its purest – remote, quiet and utterly rejuvenating.
Anthony

Riverside camping in Portugal’s mountains

The sleepy villages of the Serra da Estrela, continental Portugal’s highest mountain range, are a world away from its coastal honeypots. In Vila Cova à Coelheira there is a free campsite on the banks of the River Alva, reached via an old Roman bridge that you can swim under (or jump in from, if you’re feeling brave). Even better, there is a bar at the river beach that serves excellent pica-pau – pork braised in wine with onions and pickles.
David

True remoteness in Scotland’s Outer Hebrides

For an experience of true remoteness, I’d recommend the Hebridean island of Berneray, between North Uist and Harris. Here you can walk across the rare grassland called the machair to the white, three-mile long West beach and marvel at the immense space and colour of the Atlantic. We stayed at Gatliff Hebridean hostel, which consists of two converted crofts where, for about £20 a night for a bunk, you will be staying in one of the most peaceful locations in the world.
Nik Fernee

Quiet beauty in Montenegro

In autumn I visited Durmitor national park in northern Montenegro, a quiet and beautiful place in the Dinaric Alps. The road there passed through thick pine forests and opened on to wide valleys surrounded by tall, rocky mountains. I walked to the Black Lake (Crno Jezero), where the water was so still it perfectly reflected the autumn colours of the trees. In the hills, shepherds looked after their sheep, and small villages sold fresh cheese and honey. I also gazed down into Tara River canyon, one of Europe’s deepest gorges, and right at the bottom, several thousand feet below me, I could see the bright turquoise ribbon of the river.
Lorna Walkden

A Unesco biosphere reserve near Barcelona

Just 40 miles from Barcelona lies a Unesco biosphere reserve, its peaks more than a thousand feet higher than Ben Nevis. The Montseny massif’s thick Mediterranean oak forests rise on all sides as you follow the single road threading its way up the horseshoe-shaped valley. About halfway up is the village of Montseny itself. Stop for a hike on any of the trails, followed by an ice-cream at Can Manel, a small bar with a big terrace and enormous views.
Leo

Croatia’s Mljet island is not for the jet set

It’s only a few miles off the coast of Dubrovnik and its cruise-ship crowds, but Mljet feels like another world. Pine forests dip into turquoise bays, an ancient monastery sits on a tiny islet in the middle of a lake, and there’s hardly a sound beyond cicadas and the wind. I stayed in a simple family-run cottage just outside the national park, where evenings meant grilled fish on the terrace and nights under skies thick with stars. Days were spent kayaking across mirror-still water and walking through pine-scented trails where I rarely met another soul. It felt like stepping into a corner of Europe the 21st century has politely passed by.
Mark Adamson

The Romanian delta ‘on the edge of the world’

The Danube delta marks the eastern frontier of the EU and feels like the edge of the world. Accessible by boat from the port of Tulcea, it is one of Europe’s largest and most vital wetland ecosystems and is full of wildlife. We stayed at the Delta Boutique & Carmen Silva Resort in Crișan, an old working fishing village where tranquil evenings are broken only by the lively chorus of frogs. Guided boat safaris can be arranged via the hotel.
Josh

FAMILY HOLIDAYS

All aboard in the Netherlands

Our favourite family holiday was to the Netherlands: taking turns playing captain and guiding electric hire boats on canals; tilting our ice-cream cones at windmills at Zaanse Schans; cycling to the broad, clean beaches and cabanas; Amsterdam for the colourful Pride parade and counterpointed by a calming visit to De Poezenboot (which teen could resist a cat sanctuary on a canal boat?). And staying in Haarlem in an apartment with speedy wifi kept the teens happy while we indulged in morning strolls through medieval cobbled streets to Grote Markt for coffee and people-watching.
Annette

An Italian castle at hostel prices

When I saw the picture of Ostello il Castello di Santa Severa in the Guardian in 2019, I thought it was too good to be true, but it’s genuine. We have been twice with our teens, and sent friends too!A mile-long beach where teenagers can roam and paddleboard, an easy train journey to explore Rome, lunchtime pizza slices with locals cheering on the footie at L’Angolo delle Crepes. Plus the opportunity to sleep in a castle at hostel prices. Fluffy white towels aplenty, and a gleaming kitchen if you want to cook.Don’t miss the nearby necropolis for an Indiana Jones-style adventure. Fireworks over the castle and a hilarious Italian Beatles cover band were the ciliegina sulla torta!
Margaret

Making a splash in Austria’s lake district

Salzkammergut is the Austrian lake district. Lush meadows, forests and blue-green lakes make for endless days of swimming, biking and lying in the sun. Wolfgangsee has well-marked bike trails and opportunities to swim, alongside cafes serving delicious Kaiserschmarrn (fluffy pancakes) and schnitzel. Nearby Fuschlsee has an incredible water park right by the lake: swimming pools, slides and plenty of quiet water in which to swim. We stayed in the newly renovated Feichtingerbauer, which offers complimentary access to the Fuschlseebad.
Neha

Slovenia’s raft of adventure activities

We started in Lake Bled. Our teens loved the Dolinka ziplines, the summer toboggan run, hiking in Vintgar gorge and swimming in the lake. You can hire paddleboards and boats. If you have the money, there is rafting and canyoning too. After seeing the incredible Postojna cave, we went up the Vogel cable by Lake Bohinj. Half-board at the Bohinj Eco hotel kept us all amply fed and it also has an aquapark, bowling and plenty of games to boot. We finished the trip off with shopping in Ljubljana and the best ice-cream ever at Romantika.
Sue

Family-friendly camping in Pays de Loire, France

I am a solo parent, and Le Domaine du Clarys on the west coast of France has been our annual retreat since my daughter was three. The static caravans with decking offer a comfortable blend of camping and convenience. The parks, water slides and vibrant kids’ club activities provide endless fun for my daughter while I savour a few precious hours of calm or hire a bike to explore nearby towns such as Saint Jean de Monts. With friendly fellow travellers, it’s the perfect safe escape for a female adventurer.
Paula

Laurie Lee inspired us to walk the Cotswold Way

After a family reading of Laurie Lee’s As I Walked Out One Midsummer Morning, my husband and I decided our two teens were ready for a walking holiday in the Cotswolds. We set out on the Cotswold Way with backpacks and a tent, starting just outside lively Chipping Campden and ending in Bath. Mobiles were limited to an hour in the evening and we did 10 miles a day – covering the walk in 10 days. We felt part of a community of walkers as fellow hikers greeted us and shared drinks and tips along the way. We returned fitter, more together and happier than when we set out.
Ann

Oompah bands and cable cars in Bavaria

A two-centre holiday to Munich and Garmisch-Partenkirchen in Bavaria is a must with teenagers as there is so much to see and do. In Munich they loved the atmosphere in the beer halls – eating pretzels and listening to the oompah band and watching the Rathaus-Glockenspiel in the square. A visit to the Olympiapark is also recommended. In Garmisch-Partenkirchen there is a toboggan run, which is great fun, and nearby is the beautiful Zugspitze mountain and cable car, with boating on Eibsee lake.
Richard Watkins

UNDER THE RADAR CITY BREAKS

Olomouc, Czech Republic

Olomouc is an utter delight. Gleaming spires and domes, two old town squares, enchanting cobbled lanes, trams and its own astronomical clock. It also has a Unesco-recognised holy trinity column, which was built to mark the end of a plague in the early 18th century. It’s a two-hour train ride from Prague but markedly less touristy. Two great places to enjoy a beer were Saint Venceslav’s brewery, where there is a beer spa with a sauna scented with hops, and Twinburg, next to the Moravian cycle path, which serves delicious craft ales. I felt that this city had been put on Earth specially for me.
Jack Anderton

City under the volcano, Sicily

A city brimming with life, Catania is a foodie haven and a great base to explore the island from. Home to arancini (deep fried rice balls) and cannoli (fried dough tubes filled with ricotta cheese), the city has incredible food experiences like the gelato from Don Peppinu and sweet treats from Pasticceria Savia. It is also within striking distance of Mount Etna, as well as beautiful coastal destinations such as Taormina and Syracuse.
George

Polar nights in Tromsø, Norway’s ‘Arctic capital’

As a Scot who once sought drawn-out summer nights, I now lean into the opposite with fervour. Winter in Tromsø – the “Arctic capital” – is for travellers who embrace long, dark nights and are keen to meddle with their circadian rhythms. The polar night, when the sun doesn’t rise above the horizon, starts at the end of November and finishes in mid-January. Experience this unworldly extended twilight – the blue hour – from about 9am to 2pm. The Fjellheisen cable car and silent whale-watching with Brim Explorer are two recommended activities.
Aimee Lawrence

Wrocław, Poland’s buzzy student city

Wrocław has the perfect mix of quirkiness and beauty to make for a cracking, affordable city break. The hefty student population gives the city a real buzz, from the boat and beach bars along the River Oder (try Forma Płynna beach bar), to the delicious Georgian bakeries (stop at Piekarnia Gruzińska PURI for pastries on the way to checking out the painted backyards of the Nadodrze neighbourhood). While tourists concentrate around the huge central square, exploring the edge of the old town reaps rewards, like Pub Drukarnia (delicious Litovel Czech beer) or Stacja Breslau bistro under the rail arches on Wojciecha Bogusławskiego street.
Matt Lunt

Explore Jaén’s castles and cathedral

The city and the province of Jaén in Andalucía, Spain, can be overlooked by those heading to nearby Granada or Córdoba. That’s a shame, given that they are filled with Renaissance architecture, including a magnificent cathedral, and are renowned as a home of olive oil. Historically it held immense strategic importance due to its position between Christian Castilla and Muslim Granada, and it is surrounded by castles. I recommend staying at the Parador de Jaén, which sits at the top of the hill of Santa Catalina next to the castle. The views from its rooms towards the Sierra Morena mountains are unparalleled.
Felix

Leiden, a mini-Amsterdam with a buzz

Leiden – between the Hook of Holland and Amsterdam – is a fantastic destination easily reached by ferry from the UK. It offers everything Amsterdam does but on a smaller scale and has great places to stay, eat and enjoy. The mainly pedestrianised and historic town centre is beautiful, with a fantastic Saturday market along the canals. The large student population helps keep the city lively all year round.
Ruud Jansen Venneboer

WONDERS WORTH TRAVELLING FOR

Ghosts of Knidos in south-west Turkey

We’ve only ever reached the ancient Greek city of Knidos by sea, dropping anchor by the silted harbour that once sheltered a fleet of triremes (ancient war galleys). At night, when the few tourists who come here have gone, the toga-wrapped ghosts return. From our boat, we could feel them, roaming the mile upon mile of steep, ruined streets and collapsed temples; rising up out of the sea 30 miles west of modern Datça, to haunt the vast, crumbling metropolis which grew rich on sea trade before earthquakes and war returned it to dust and the crickets. Magnificent.
Kay Jones

Gaelic island gem in County Kerry, Ireland

The sixth-century monastery and its tiny garden on top of Skellig Michael is an extraordinary place. The wind can howl up the sides of this mountain island, but climb the rocky stairs to the collection of ancient stone domed huts in the small depression on top and it is out of this world.
Chris

Well worth its salt, Kraków

The Wieliczka salt mine just outside Kraków is an architectural masterpiece and a Unesco world heritage site steeped in the history of the feudal salt trade. The shafts reach to more than 320 metres underground (the tourist route takes you to about 135 metres). Here you will find a cathedral etched into the salt and stone. With underground lakes, narrow corridors and guides who aren’t afraid to let you know how deep beneath the Earth’s surface you are, this amazing place isn’t for the fainthearted.
Joe

Images from prehistory in Morocco

Along a bumpy road, behind the little village of Aït Ouazik, near Tazzarine, more than 300 prehistoric petroglyphs of elephants, rhino, giraffe, ostrich and more are carved into rocks atop a cliff-ringed hilltop. The exquisite depictions are impressive enough, and although the intent of the artists must be left to your imagination, you will leave with a sense of connection to the past and a people who gathered here 5,000 years ago, exchanging stories and recording the wonders they had encountered.
George Joy

Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, ‘the river that runs in the sky’

Thomas Telford’s Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is the centrepiece of a world heritage site that crosses three counties and two countries. There is a magic to standing halfway across “the river that runs in the sky”, looking down on the tumbling River Dee and Horseshoe Falls reservoir, the water Telford drew for his impossible canal project. Rather than a chain of locks cut across the valley, his iron trough spans it, joints sealed with red Welsh flannel dipped in boiling sugar. Opened in 1805, it is the highest, longest aqueduct in Britain.
Fiona Collins

Pitch amid the pines of Parnassus, Greece

Arrive at Delphi Camping at night and pitch your tent under a sky the colour of dark wine among the pines of Mount Parnassus, haunt of the gods. The Kanatas family serve pine-scented retsina wine and slabs of creamy goat’s cheese, generously doused in oil harvested from their ancient olive groves. Awake at dawn and wander a dusty mountainside path to the archaeological sites, catching a glimpse of the temples through the trees. Return for an early dip in the campsite pool, perched above the Gulf of Corinth, 300 metres below.
Emma

Uzbekistan’s magical minaret

Standing proud in the heart of the silk roads city of Bukhara, the Kalyan Minaret exudes power and mystery in equal measure. Its beauty lies in the ornate brickwork arches and intricate geometric patterns that adorn its gently tapering body. So striking was this minaret that it was the only structure left unmolested by the Mongol warlord Genghis Khan, who reportedly could not bear to see it destroyed with the rest of the city. At night it is lit up and acts as a beacon, drawing locals and travellers alike to bask in its presence.
Carl Sucharyna Thomas

ACTIVE BREAKS
Local flavour on a trek in the Italian Alps

We completed three weeks of the Grande Traversata delle Alpi, a 500-mile trek in the Italian Alps. It was conceived as an economic regeneration project in the 1970s to join up and provide tourism to tiny villages with ageing populations and declining industry. In each location, one or more providers elects to supply accommodation and food to hikers; as a result the variety in our stays was immense. It cost €60-70pp pn half-board, sometimes less in dormitories. It’s a very quiet trail compared with many in the Alps, and we often had it to ourselves. Villagers are friendly and we enjoyed delicious local food, always at least three courses, with vegetarians fully catered for.
Samantha McGrady

Sailing on the Norfolk Broads

Hunter’s Yard in Ludham looks after a fleet of 1930s cabin yachts and day boats, some now with electric motors. Beautifully maintained and easy to sail, they provide a restful, beautiful holiday. Away from the popular spots, the Norfolk Broads remain wild and full of birds and animals. Go to your bunk early, with the sound of water, ducks and rigging. Get up early and sail past the sleeping gin palaces. Moor up early near a pub for your evening drinks. Hunter’s Yard staff are friendly and happy to advise; I’ll never forget the smell of wood and varnish in their workshops.
Rupert

Scaling the heights in a hidden Asturias valley

The Meicín hostel in Asturias, on the border with the ancient kingdom of León, is surrounded by jagged mountains, wild ponies and, if you’re lucky, bears. Climb Picos del Fontán (2,414 metres) and you’ll be unlikely to encounter any other hikers as you walk through a hidden valley and year-round snowfields. Peña Ubiña, after which the national park is named, has views south to the Castilian plains, and north to the far busier Picos de Europa. The hostel offers full board in dorms, and you can hike or taxi to it from the high-speed station, Pola de Lena, which connects with Gijón on the Asturian coast.
Robert Graham

Horse riding in the Welsh borders

We return to Freerein Riding Holidays in Clyro (Cleirwy), Powys, every year. It’s a fantastic way to view the Welsh countryside; you can self-guide with the maps and instructions provided or go with an experienced guide. Everything is included, including your meals and stays in beautiful country inns or guesthouses.
Vanessa Jones

An idyllic campsite in Provence

Camping du Montdenier is an idyllic, isolated spot in the mountains just above the Gorges du Verdon. You can spend days relaxing in the surrounding hills and lavender fields, or take advantage of the mountain biking, horse riding and paragliding on offer near the site. When you fancy a bit more life, take a trip down to one of the restaurants in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, a beautiful village that sits beneath limestone cliffs and is famous for its pottery. For the more adventurous, Verdon is the birthplace of sport climbing, or you can stay closer to the ground on a day trip canoeing down the gorge.
Lucy

Hiking and hospitality in Albania

My partner and I had a magical time in the northern Albanian mountains. From Shkodër, we made our way to the Valbona valley national park via a two-night stay on (and boat across) Lake Koman. Once in Valbona, we embarked on a series of spectacular hikes, including a three-day circular to Çerem. The first two days we saw no one apart from shepherds – and a few vipers. The views were breathtaking, the hospitality welcoming, and the experience incomparable.
Alex

Running wild in Argyll and Bute

We had an unforgettable experience at regenerative Auchgoyle Farm on Scotland’s west coast. The running trails were adventurous and exciting, leading us through ancient woodland, across beaches and over hills.The wildlife and landscape were further brought to life by hosts Katharine and David’s infectious passion for – and knowledge of – their local environment. Between runs, we were rejuvenated with delicious home-cooked meals in the stunning farmhouse, and activities including yoga, wild swimming, a wood-fired sauna, art class and coffee tasting. We left feeling inspired, recharged and nourished by nature.
Kate

Twinkling lights in Poland’s Tatra mountains

Zakopane is a great base for skiers and anyone who enjoys winter mountain activities. It’s affordable (my chalet was just €400 for the week) and has lovely traditional wooden and stone houses, cafes and cheap restaurants serving tasty Polish stews and pierogis (filled dumplings), which kept us warm throughout. We hired snow shoes to explore the foothills by day, and at dusk the twinkling lights of the mountain villages came on, adding to the wonderful scene of lakes, mountains and forests. We also enjoyed sleigh rides and husky-driven carriages through the silent forests to magical Snowlandia ice maze (open mid-January to mid-March).
Yasmin

Guardian Travel runs a weekly readers’ tips competition. The winner receives a £200 voucher for a Coolstays break

Leroy Rosenior, Liam’s father, played for the likes of Fulham, West Ham and Queens Park Rangers, and his managerial career peaked with a five-month stint at then-League One side Brentford in 2006.

In 2019 he was awarded an MBE in the 2019 New Year Honours for his services to tackling discrimination in football and wider society.

When Rosenior Jr retired from playing he followed his father’s footsteps. He began writing a column for The Guardian, where in 2017 he acknowledged the under-representation of black coaches. He highlighted that race does not influence ability and said opportunities should be given on merit.

He also made a point he would repeat: that vast under-representation leads to misunderstandings of players from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds.

In a podcast with The Athletic FC, Rosenior highlighted how his star striker, Emmanuel Emegha, was labelled “difficult” and “emotional”, but said he understood the Netherlands international with Nigerian parentage. Emegha is set to join him in moving from Strasbourg to Chelsea in July.

In further Guardian columns, Rosenior also admitted he was “ashamed” to hear an unnamed coach make a homophobic slur when he was a player. He pledged his support for the Premier League’s Rainbow Laces campaign and wrote an open letter to Donald Trump during his first US presidency, accusing him of “blatant” racism.

Rosenior has since made his name as a manager – first at Hull City, then Strasbourg – and Wayne Rooney said this week he was “as good a coach as I’ve ever worked with” following their time together at Derby County.

Rosenior said his farewells at Strasbourg on Tuesday morning before signing a six‑and‑a‑half‑year contract at Chelsea.

The Blues had the Premier League’s first black manager in Gullit and the first black captain in Paul Elliott.

Elliott has since worked in multiple senior positions, including the FA’s diversity and inclusion board, and is now the vice-chairman at Charlton Athletic – who Chelsea play in the FA Cup third round on Sunday.

“Liam, in my opinion, represents everything that was right about the 21st century,” Elliott said.

“He has been an outstanding player, very articulate, hugely intelligent, and you can see that whatever he did – whether as a manager or technical director – he was really cognizant of the game.

“Whatever he did, I knew he would be a success. His passion was to forge a career in football management. He speaks in a way I hadn’t heard from many people – you felt you were learning.

“It sends out a strong, positive message to current and future generations – that people of colour who look like Liam can go to the very top and be at the cutting edge of football management.

“But let’s not forget – he’s there on merit. He’s there on talent.”

Good Morning Britain host says she’s ‘more than happy’ with the ITV breakfast show’s new set as viewers slam the ‘small’ and ‘cramped’ studio

ITV Good Morning Britain presenter Susanna Reid has responded to criticism that the breakfast programme’s revamped studio appears “cramped” after viewers flocked to social media to voice concerns about the reduced space.

The programme made its comeback on Monday (January 5) for its inaugural 2026 broadcast, showcasing a completely refreshed appearance.

The flagship morning programme has been extended by half an hour, whilst Lorraine has been shortened by 30 minutes following a scheduling overhaul that was revealed in May 2025.

As part of these alterations, production has relocated from ITV‘s studios to ITN’s headquarters in Central London, with other daytime programmes now being recorded at The H Club in Covent Garden.

The redesigned studio arrangement positioned Susanna and co-presenter Ed Balls in much closer proximity to their guests than previously, including Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch, reports the Express.

Nevertheless, Susanna appears unbothered by the more compact setting and took to X to share coverage of the changes whilst voicing her enthusiasm. “@gmb studio = big headlines! More than happy to be closer to our brilliant guests…,” she posted.

Her message followed viewers taking to X to criticise the fresh appearance, with one commenting: “ITV cuts showing in the new set. So small, looks cheap and people sitting on top of each other.”

Another commented: “The problem with the smaller studio is when there are four people at the desk, everyone leans outwards when speaking to look directly at those around them. Unfortunately, in a single camera shot, it looks like we are constantly looking at human leaning towers.”

A third viewer added their two pence: “It’s too small a table. Preferred the other one. You’re all on top of each other.”

Another chimed in with: “Sorry, but not a fan of the new set. It looks really small and cramped, and the London skyline behind where you sit looks like a very bad print. It used to look like a decent photograph.”

The last episode from the old studio aired on New Year’s Eve, leaving the presenters and crew emotional as they bid farewell to the familiar set. The move resulted in at least 220 job losses as part of cost-cutting measures.

Susanna Reid took to Instagram later that day to commemorate the moment, expressing her gratitude to those who weren’t making the transition with them.

Sharing a series of snaps, including a group photo of the entire team before the set was taken apart, she penned: “NEW YEAR’S EVE! A fabulous gathering of the BEST team in television @gmb and a farewell to those off to new adventures..

“I’ll be back in January in our new home. Goodbye to those leaving and a huge thank you to everyone who has made – and those who continue to make – GMB such a fantastic programme – and to Television Centre for being our home for the past few years.”

Good Morning Britain airs weekdays from 6am on ITV1 and ITVX.

GORDON Ramsay has broken his silence on his ‘fiery’ wedding speech in his first interview since daughter Holly’s wedding ceremony to Adam Peaty.

The TV chef appeared alongside his daughter Tilly on ITV‘s This Morning as he discussed the highly-publicised Bath Abbey ceremony for the first time.

Gordon had raised eyebrows as he appeared to make a thinly-veiled dig at Adam’s ongoing family feud when he delivered a wedding speech during the nighttime celebrations.

But the star has insisted his speech was “perfect” despite courting controversy.

When asked by Cat Deeley about preparing his speech, Gordon said: “Being a dad of three daughters, you dream of that moment.

“I was a hot mess but the speech was perfect, it went well.

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“You’ve got to be warm and emotional but it was a tough gig.”

Elsewhere, Tilly had her say on the wedding and also called it “perfect” despite Adam’s family largely not attending.

Only his sister Bethany was present with his heartbroken mum Caroline banned from the Abbey amid a huge fallout with Adam and being left hurt after Holly refused to invite her to her hen-do with her A-list pals, including Victoria Beckham.

Speaking on the daytime show, Tilly added: “It was so emotional but so incredible to see her and Adam so happy. It was a big day for all of us.”

She also admitted she checked Gordon’s speech on Christmas Eve and confessed “no tweaks were needed” before confirming: “It made everybody cry.”

Gordon further revealed his “shock” at Holly’s decision to wear Tana’s wedding dress for a section of the reception saying: “It was a shock as she had it on for the majority of the night but I don’t know why she needed to change three times!”

The chef was alluding to her multiple dress changes for the big day – with the star wearing three gowns in total.

In Gordon’s speech he was understood to be heard saying his wife Tana “will be a good mum to them both,” amid the fallout.

Ramsay, 59, gushed at how beautiful Holly looked and told Adam he was a “lucky man”, adding: “Look at Tana and that’s what you have to look forward to.” 

And in a sly dig at Adam’s absent parents he told Holly, 25: “Shame you don’t have the same.” 

Adam’s feud with mum Caroline, 60, exploded last month after she was not invited to Holly’s hen do.  

Last night a Peaty family source hit back at Gordon’s speech saying: “It just goes to show that this was the Ramsays’ plan all along.”  

Adam hailed the 200 guests’ support in a “difficult time”. Sister Beth, 32, was his only family at the service, maid of honour with Holly’s sisters Megan, 27, and Tilly, 24. 

Adam’s mum, dad Mark, 65, and brothers James and Richard stayed at home in Staffordshire. 

The separatist Southern Transitional Council accuses Saudi Arabia of bombing its forces near the border.

The Channel 4 reality show was back with a Christmas special, and one star was left emotional within minutes of the episode starting

Gogglebox star Andrew Nicolls was left crying as his husband shared a sweet gesture during the latest episode of the Channel 4 show.

On New Year’s Day, the much-loved armchair critics were back to share more of their insightful and passionate takes on the festive season’s biggest and best shows.

As the festive special kicked off, Alfie Mulhall re-created an iconic scene from the Christmas classic movie Love Actually.

He held up a set of cards that had sweet messages written on them for his husband, Andrew, which included the words: “And people think you’re my father,” and “Happy Christmas, I Love You.” Andrew asked Alfie, “What are you doing?” as his husband instructed him to sit down.

As Alfie showed Andrew his written messages, Andrew started to get emotional, exclaiming, “Oh, my god, I really love Love Actually,” while wiping away tears.

Alfie, who is 30 years younger than Andrew, replied, “Merry Christmas,” as the pair then laughed.

The couple, hailing from the Cotswolds, represent one of numerous fresh households that have become part of the Channel 4 programme.

Despite their recent arrival, Andrew and Alfie have struck a chord with viewers, courtesy of their sharp observations and cheeky banter between themselves.

Away from Gogglebox, Alfie and Andrew frequently post lifestyle updates on Instagram, featuring holiday photos, personal achievements, pets, and family announcements.

On Sunday (December 21), Andrew took to Instagram to share his happiness after finding love with Alfie when he was aged 60.

During a montage of sweet snaps, the couple can be seen enjoying each other’s company during various special moments.

In one photo, Andrew and Alfie are seen standing side by side in front of the city skyline, beaming with happiness. In another, Andrew kisses his husband lovingly on the cheek as they spend time at the beach.

Andrew wrote in the caption: “I was 60 when I thought my love story was over…Then THIS happened (love heart).”

The couple were met with an outpouring of support, with one person saying: “Love always wins, my friend, and it sometimes is just around the corner – so happy for you both.”

A second stated: “Two beautiful men, one beautiful couple!”, while a third chimed in: “I’ve got a big age gap with my boyfriend, so seeing you guys represent it on TV is so lovely!”

“How flippin’ lovely is this, gorgeous couple and my favourite goggleboxers, have a fabulous Christmas xx”, gushed one follower as another stated: “Love you two, my favs on gogglebox xx.”

Andrew and Alfie, who have a 30-year age difference, tied the knot in May 2024. They exchanged vows at a beautiful destination wedding in Italy, surrounded by their loved ones.

Gogglebox is available to catch up on Channel.com

From EU border fingerprint checks to new visa waivers and tourist taxes, British holidaymakers face major changes in 2026. Here are some of the most important ones you need to know about before you jet off

The world of travel is constantly changing, with alterations to airport regulations, tourism restrictions, and new paperwork to complete. These changes can often leave holidaymakers scratching their heads, unsure of how they’ll be affected or what steps they need to take.

The upcoming year promises a wave of significant changes, particularly for Brits traveling to or from the EU. The potential requirement for a visa waiver is on the horizon, and the new entry and exit system is likely to be implemented this year, reports the Express.

But what does this mean for the average holidaymaker? And what do Brits need to sort out before they set off? Here’s a breakdown of some of the changes you need to keep an eye on if you have a trip booked.

EU Entry/Exit System (EES)

After numerous delays, the Entry/Exit System (EES) finally got off the ground in October. This means anyone from outside the Schengen Area, including Brits, will have to provide fingerprints and a facial image at the border when entering EU countries.

This initiative aims to phase out manual passport stamps and make it easier to monitor tourists who overstay their welcome. However, the roll-out of the system has hit a number of snags.

For instance, the Port of Dover was initially set to start using EES in October for car passengers, but this was pushed back to early 2026 to prevent delays over the busy festive season. Not all EU airports have the system up and running yet, so if you’re planning to travel early next year, your experience may differ.

The deadline for full implementation across all Schengen members, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland, is set for 10 April 2026. Once operational, travellers won’t need to do anything beforehand, but there may be lengthier airport queues as people adjust to the new system.

ETIAS – EU Visas

ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is a new visa waiver programme for exempt visitors making trips to the EU. It’s similar to the United States’ ESTA, and the procedure will be largely the same.

Once implemented, Brits planning an EU holiday will need to complete an ETIAS application, which is a pre-screening that permits you to enter the Schengen Area without a visa.

The downside is that the visa will cost €7 per person (roughly £6.10). However, once approved, the ETIAS will remain valid for three years or until your passport expires, whichever happens first.

Currently, no launch date has been declared on the official ETIAS website, but it’s advisable to stay alert for any updates. The launch date for ETIAS has already been postponed several times, and while it’s presently set for Q4 of 2026, which is October, there could still be delays in rolling out the system.

As with any travel visa or application, only use the official ETIAS website for applications and steer clear of third-party sites.

Brits face bigger bills on arrival

Overtourism has consistently made the news throughout 2025, and Brits travelling to certain countries might be caught off guard by unforeseen additional costs.

An increasing number of destinations are implementing tourist taxes, and while these are typically minor nightly fees, they can quickly accumulate for extended stays or larger groups. English mayors are also set to be given the authority to impose tourist taxes, meaning even staycations could come with added expenses.

New tourist taxes set to begin in 2026 include Edinburgh, where a 5% surcharge will be added to hotel bills from July, and Thailand, which will levy a 300 baht fee (approximately £7) on air passengers.

Brits heading abroad might also discover they’re charged more than locals to visit popular sites. A recent case in point is the Louvre in Paris, which announced that from early 2026, EEA residents will be charged €22 for entry, roughly £19.15, whereas those from outside the EEA, including Brits, will be hit with a €32 admission fee (around £27.86).

U.S. National Parks are set to introduce a two-tier pricing system for American citizens and tourists, with the latter being hit with an additional $100 fee on top of standard charges to gain entry into popular parks such as the Grand Canyon and Yellowstone. This surcharge can be applied per person or per vehicle, depending on the park’s policy.

For instance, a family visiting the Grand Canyon typically pays $35 (roughly £25.87) for a private car. However, under the new rules for non-Americans, this will skyrocket to a staggering $135, meaning visitors could pay just under £100 to simply pass through the gates.

Changes to liquid rules

Air travellers should stay up-to-date with any changes to liquid rules at their departure and destination airports, as the 100ml rule is often subject to change and has even been scrapped in some places due to advancements in technology.

At Birmingham, Gatwick, and Edinburgh airports, passengers can now carry up to two litres of liquids in their hand luggage, thanks to enhanced scanning technology. Meanwhile, at Luton Airport, while the 100ml rule remains in effect, there’s no longer a requirement to remove liquids from your hand luggage. This means the small plastic bag is no longer necessary; you can simply place your luggage in the scanner.

However, it’s important to remember that the regulations at your destination may differ. So, if you bring a two-litre bottle from the UK in your hand luggage, it might need to be stowed in a checked bag for your return journey.

Tightening of smoking and vaping bans

Several Spanish holiday hotspots favoured by Brits are considering imposing stricter regulations on smoking and vaping in public areas. In certain tourist hotspots like Barcelona and the Balearic Islands, puffing away on a cigarette or vape is already prohibited on beaches, while some Canaries’ beaches have been declared ‘clean-air zones’.

However, new proposals set to potentially take effect in 2026 could see a total ban on smoking and vaping in various outdoor spaces, including beaches and bar terraces throughout Spain, with immediate fines for those flouting the rules. In the Canary Islands, penalties for violating anti-smoking laws currently range from €30 to €2,000 (approximately £26 to £1,730), so it’s anticipated that similar fines would accompany the new regulations.

Crackdowns on unruly passengers

A recently enacted law in France, which may soon be replicated across other EU nations, is set to clamp down hard on disruptive behaviour among air passengers.

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Starting from November, passengers traversing French airspace who commit offences such as using an electronic device when forbidden, hindering flight crew, or failing to adhere to safety instructions, will face hefty fines of up to €10,000 and flight bans lasting up to four years. For repeat offenders, fines can soar to €20,000, serving as a stern reminder for passengers to maintain decorum when flying over France.

The French Civil Aviation Authority will maintain a database of misconduct, enabling French airlines to report troublesome passengers and identify habitual offenders.

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

WITH its vast skies, golden sand and rippling dunes, the Lincolnshire coastline is brimming with brilliant beaches.

Of course, you’ve got traditional seaside towns with piers, promenades and bucket-and-spade fun, such as Skegness, Mablethorpe and Cleethorpes.

These are also often the best-rated options thanks to their family-friendly touches and scenic beauty – but there’s plenty more to explore. 

If you’re looking to escape the crowds, do some birdwatching or walk your dog, there’s a beach with your name on it.

You’ll also find beachside pubs, nature reserves and quirky art installations along Lincolnshire’s more than 50-mile stretch of coast.

So the hardest question on your next £9.50 Holiday will be: which beach should you visit first? 

We’ve spoken to local experts and Sun readers who have already enjoyed a £9.50 Holiday near the Lincolnshire coastline to get their recommendations for the best beaches to visit.

We’ve also selected some of the county’s top-rated options and suggested our own pick of where not to miss.

So grab your buckets and spades, binoculars or swimsuit and head to one of these… 

Best for families

With its traditional English seaside feel, Mablethorpe Beach is a beautiful, Blue Flag award-winning beach.

Its soft golden sand stretches as far as the eye can see, offering endless sandcastle-building potential.

You’ve also got donkey rides on the sand, plus a fairground nearby and beachfront cafes like the highly-rated Snack Shack selling everything from fish and chips to ice cream.

There’s even a little land train that takes you up and down the coast for £2.

Sun reader Linda McDonnell, 71, from Lincoln, says Mablethorpe is an “unbelievable” beach, especially on a sunny day, adding that it is “nice and safe” for families.

She also says not to miss the Time and Tide Bell – a sculpture on the sand with bells that are rung by the waves at high tide. “It’s great if you’re into quirky things,” she added.

Best for wave watching – or wave riding 

Alex Trembath, creator of the Lincoln and Beyond blog, says: “The Lincolnshire coastline is one of the UK’s most underrated beach destinations.

“Skegness used to have a reputation for being a tacky resort town, but these days it has clean, Blue Flag beaches and you can always find a quieter spot if you want.

“My personal favourite beach is Huttoft (south of Mablethorpe). It’s quieter than Skegness and Mablethorpe and is great for surfing and swimming.

“It also has a large car terrace for wave watching whatever the weather.”

There have been an increasing number of wave riders in Lincolnshire since the seventies, with Sutton on Sea, Sandilands and Huttoft, being popular surf spots, especially in winter. 

Best hidden beaches

Daniel Start is the author of Hidden Beaches Britain by Wild Things Publishing (£16.99), which features over 500 hidden coastal locations.

He recommends Anderby Creek, around ten miles north of Skegness, describing it as “a perfect hidden beach with endless golden sands backed with dunes and with very few people.”

While there, you can even check out Britain’s first official cloud-spotting station, complete with parabolic mirrors, roof-top loungers and a “cloud bar” menu. 

Best for nature lovers

Nature lovers can take their pick of beaches packed with wildlife and natural attractions in Lincolnshire.

A few miles south of Skegness, Gibraltar Point is a nature reserve right on the seafront – with more wildlife than human visitors.

Daniel Start says: “There are dunes and wildflower meadows galore at the exotically-named Gibraltar Point.

“Flocks of migrating birds also gather here – up to 10,000 dunlins at a time may break from their migration, descending from the clouds.

“The sea here is shallow but when you run out through the breakers – the huge expanse of the Wash to the south, dunes and meadows behind – you’re reminded of the immensity of nature and the vast tracts of open space still left in Britain.”

Travel north for around 40 minutes up the coast, and you’ll enter the Lincolnshire Coastal Country Park, a five-mile stretch of coastline from Sandilands to Chapel St Leonards.

Sandilands is a good place to start, with coastal birds to spot, weekly walks to join and a National Trust cafe to refuel in. 

Best beach with a pub

You can’t get much closer to the beach than the Admiral Benbow, which is a quirky pub right on the sand at Chapel St Leonards.

Named after the inn in the book Treasure Island, it has a fun, nautical pirate theme that extends to the outdoor seating area – located inside a wooden boat on the beach.

Sun reader John Ellis, 72, from Sheffield, has visited, and said: “It has a fun atmosphere”.

Meanwhile, head north up the coast to Sutton on Sea, where the highly-rated Beach Bar has great sea views and serves good value food, like seafood and beef wellington. 

Best for dogs

Sarah Al-Aidi, General Manager at Southview Holiday Park, said: “There’s a dog-friendly stretch of beach with free council parking that not many people know about.

“It’s at the end of Skegness – about a good five-mile stretch all the way past Ingoldmells and up to Chapel St Leonards, which is all dog-friendly all year long.

“The rest of the beaches are all restricted for dogs in the summer.”

Joanne Green, General Manager at Sunnydale Holiday Park also has a lesser-known dog-walking route to suggest.

She said: “As you come out of our park, turn left and you’re on the salt marshes, which are brilliant for walking dogs.

“People don’t tend to go there because they get to the top of the ramp and they see just salt marshes.

“But if they walk for ten minutes towards the water, there’s a stunning beach with white sand called Saltfleet.

“There are usually not many people there and you can walk all the way to Mablethorpe along the beach from here if you want.”

NEW YORK — So much for East Coast gloating.

As New Yorkers watched California grapple with recall politics in recent months, many chortled over what they called democracy run amok. But now a controversy over ballot measures and voting procedures is giving the Big Apple its own electoral black eye — a case, some say, of democracy under wraps.

It started during the summer when Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg, a Republican in a heavily Democratic town, placed an initiative on the city’s Nov. 4 ballot that would ban partisan local elections. The mayor has contributed $2 million of his own money to pass the measure, which would reduce the traditional clout of the Democratic Party in New York City politics.

He also took steps to block voters from considering an initiative signed by 115,000 residents that would compel the city to form a commission on chronic overcrowding in public schools. Bloomberg, like other mayors before him, invoked a little-known state law that bars other initiatives from appearing on a municipal ballot once a charter-reform measure is placed on it.

New York’s powerful teachers union challenged the decision, saying the law was unconstitutional. But the state’s highest court upheld the exclusion last week, effectively killing the issue for next week’s election. In their arguments, city attorneys contended that voters might be confused by too many measures on a ballot at once.

“It’s as if we have no right to direct democracy here, and some people think we’re probably too stupid to focus on more than one issue at once,” said Wayne Barrett, a New York historian and journalist. “Those of us who believe in real democracy would have to say Californians are now way ahead of us. At least they’re alive out there.”

Unlike California, where disparate ballot measures seem to blossom each election season, the process of putting initiatives before voters is rarely seen in New York. But it’s not due to a lack of grass-roots energy. Activists have been complaining for years about the crucial “home rule” law, passed decades ago, which gives New York City mayors power to decide what will appear on a ballot.

Like other mayors, Bloomberg used the vehicle of a Charter Reform Commission to exercise these powers. He formed a panel this year to study the idea of banning partisan local elections — a move that would prevent candidates from running as the nominee of a particular party — and to no one’s surprise the panel voted to put the measure on the Nov. 4 ballot, along with two other city reform proposals.

Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani, who preceded Bloomberg, used a similar strategy in 1998. He formed a charter commission at a time when City Council leaders had backed a ballot initiative opposing Giuliani’s unpopular plan to build a new stadium in Manhattan for the New York Yankees. The panel placed several measures before voters, thus knocking the baseball measure off the municipal ballot.

“We should know by now that mayors will always use this charter commission strategy to control the ballot,” said Doug Israel, political director of the Citizens Union Foundation, an activist group that opposes Bloomberg’s nonpartisan proposal. “And what’s really undemocratic is that a mayor could spend unlimited amounts on a proposal, while keeping other initiative proposals away from New York City voters.”

Stung by criticism of his campaign for nonpartisan elections, Bloomberg told a news conference last week that he was determined to eliminate decades of party-based corruption at City Hall. He said nonpartisan elections would pave the way for more minority candidates, freeing them from the need to win party nominations.

“This has nothing to do about me,” he said, rejecting criticism of his willingness to devote huge amounts of personal funds to the campaign, as he did in spending $75 million to be elected mayor two years ago. “Nonpartisan elections is something I have believed in for a long time. We’ve seen scandal after scandal in the newspapers of party bosses taking away the public’s choice. And that’s not democracy.”

A Quinnipiac Poll released last week suggested that New Yorkers are evenly divided over the proposal. But 55% said the voting should be delayed because people have not had enough time to consider the measure; a majority of voters also told pollsters they were critical of Bloomberg spending his own money on the campaign.

To be sure, Democratic activists have also raised funds to fight the measure, and top party officials say Bloomberg’s proposal would hurt minority candidates, who have been heavily backed by New York’s Democratic organizations in past elections.

The mayor has also drawn fire from Randi Weingarten, president of the United Federation of Teachers, who backed the initiative on classroom size. She was incensed when Bloomberg argued that the teachers union — locked in bitter wage talks with the city — had mounted the grass-roots campaign as a “publicity stunt.”

Longtime city observers differ over the merits of nonpartisan elections and a move to regulate classroom size via the ballot. Some note, for example, that most of the nation’s largest cities — including Los Angeles and Chicago — have nonpartisan elections, and that these communities have elected African American mayors.

But many experts are troubled by New York’s long-standing barriers to getting initiatives on a ballot and say sweeping legislative changes are overdue.

“When activists tell me they want to put something on the local ballot, I tell them I hope they have a lot of money to spend on lawyers,” said Gene Russianoff, senior attorney for the New York Public Interest Group. “It’s a huge uphill battle here.”

One of the few success stories, he noted, came in 1993, when millionaire businessman Ron Lauter spent an estimated $150,000 on legal fees to overcome City Hall objections to a measure imposing term limits. The initiative eventually passed.

The main roadblocks seem to come from state legislators, who would have to pass any laws making it easier to put initiatives on city or state ballots. They have voiced long-standing opposition to California-style ballot measures, Russianoff said, because such proposals would so often create an end run around their power.

As the city’s ballot wrangling continues, many New Yorkers might agree on this much: For now at least, those California jokes don’t seem quite as funny.

“It doesn’t speak well for us here in New York City when 115,000 people can sign a petition to raise an issue and they can be so completely denied,” said veteran political consultant Hank Sheinkopf. “In California, they’d never stand for this.”

DRAGONS’ Den star Sara Davies has broken her silence on being invited to Adam Peaty and Holly Ramsay’s star-studded wedding.

The entrepreneur, 41, met Olympic swimmer Adam during their time competing on Strictly Come Dancing and has admitted they have stayed close ever since.

She’s now taken to Instagram to speak about the “emotional” big day as she hinted Adam teared up at seeing his new wife walk down the aisle at the plush Bath Abbey ceremony.

Alongside a collection of snaps of her and Adam from over the years, TV favourite Sara said: “Yesterday I had the privilege of being at this amazing man’s wedding – and it also gave me a moment to reflect on how lucky I’ve been to have him in my life over the past four years.

“From the first day we met on Strictly, we’ve been firm friends, and it was a real honour to sit in Bath Abbey and watch him get emotional as the love of his life walked down the aisle.”

Sara continued: “It was such a special day.

STRANGE ITEM

Adam Peaty wedding compared to ‘hospital appointment’ as guest complains

FAMILY WAR

Adam Peaty’s brother shares pic outside wedding venue with ominous soundtrack

“Simon and I had the best time, the service was beautiful – and I’m sure you’ll not be surprised to hear me say, it was hands down the best wedding food I’ve ever had.

“Wishing my wonderful friend and his gorgeous bride a lifetime of happiness together.”

Sara looked sensational as she strutted her way into the ceremony yesterday.

The business mogul wowed in a black and blue gown that featured lacy floral detailing.

One of the best dressed attendees at the event, Sara flashed a smile and waved to the crowds as she made her way inside the venue.

The big day was not without its controversy amid the ongoing family feud tearing the Peaty family apart.

Adam’s parents were absent from the big day after a feud erupted among the clan.

We revealed that Adam allegedly told dad Mark he could only attend if he sat at the back of Bath Abbey, where the lavish celebration took place.

But Mark declined, finding the offer insulting, and remained at home 150 miles away as Adam tied the knot.

The family was split last month after Caroline was not included at Holly’s hen do at the swanky Soho Farmhouse, Oxfordshire, and was subsequently uninvited from the wedding.

Holly’s mum Tana and close pal Victoria Beckham were both in attendance at the girly get together near to the Beckhams’ country home.

Caroline made her feelings clear earlier this month when she shared a cryptic post on Instagram that read: “This year, I met the most broken version of myself but also the strongest. 2026, get ready, because I’m coming back stronger than ever.”

The feud escalated when bride Holly called cops after Adam’s brother James allegedly made threats via text while Adam was on his stag do.

Adam was also branded “spiteful” this Christmas for failing to buy gifts for his parents or brothers.

ADAM Peaty’s dad Mark has broken cover and been seen for the first time since his son married Holly Ramsay yesterday.

The devastated dad and his wife Caroline were snubbed from the star-studded big day amid a bitter family feud.

We revealed that Adam allegedly told Mark he could only attend if he sat at the back of Bath Abbey, where the lavish celebration took place.

But Mark declined, finding the offer insulting, and remained at home 150 miles away as Adam tied the knot.

Today, he has been pictured walking his dog, worlds away from the glitz and glamour of his son’s big day.

Mark kicked on with his day-to-day duties, wearing an orange coat and beanie hat for the drizzly walk.

ICY MESSAGE

Adam Peaty ‘sent brutal text by aunt moments before marrying Holly Ramsay’

ROWS, VOWS & WOWS

Peaty’s dad ‘told he could attend wedding but would have to sit at back’

The family was split last month after Caroline was not included at Holly’s hen do at the swanky Soho Farmhouse, Oxfordshire, and was subsequently uninvited from the wedding.

Holly’s mum Tana and close pal Victoria Beckham were both in attendance at the girly get together near to the Beckhams’ country home.

Things escalated when Holly later called cops after Adam’s brother James allegedly made threats via text while Adam was on his stag do.

We reported last night how Adam had infuriated dad Mark with his church ultimatum.

It was in stark contrast to Adam’s sister Bethany, who was a maid of honour.

Our source said: “It was a difficult day for Caroline and Mark, so the family spent the evening together.

“Caroline got upset as soon as she saw the photographs from the wedding.

“For him to turn around and tell Beth that his dad could come and sit at the back of the church is awful.

“Mark was told he could sit behind plus-ones — who Adam has probably never even seen or spoken to.”

Meanwhile celeb guests like TV presenter Dan Walker, chef Marcus Wareing and the Beckhams arrived to much fanfare.

Adam reportedly received a stinging text from his estranged aunt Louise just moments before walking down the aisle, according to the Daily Mail.

She is said to have let him know her feelings with full force, telling him “shame on you both”.

Her text allegedly read: “I hope you never suffer the depth of pain you have put your mother through and despite it all she loves you still. Shame on you both. Shame.

“Remember on this, your happiest day, and on each anniversary of your happiest day, that you hurt your mum so deeply her soul screams.”

The sentiments were echoed by other family members, with Adam’s great aunt Janet, 73, telling the publication: “I just feel so sorry for Caroline.

“I can’t believe he’s done this to his mother who’s done so much for him from an early age. To be treated like this is not kind.”

The star’s swimming coach Melanie Marshall stepped in to deliver a reception speech, in place of his brothers.

Proud dad Gordon walked his daughter down the aisle. Mum Tana gave a reading.

Holly arrived nearly 30 minutes late, wearing a bridal cape over her Christmas-themed dress.

A large crowd of onlookers cheered the couple as they emerged before the pair were whisked off in a black Rolls-Royce to the reception at plush Kin House in Kington Langley, Wilts.

The maids of honour wore dresses designed by Victoria in red, while Tana wore a similar style dress in green.

Security was tight, with guests wearing wristbands embossed with H&A.

One invitee said: “It was a lovely day, but with the wristband it felt more like a hospital appointment.”

Guests were barred from taking snaps of the service.

Adam’s mum had intended to watch from the street, despite being disinvited, but decided against it.

Nikola Jokic recorded a 56-point triple-double and broke a record set by Steph Curry as the Denver Nuggets beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 142-138 on Christmas Day.

The Serb hit 56 points, recorded 16 rebounds and 15 assists – becoming the first player in NBA history to hit at least 55 points, 15 rebounds and 15 assists in a triple-double.

Three-time MVP Jokic hit 18 of his 56 points in overtime, breaking Curry’s record of 17 overtime points from 2016.

The Timberwolves took the game in Denver to overtime after clawing back a 15-point deficit in the final five minutes of the game.

Anthony Edwards top-scored for the Timberwolves with 44 points, including the game-tying three that took the game to overtime.

But the 24-year-old was ejected in the extra period for arguing over foul calls as the Nuggets clamed the win.

The Nuggets are third in the Western Conference, with the Timberwolves in fifth.

The King’s Christmas message will this year come from the historic Lady Chapel in Westminster Abbey, which has been the spiritual home of of the Royal Family for over 1,000 years

The King is expected to pay tribute to Britain’s war veterans in his Christmas message, as he reflects on the heroics of those who served in the Second World War. Marking the end of the year that commemorated the 80th anniversary of VE Day and VJ Day, it is anticipated that the monarch will once again herald the actions of our greatest generation.

For the second time in his reign, Charles has chosen to record his Christmas speech away from Buckingham Palace, in an effort to present a community feel, royal sources said. This year, the King decided to film the message in the Lady Chapel, Westminster Abbey, the spiritual home of the royal family for more than 1,000 years and the burial place of 15 Kings and Queens including Elizabeth I, Mary I and Mary Queen of Scots.

OPINION

Russell Myers

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Since 1066, almost every English and later British monarch has been crowned at Westminster Abbey which continues to be a major church of pilgrimage, a key theme of the King’s message this year. Pilgrims visit Westminster Abbey every year to remember the life and legacy of Edward the Confessor, whose Shrine lies at the heart of the Abbey.

It is also the site where the Prince and Princess of Wales were married in 2011, and where the Princess has for the past five years hosted her Together At Christmas carol concert, celebrating hundreds of community heroes for their efforts. It is the second time in his reign that Charles has chosen to record his Christmas speech away from a royal residence, the first being broadcast from the Fitzrovia Chapel in London, last year.

In his address to the nation and the Commonwealth, broadcast at 3pm on Christmas Day, the King is expected to once again reflect on community cohesion as a key theme. Since he acceded the throne in September 2022, the sovereign has structured his priorities around a set of guiding principles often referred to as the “four Cs”, specifically Climate, Community, Culture and Commonwealth.

Following his diagnosis with cancer in February 2024, a “fifth C” was added to his list of working priorities, in line with his public duties and patronages. Lifelong environmentalist Charles is also expected to discuss the urgent need to protect the natural planet, which has been a cornerstone of his life of public service.

It is understood that King is set to reflect on the emotional commemorations across Britain, Europe and the Commonwealth earlier this year, marking 80 years since VE Day was declared on May 8, 1945 and VJ Day on August 15.

A special programme of commemorations over four days in May for VE Day 80 saw the King joined by his closest family for an historic moment on the Buckingham Palace balcony with a spectacular flypast to celebrate the anniversary of the end of the Second World War in Europe.

The King heralded the “service and sacrifice of the wartime generation”, in a speech on the 80th anniversary of VE Day echoing the words of his late grandfather, King George VI.

In his own historic address to the nation, the monarch said “while our greatest debt is owed to all those who paid the ultimate price, we should never forget how the war changed the lives of virtually everyone”.

The King and Queen Camilla were also joined by the Prince and Princess of Wales and future king Prince George, 12, for a special tea party for veterans and their families inside Buckingham Palace on the May 8 anniversary. As part of his continued efforts to build relationships with other religious faiths, the King is expected to reflect on his historic trip to the Vatican in October.

Charles made history by becoming the first monarch to pray with the Pope in nearly 500 years, in a symbolic moment of unity for Anglicans and Roman Catholics across the world.

The monarch is, however, not expected to discuss his ongoing health battles, having earlier this month announced that his cancer treatment schedule is being reduced in the New Year – almost two years after his diagnosis. The King, 77, delivered a significant update about his cancer journey as part of the Channel 4 Stand Up to Cancer campaign on December 12, while stressing the importance of cancer screening programmes.

In the message, recorded in the morning room at Clarence House, the King revealed: “Early diagnosis quite simply saves lives. Now, I have heard this message repeatedly during my visits to cancer centres across the country. I know, too, what a difference it has made in my own case, enabling me to continue leading a full and active life, even while undergoing treatment.

“Today I am able to share with you the good news that thanks to early diagnosis, effective intervention and adherence to ‘doctors’ orders’, my own schedule of cancer treatment can be reduced in the New Year. This milestone is both a personal blessing and a testimony to the remarkable advances that have been made in cancer care in recent years; testimony that I hope may give encouragement to the fifty per cent of us who will be diagnosed with the illness at some point in our lives.”

The King will welcome his closest family to his Sandringham home in Norfolk tomorrow, for the start of their festive celebrations. Together with the Queen, he will lead the royal family – including the Prince and Princess of Wales and their three children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis – at the St Mary Magdalene Church on Christmas Day, before retiring to host lunch.

The King’s disgraced brother Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and his ex-wife Sarah Ferguson, who he still lives with in Windsor, will not be joining the royal family for Christmas this year.

The monarch in November stripped his brother of his remaining titles and honours, and Fergie of her Duchess of York title, due to their association with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Andrew and Sarah are expected to spend a final Christmas at their shared Royal Lodge mansion on the Windsor estate before moving to separate homes next year.

Prince Harry and his wife Meghan will also once again be absent from the royal family Christmas gathering. They are understood to be spending the holidays in California with their two children, Archie, six and Lilibet, four.

The cheapest destinations for package holidays in summer 2026 have been revealed, with five Spanish getaways making the list, with a seven-night stay starting from £864 per person

As we near the end of 2025, there’s no better time to think about booking your sun-soaked getaway for next year, and some popular holiday hotspots have been revealed as the cheapest.

Whether you’re dreaming of a well-deserved trip under the Mediterranean sun on a golden sand beach or time spent wandering around European streets soaking up a city’s vibrant culture, there’s a bundle of desirable holiday destinations on offer. In a bid to help you choose your next getaway, the experts at Which? have revealed the 10 cheapest destinations to book for a package holiday for the summer of 2026.

For the results, they compared the prices of 5,393 package holidays from Jet2holidays and easyJet Holidays. This was based on a seven-night stay, including flights, departing on or around August 2, with two people sharing a room with various board types.

The winner

With its white-sand beaches and sprawling resorts, Which? found Costa Blanca along Spain’s Mediterranean coastline as the cheapest option for a package for next year. Known as the White Coast, it boasts popular resorts like Benidorm, Alicante, and Altea, each offering its own unique allure.

For a stay in Costa Blanca during the peak of summer, Which? found that it would cost, on average, £864 per person for a seven-night package. This was the only destination they found to be less than £900 for a week’s stay in August.

The second-cheapest package holiday was to Tuscany in central Italy, famed for its rolling hills, Renaissance art, and cities like Florence, Siena, and Pisa. A week’s stay in the gorgeous Italian region would cost £929pp per week, including flights and accommodation – what’s not to love?

This is in stark contrast to the Italian region of Sardinia, which would cost around £1,508pp for the same stay, saving you a whopping £579. Tuscany is said to be more affordable due to its wide range of accommodations available, from self-catering to bed-and-breakfast, room-only, as well as all-inclusive and full-board packages.

Ranked as the third cheapest for a summer getaway was the stunning Agadir coast in Morocco, known for its sprawling sand beaches and as a major resort destination. With plenty of accommodation options along the coast, with beach days at its core, a stay here would cost £946pp.

Following the research from Which? they found that six of the cheapest holiday hotspots for 2026 were in Spain, with Tenerife, Fuerteventura, and Gran Canaria also on the list. Elsewhere, Zante in Greece, with its pristine blue waters, fruity landscapes and lively nightlife, also made the top 10.

Here are the cheapest package holiday destinations for 2026, as outlined by Which? The results show the average price, per person, for a seven-night package stay.

1. Costa Blanca, Spain – £864
2. Tuscany, Italy – £929
3. Agadir coast, Morocco – £946
4. Dalaman area, Turkey – £1,048
5. Tenerife, Canary Islands – £1,073
6. Fuerteventura, Canary Islands – £1,119
7. Gran Canaria, Canary Islands – £1,121
8. Costa Brava, Spain – £1,125
9. Costa Dorada, Spain – £1,133
10. Zante, Greece – £1,142

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

Professional dancer Jowita Przystal has been a part of Strictly since 2022 – and even won that year. But now fans have been left fearing she is set to walk away from the ballroom for good.

Strictly Come Dancing professional Jowita Przystal has addressed her future on the show after hinting she has quit. The 31-year-old dancer joined the cast of the BBC show in 2022 – winning that year alongside wildlife cameraman Hamza Yassin.

She then danced with cyclist Jody Cundy, 47, in 2023 – and caused a frenzy when she danced with notorious Lothario Pete Wicks, 37, during the 2024 competition. But fans are now fearing that the 2025 contest has been the last for Jowita – after she shared a cryptic message online.

For the latest season of the show – which concluded over the weekend – the Polish dance star was partnered with Scottish presenter Ross King, 63. However, the pair were the second couple to be booted off the show after failing to impress viewers and the judges.

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Following Saturday night’s live final – in which footballer Karen Carney and dancer Carlos Gu won – Jowita took to Instagram to share a photograph of herself alongside Ross. Fans were left startled and alarmed when she added a caption stating: “Last dance partner on strictly floor x.”

Her comment provoked a flurry of speculation, with one fan fearfully commenting online: “Jowita just shared this! Is this her last year?” Another, fearing the worst, replied: “I wondered also. I hope not she is my fav female pro.” While a further fan remarked “it would be a weird way to announce something like that.”

Jowita later returned to Instagram Stories to share a photo of herself posing alongside other Strictly professionals. And in an accompanying caption, she clarified her prior comment. She wrote: “So grateful for being a part of the best show on tv. And just to clarify my last post it was about my last dance with ross, not me leaving the show. Hopefully far from my last dance on that dance floor.”

Fans of Strictly have been left devastated, however, by the fact that hosts Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman won’t return to the show. The duo stunned fans in October when they abruptly announced that they would be quitting the show at the end of the year and won’t return to host the 2026 season.

And on Saturday night, the ladies bid farewell to the series. Tess, 56, who has hosted the show since it began back in 2004 shared an emotional message to fans on social media after working through the final.

She wrote in a heartfelt Instagram post: “So that’s a wrap. What an incredible Final – fitting for what, for me, has been an absolutely brilliant series. Strictly is a show that is made with love, where joy is the currency and the only agenda. That love is down to every single member of the brilliant team that makes it, because to none of them is it just a job. It is a gift, and it is truly treasured. I will be forever grateful for the unforgettable years I have spent sharing this magical show with you. I’ll miss the Strictly viewers, because they are the very best, the most loyal and supportive, and as passionate about the show as I have always been. It has been the most wonderful privilege to have shared it with you all for so many years.”

She concluded: “Thank you from the bottom of my heart for the memories of a lifetime.” Her post included a montage video from the final night, with the star dazzling in a sequin gown. While co-host Claudia looked sharp in a tailored suit, with the catchphrase “Keep dancing” emblazoned across her back.

In a post of her own, Claudia shared a backstage photo of herself with Tess as they walked hand in hand to the main stage. In a simple message, she wrote: “For the last time… I love you @tessdaly,” and added a red heart emoji.

And in a later post, she shared a photograph of Karen and Carlos accepting their trophy after winning the show. She wrote alongside the image: “Massive congratulations to our amazing winners @kazcarney and @gkx_carlos and also to the brilliant @amb_d @nikita__kuzmin and @georgeclarkeey and @alexis_warr – what a final, what a team.”

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TIMOTHEE Chalamet simultaneously debunked two recent rumours swirling about his life at once through his debut rap song.

The actor, 29, has been the center of lots of speculation lately as fans have been somewhat convinced he is secretly Liverpudlian rapper EsDeeKid.

The wild theory is based off of supposed fan “evidence”, drawing similarities between the shape of the pair’s eyes an faces, hands, and fashion choices.

The young star has also been facing swathes of break-up rumours, after viewers noticed that him and girlfriend Kylie Jenner appeared to look “bored” together at a New York Yankees game.

Timothee has been accused of acting “cold” towards the Kylie Cosmetics founder during the holiday season.

He’s been doing lots of press in recent weeks following the release of new film Marty Supreme.

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But in the press interviews he hasn’t mentioned Kylie at all.

He was also a no-show at Kylie’s mom Kris Jenner’s 70th birthday celebrations last month.

However in his recently dropped rap collab 4 Raws – alongside masked singer EsDeeKid himself – Timothee sang some lyrics that seemed to highly praise his stunning significant other.

Collaborating with EsDeeKid in itself instantly debunked the rumour that the rapper could possibly be Timothee.

Meanwhile lyrics such as “My girl’s worth a billion,” stood out in the single, in possible reference to Kylie’s wealth and hard work.

It could also be Timothee’s way of describing Kylie, 28, as utterly irreplaceable.

Timothee and Kylie were first linked back in 2023.

Rumours about their romance began to fuel in January after they were spotted together during Paris Fashion Week.

But it wasn’t until September 2023 that they hardlaunched as a couple, kissing at a Beyonce concert.

In the years to follow the star-studded duo have attended many public events together including the Golden Globes and the Oscars.

They’re often seen looking loved-up on a red carpet, and have piled on the PDA lately to help combat split rumours.

Early this month Kylie attended the premiere of Marty Supreme with her beau and they posed up a storm for the cameras.

Timothee wrapped his arms around her waist as they both wore matching bright orange outfits and smiled for the cameras.

They smiled at one another, looking incredibly happy.

ROB Reiner’s daughter has broken her silence over her dad’s death – revealing she saw him just one day before the film director and his wife Michele were murdered.

Tracy Reiner, 61, said the brutal double killing left her devastated – before paying her respects to the “the greatest family ever”.

Tracy, who was adopted by Rob during his marriage to Penny Marshall, said she was left speechless.

The actress said: “I came from the greatest family ever.

“I don’t know what to say. I’m in shock.”

She added that she had seen her late dad at a family gathering just one day before horror knife attack.

TEARS FOR ROB

Tragic moment Rob Reiner’s assistant breaks down in tears outside LA mansion

‘OBSESSION’

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The iconic director was married to Marshall from 1971 to 1981, during which time he adopted Tracy.  

Rob, 78, and Michele, 68, were found dead by their other daughter Romy, 28, with their throats slit at their sprawling $13.5million Brentwood mansion on Sunday afternoon.

The Hollywood icon’s youngest son Nick has been charged with murder in connection with the grisly killing.

A source revealed to The U.S. Sun that Rob and Michele got into a heated public argument with Nick at a Hanukkah party on Saturday evening.

The clash is believed to have continued overnight at the family’s home where Rob and Michele were found dead at around 3:30pm local time.

The party was hosted by Conan O’Brien, according to TMZ.

Nick, 32, was booked into a Los Angeles jail on Monday morning, according to online records viewed by The U.S. Sun.

He has since been charged with murder and is being held at Parker Center Jail on $4 million bail, Los Angeles Police Department Chief Jim McDonnell announced during a press conference on Monday.

Nick, who reportedly lives in the Los Angeles area, is rarely seen in public since he opened up about his struggles with drug addiction in 2016.

He admitted to first going to rehab at the age of 25 and said his addiction issues even led him to being homeless at one point in his life, according to People.

“When I was out there, I could’ve died. It’s all luck. You roll the dice and you hope you make it,” Nick said.

In 2015, Nick and his father worked on the semi-autobiographical film, Hey Charlie, which centered around the entitled, drug-addicted son of a renowned actor turned political candidate in California.

Rob told the Los Angeles Times at the time that he had to push past trauma and tough memories during filming.

“It was very, very hard going through it the first time, with these painful and difficult highs and lows,” the beloved director told the outlet then.

“And then making the movie dredged it all up again.”

Fellow Hollywood stars paid tribute to both Rob and Michele.

Ex-Monty Python member Eric Idle said he had spoken to Rob the night before his death.

Paying his respects, he said: “Rob Reiner was a lovely man. I spoke to him last night for over an hour. I always enjoyed his company.

“I met him at his Dad’s in 1975. He was telling me about filming at Stonehenge and his thoughts for the future … I shall miss him.

“A clever, talented and very thoughtful man. So awful.”

Ben Stiller said Rob was one of his favourite directors, and called him “a kind caring person who was really really funny”.

Josh Gad, who voiced Olaf in Frozen, described Rob and his wife’s deaths as a “devastating” loss.

Actor John Cusack, who starred in Rob’s 1985 film The Sure Thing, said he “saw the soul in others”.

Timeline of the double murder

ROB Reiner and his wife of Michele Singer Reiner were found dead in their Los Angeles home on December 14, 2025.

Timeline:

• December 13, 2025: Reiner and his wife Michele attended a holiday party on the evening of December 13 with their son, Nick.
• Sources conveyed to The U.S. Sun that the couple and their son were engaged in a heated public argument while at the event.
• December 14, 2025: Reiner and Michele were found dead in their Brentwood home in Los Angeles at around 3:30 pm PST.
• The couple’s daughter, Romy, reportedly discovered her parents bodies.
• Online police records show Reiner and Michele’s 32-year-old son, Nick, was arrested at 9:15 pm PST on December 14.
• December 15, 2025: Authorities in Los Angeles announce that Nick Reiner was arrested and charged with murder.
• Nick was booked into a Los Angeles jail at 5:04 am and is being held on $4 million bail.

HOLLYWOOD HORROR

The gruesome homicides of Rob and his wife, Michele, 68, shocked the world of Hollywood after reports emerged that the couple were discovered with multiple lacerations.

The Misery director and his wife, who had been married for 36 years, had their throats slit by a family member following a heated argument, according to TMZ.

Romy, 28, told authorities that a family member “should be a suspect” because they’re “dangerous,” the outlet reported.

The Los Angeles Police Department is investigating the deaths as an apparent homicide.

Alan Hamilton, the deputy police chief of the LAPD, told reporters on Sunday evening that authorities would interview several family members of the Reiners as the investigation continued.

Hamilton said the property showed no signs of forced entry.

FILM ICON

Rob, who was raised in the Bronx by famed actors Carl and Estelle, was a huge presence in the film industry after more than five decades as one of Hollywood’s top directors and actors.

His career as an actor began in the early 1960s, but it was not until the 1970s that Rob gained recognition after portraying Michael “Meathead” Stivic on the TV comedy All in the Family.

Throughout the 70s, Rob continued to make guest appearances on several TV series, including The Partridge Family.

However, it was in the director’s chair where Rob flourished into a star in the world of film.

He helmed a string of hit movies, including, When Harry Met Sally, The Princess Bride, and the Academy Award nominated film A Few Good Men, among others.

It was on the set of When Harry Met Sally that he met the photographer and his eventual wife, Michele Singer.

“I look over and I see this girl, and ‘Whoo!’ I was attracted immediately,” Rob told The New York Times in 1989.

The couple wed in 1989, the year the film was released.

After their marriage, Michele began helping her husband with producing films, including Shock and Awe and Albert Brooks: Defending My Life.

The legendary career of iconic director Rob Reiner

FAMED actor, director and producer Rob Reiner, 78, died on December 14 alongside his wife Michele Singer, 68, in an apparent homicide.

Here is a look at the prodigious list of achievements the Hollywood powerhouse earned before his tragic and sudden death.

Director’s Beginnings

• Reiner was born in New York City on March 6, 1947, to legendary comedy writer Carl Reiner and singer Estelle Reiner
• He studied at the University of California, Los Angeles film school before breaking into the entertainment industry

Hollywood Career

• Reiner first found fame as an actor playing Michael “Meathead” Stivic on the iconic sitcom All in the Family from 1971 to 1979
• In 1984, he directed his first film This Is Spinal Tap – a mockumentary following a fictional heavy metal band
• Reiner went on to direct cult classic films like The Princess Bride in 1987 and When Harry Met Sally… in 1989
• Other notable movies made by the director include Misery, The American President, and A Few Good Men, which earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture
• The production company he co-founded, Castle Rock Entertainment, has also produced hits like Seinfeld and The Shawshank Redemption
• Reiner didn’t halt his acting career either, recently starring in The Wolf of Wall Street in 2013 and The Bear in 2025

Personal Life

• Reiner married actress Penny Marshall in 1971 and adopted her daughter, Tracy, from a previous marriage. The couple divorced in 1981
• He met photographer Michele Singer while shooting When Harry Met Sally
• They married in 1989 and had three children: Jake, born 1991, Nick born 1993, and Romy born 1997)
• Nick opened up about his struggle with drug addiction in 2016. The movie Becoming Charlie, directed by Reiner, was based on Nick’s story
• Reiner was an outspoken Democratic activist and a fierce critic of Donald Trump

Rob and Michele are survived by their children, Romy, Jake, Nick, and Tracy, the director’s daughter, whom he adopted from his previous wife, Penny Marshall.

Tributes have been paid to the actor and director and his wife following their deaths.

“Rob was the big-hearted genius behind so many of the classic stories we love, with projects as wide-ranging as The Princess Bride to A Few Good Men,” California Governor Gavin Newsom wrote on X.

“His boundless empathy made his stories timeless, teaching generations how to see goodness and righteousness in others — and encouraging us to dream bigger.

“Rob will be remembered for his remarkable filmography and for his extraordinary contribution to humanity.”

Former US president Barack Obama spoke warmly about the couple.

“Rob’s achievements in film and television gave us some of our most cherished stories on screen,” he said.

“But beneath all of the stories he produced was a deep belief in the goodness of people—and a lifelong commitment to putting that belief into action.

“Together, he and his wife lived lives defined by purpose. They will be remembered for the values they championed and the countless people they inspired.”

Former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi described Rob as someone who was creative and funny.

She also hailed him as an actor who could make fans laugh and cry when they watched his films.

Pelosi described Rob’s wife as an “indispensible partner and intellectual resource.”

Strictly Come Dancing’s Amber Davies was the subject of brutal comments from social media trolls after defeating Lewis Cope in a dance off but is brushing off the abuse to focus on the positives

Amber Davies has praised her Strictly Come Dancing co-stars after making it through to the final. The 29-year-old former Love Island star is partnered with Nikita Kuzmin, 27, and they have survived 12 weeks and three dance-offs to make it all the way to next Saturday’s grand finale.

On Sunday night, TV fans watched as Strictly judges unanimously voted to save Amber and Nikita after they danced against EastEnders star Balvinder Sopal and her dance partner Julian Caillon – a week after they had saved the duo in a dance off against Emmerdale’s Lewis Cope and dancer Katya Jones.

The 23rd season of Strictly has been fraught for some of the contestants as they have faced abuse online, with Amber targeted after defeating Lewis, and for her West End stage career, which some have felt has given her an unfair advantage in the contest. And the star has seen comments reach beyond criticism to become nothing short of bullying.

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On Sunday night, following the latest results show, Amber took to social media to tell her fans and lavish praise on her fellow contestants – and embrace all the positive experiences she has enjoyed over the past few months. Sharing a photo of herself with defeated semi-finalist Balvinder, the stage star wrote: “To do this experience next to you has been the biggest gift & life lesson, your strength and resilience has inspired me every single day. You are one of a kind, I will always be #TeamBal.”

In a video message to followers, Amber explained that she was supporting her fellow finalists, YouTube star George Clarke and footballer Karen Carney, as they all faced a final together. She said via Instagram: “I just wanna come on here and say in the close to a decade I’ve been in the public eye, I’ve never experienced an outpouring of love the way I have in the last 48 hours.”

She continued: “And to make the Strictly final is…I’m speechless. From how it started, I genuinely can’t believe I’ve made it to the end, but you know, I’ve just realised, I think I’ve needed to do Strictly to realise that there is so much kindness in this world.”

And she explained: “Like Nikita said, we’re stronger when we’re kinder and I’m going to literally enjoy every single second of this week. I’m rooting for George, I’m rooting for Kaz, and I’m just gonna be there to enjoy the ride.”

On Saturday night, Nikita took an opportunity during the live show to defend Amber, who has endured weeks of social media abuse. He told Amber in the Clauditorium: “You have had so much hate every single day from the moment you joined, you’ve had so much hate this week, and yet, you came every single day into the training room with a big smile, ignoring everybody.

“And just giving me love, giving me a ginger shot as well. But you gave so much love, you always were kind, so caring, you care more about me when I’m supposed to care about you. You care about me every single day, you are such a lovely kind person.

“And I think sometimes, and I speak to the audience at home, just please be kind because it costs nothing and you [Amber] don’t deserve none of it. You only deserve love because without you, I wouldn’t be here, and the show wouldn’t be as good as it is.”

Following Sunday’s results show, Amber shared photos of herself with Nikita on the dancefloor alongside an upbeat message about their final week on the show. She began by writing on Instagram: “Strictly 2025 finalists,” alongside an emotion-filled face emoji.

She wrote: “To those who have supported and voted for us from day one, you are the reason we are here and have made it!! 12 live shows, 3 dance-offs, 3 40s!!!! It’s not about winning for me, it never EVER has been, it’s always been about making the most of this incredible opportunity that was gifted to me so last minute. And now I will wholeheartedly cherish every single second of this last week with my partner in crime, one last week of pushing, laughing, learning, growing & of course knowing me lots of crying.”

She added: “I feel an overwhelming emotion of gratitude to you @bbcstrictly the greatest team in the world. Let’s go DANCE OUR HEARTS OUT FOR US @nikita__kuzmin TEAM BLOMMING CHAOS MADE IT TO THE END.”

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