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FORMER Strictly dancer Ola Jordan had a massive telephone row with her estranged husband James after he went on TV to deny cheating on her.

Furious Ola spent the day in tears following James’ appearance on Jeremy Vine’s Channel 5 show on Friday.

During a chat with the host, James insisted his new relationship with Russian ballroom beauty Polina Mayer began after his 22-year ­marriage to Ola had ended.

It comes after The Sun on Sunday revealed Polina’s hubby, Jamie Cutler, had called Ola claiming that his wife was sleeping with James — and to say he was filing for divorce.

Now, in another agonising twist, we can reveal Ola was particularly upset because she had welcomed Polina to stay in the spare room at their family home last year while she and James worked together.

A source said: “Ola feels betrayed and hurt by James’ actions. She can’t believe he is being so blunt and ­disregarding her feelings.

“She is shocked and devastated. It’s as if their decades of marriage and years as a couple meant nothing.

“She spent Friday in floods of tears after arguing with him on the phone.”

Ola and James — who also used to be a Strictly professional — announced their break-up in August.

He said he “needed to focus on getting myself into a healthier place”.

On Friday, James and fellow former pro Brendan Cole appeared on Jeremy’s show to promote their upcoming stage tour, Dance Rebels: Strictly Unleashed.

Asked about his marriage breakdown, James — who has performed on stage with Polina since 2024 — said: “I moved out . . . which was in the Press.

“I haven’t really spoken about it because I always said I wouldn’t speak about it, because I don’t think it’s fair unless Ola was to be here as well.”

Jeremy told him: “There was a story that you were having an affair with somebody and her ­husband rang Ola.”

James responded: “Apparently so, I don’t know if that is true or not.”

And Brendan interjected: “It’s hard to have an affair if you’ve moved out.”

As he was probed further, James insisted: “There was no affair. I have grown closer to someone since I moved out back in June . . . The problem is, if I say nothing it makes me look guilty.

“If I say something, it looks like I’m being defensive.

“So, for me, it’s a lose-lose. I will put out a statement at some point on social media to try to clarify what’s been going on.”

James’ suggestion he might set out his version of events online caused the exes to lock horns.

A source said: “Ola was left incensed and didn’t think it was fair that James was trying to ­control the narrative.

“She is devastated that he is now dating Polina after she welcomed her into their house and supported them dancing together.

“Ola feels she couldn’t have done more to be an encouraging spouse, and now he is rubbing her nose in his new romance by parading around with Polina. She has been really struggling.”

James and Polish Ola met in 1999 and married four years later.

They signed up as pros on BBC One’s Strictly in 2006, becoming two of its most popular dancers.

James stayed on until 2013 while Ola, who lifted the Glitterball in 2009 with sports presenter Chris Hollins, departed in 2015.

After having their daughter Ella in 2020, following years of IVF, the couple opened up about their weight gain and told The Sun their “bellies” were getting in the way of their sex life.

But they later revealed they had shed six-and-a-half-stone between them.

Meanwhile, in 2021, Polina, who also danced on Strictly, got engaged to Jamie and the pair tied the knot two years later.

In 2024, James started working with Polina on Legends Of The Dance Floor, along with other former Strictly pros. Jamie helped choreograph the routines they ­performed on stage.

After the Jordans confirmed their split to The Sun in August, James issued a statement saying: “I’ve been struggling more than I’ve let people see and I’m taking the time I need to focus on getting myself into a healthier place, both for myself and for Ella.

“Neither of us is in a good place right now. We’re both doing our best to navigate one of the hardest chapters of our lives.”

James threw himself into his new podcast, entitled Manopause, with his pal and ex-Strictly co-star Brendan and said he was going through a “midlife crisis”.

He also appeared on ITV’s This Morning, saying: “I’m now sitting in a one-bedroom apartment on my own at night, watching TV, going, ‘What is going on?’. But I just feel I need that time to find myself again.” James and Polina’s latest tour, The Legends In Vegas: After Hours, ended last weekend.

Last week, Ola told Hello! magazine how the breakdown of her marriage to James had left her devastated.

She said: “I’ve not just lost my husband, I’ve lost my best friend and business partner all in one go.

“It’s difficult for me to describe what happened between us because this wasn’t my decision. It came as a shock to me.”

She added: “At the end of last year, things came to a head when he told me that he was thinking of moving out, which obviously broke my heart. I tried to stop him and save the marriage, as you do when you love someone. Because I knew that if he went, we might never get back what we once had.”

The Sun on Sunday approached James and Ola for comment.

A LIVE performance of musical Legally Blonde had to be halted when a canine cast member pooped centre stage.

And the bulldog’s performance stool the show, with the audience giving him a standing ovation and a huge cheer at the end.

The sell-out crowd at the musical comedy, which stars Strictly finalist Amber Davies as Elle Woods, erupted into laughter when the pooch walked to the front of the stage before turning and starting to do its business.

Onlookers said the actors nervously glanced around, unsure what to do next, before quickly leaving the stage.

The lights at Manchester’s Opera House, which seats 1,920, were turned down and two maintenance workers wearing gloves and armed with disinfectant spray rushed on stage from the wings.

They quickly dealt with the situation before dashing off so the show could go on — to huge applause and cheers.

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One audience member said: “It was hilarious. The actors and audience were just like, ‘Oh my God, is this actually happening?’

“There was quite a lot of it, and the dog walked along as he was doing his business with his back end facing the audience.

“The show is brilliant, but that definitely got the biggest laugh. He stole the show. The actors were stood there looking at each other.

“It seemed to go on forever before they all went off laughing. But they recovered quickly, and once the mess was dealt with, they carried on the scene.”

The audience member added: “At the closing, the audience cheered and shouted when the dog was brought on stage, and they gave a standing ovation. It was all very funny.”

The bulldog in the show is called Rufus. He is character Paulette Bonafonte’s beloved pet, who becomes the centre of a custody battle with Paulette’s former boyfriend Dewey Newcombe.

The show, based on the 2001 comedy movie starring Reese Witherspoon, has been playing to packed-out audiences and finished its run in the city last night before continuing its UK tour.

There are over 70 stalls to explore and events to take part in

Christmas is now just six weeks away, and the festive spirit is already starting to arrive in towns and cities across the UK. Markets have been popping up, transforming streets into winter wonderlands.

This weekend marks the opening of Edinburgh’s Christmas celebrations, which take over the stunning city. The Scottish capital held its first Christmas market in 1999, and it has since grown into a huge event.

It is considered one of the UK’s best and most picturesque winter festivals, with visitors flocking from across the world. The city centre is filled with traditional markets, funfair rides, attractions, music concerts, community events and family-friendly performances.

The celebrations are set against the backdrop of Edinburgh Castle and the grand Georgian streets. Visitors can enjoy a drink in the Polar Ice Bar or the Coorie Inn or take part in pub quizzes, wreath-making and candle-making workshops.

For thrill seekers, there is a big wheel, Helter Skelter, vintage carousel ride, waltzers and dodgems.

Where is Edinburgh’s Christmas market?

The Christmas celebrations are spread out across Edinburgh’s city centre. West Princes Street Gardens, East Princes Street Gardens, George Street and Bistro Square have all been transformed for the festive season.

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When does it open?

Edinburgh Christmas opens on Saturday, November 14 and runs all the way until January 3. East Princes Street Gardens’ celebrations are open daily from 10am until 10pm, with some changes to the hours during the week of Christmas.

It will be closed on Christmas Day. On Christmas Eve, the market will run from 10am to 8pm, and on Boxing Day from 12pm to 8pm. New Year’s Eve will be open from 10am to 5pm, and from 12pm to 8pm on New Year’s Day. The final day, January 3, will be open 10am until 8pm.

West Princes Street Gardens has slightly different hours. From November 14 until December 6, it will be open from 12pm to 8pm Monday to Wednesday, from 12pm to 9pm Thursday to Friday, and from 10am to 9pm Saturday and Sunday.

From December 7 to December 18, it will be open from 12pm to 9pm Monday to Friday and from 10am to 9pm Saturday and Sunday. It will also be closed on Christmas Day.

The Coorie Inn, George Street, will be open daily from 12pm until late, and will be closed until December 25. Visitors have been urged to check the opening times when planning their visit, as they are subject to change.

How to get to Edinburgh Christmas

The events are spread across the city, with many different transport options available. Lothian Buses runs over 70 bus routes in and around Edinburgh.

The trams can also be used, with stops at St Andrew Square, Princes Street and the West End. Edinburgh Waverley train station is around a two-minute walk from East Princes Street Gardens.

The nearest coach station is Edinburgh Bus Station, which is around a six-minute walk away. There are no designated car parks for the event, but there are car parks across the city centre.

Children in Need returned on Friday, with the presenters revealing the huge amount raised at the end of the show.

The BBC has confirmed the total amount raised for Children in Need 2026.

The annual spectacle returned to screens on Friday, 13 November, with hosts including Alex Jones, Mel Giedroyc, Rylan, Sara Cox and Tyler West.

The charity event saw an incredible line-up of famous faces taking part in challenges, performances and sketches, with the BBC having earlier teased “dazzling performances, exclusive sketches, surprise appearances and a heartwarming return from the much-loved Children in Need Choir”.

It has now been confirmed how much was raised, as the live show came to an end.

How much was raised for Children in Need 2026?

As the show came to an end, Mel confirmed the total amount raised for Children in Need: £38,720,170.

Last year’s show raised £45,507,536 on the night of its 2025 appeal show.

“To the millions of children and young people out there, remember, Children in Need is here for you,” Alex said, signing off the show, as Sara urged: “Keep the donations coming in!” Mel added: “We’re so grateful to each and every one of you for your support.”

The total comes after BBC radio presenter Owain Wyn Evans completed his four nations cycling challenge in Cardiff on Friday, having raised £3,853,530.

He took part in a five-day cycle ride through Scotland, Northern Ireland, England and Wales. As he crossed the finish line with his bike, Shania Chain, Owain said: “Thank you so much everyone, from me and Shania. Honestly, this has felt so far away for such a long time. I can’t believe that I’m here with this welcome and the sun’s out!”

He added: “Just reflecting on what it’s been like. We’re doing it all for an amazing cause, Children In Need. There are so many children who need our help and who will be helped by all the donations.”

Ahead of this year’s Children in Need airing, The One Show host Alex shared: “It means the absolute world to be part of the team for the big night of Children in Need, I have watched it avidly since I was a little girl and Sir Terry Wogan was at the helm.

“It was always one of the big highlights of the year. And more recently for me, The One Show has always been very much at the heart of Children in Need, as we will be again this year with our Challenge Squad, so it feels amazing to be there with Pudsey on his big night.”

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Mel shared: “Being part of Children in Need every year, as I have been for the last 10 years as presenter, which I’m so honoured and privileged to do, is everything to me. It’s a red-letter day, and one of the most life affirming and important for me in my calendar.”

Rylan added: “⁠It’s amazing to be part of Children in Need’s appeal show, obviously it’s something that I have grown up watching and loved and have been involved in in the past, so to be asked to host this year is a real honour.”

He continued: “Children in Need matters because unfortunately, the title still stands – there are a lot of children that are still in need and we need to do our bit to make sure no child goes without the love and care that they deserve.”

Children in Need is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.

IF YOU are looking for your next day out or the ideal Christmas gift then look no further as Sun Club members can bag bargain tickets to top theatre shows.

When you sign up to Sun Club you can save up to a massive 64 per cent on theatre tickets in the London Theatre Direct Black Friday sale – which is on NOW.

The sale offers up to 60 per cent off on tickets, but as a Sun Club member, you get an EXTRA 10 per cent off after that.

Click here to sign up for Sun Club for just £1.99 (or £12 for the year) then head to the Sun Club Offers Hub to bag your extra 10% off.

The sale takes place from November 13 to December 7, with more than 60 shows available to book.

But if you book with Sun Club, you can grab an absolute bargain with tickets available from just £9 – including to Julia Donaldson’s classic The Smartest Giant in Town, opening December 9.

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This includes big name West End shows like Matilda The Musical, Wicked, Hamilton and The Hunger Games.

There are also shows like Magic Mike Live, Abba Voyage, High School Musical and The Devil Wears Prada.

Travel Reporter Cyann Fielding recently went to see The Devil Wears Prada and said: “Initially sceptical of how they could change this classic chick flick into a musical, I was sold after learning that Elton John wrote the score and I knew the show was in good hands.

“Your attention is grabbed the minute the lights go down, with Emily storming onto stage seconds after her phone buzzes.

“She commands the audience to turn off their phones – but teases guests to grab a quick photo first, “just not from an unflattering low angle”.

“This moment immediately sets the tone.

“The design of the entire show blew me away, with sets that move around on their own to transform into the famous locations of the film.

“Of course, you get high-fashion too – but being set in the early noughties, it was less barrel leg jeans and oversized jackets, and more tight pencil skirts and stilettos.

“I felt like I was sat at the edge of a runway, watching fashionistas strut around.”

How to book this offer:

As a Sun Club member, simply click the ‘Book’ button on the Offers Hub and you will be sent to The Sun’s page on the London Theatre Direct website.

There you can select your tickets from more than 60 shows.

When you book through this link, your exclusive discount will be automatically applied at checkout.

18+ UK only. Digital subscription required. Online access required. Offer ends 23:59pm on 07/12/26. Save an additional 10 per cent off tickets. Full T&Cs apply, see below.

Associate Editor Tom Bryant is given a tour of the I’m A Celebrity camp – and is wowed by the efforts to make the jungle accessible for Ade Adepitan.

20:03, 12 Nov 2026

Walking up from the creek to the top of the jungle is lung-busting stuff. I was out of breath by time i’d made it to my hammock yesterday.

I can certainly understand why the campmates always kick off when they’re lumbered with the washing up at the bottom. Now imagine having to negotiate that same hill on crutches.

That’s the challenge facing Ade Adepitan when he enters the I’m A Celebrity jungle this weekend. And fair play to both him and ITV for the extraordinary lengths they’ve gone to in making it possible.

Bosses have spent months working out how to accommodate the Paralympian’s needs without compromising the look and feel of the jungle. And having seen the results for myself, I reckon they’ve cracked it.

You could wander around the camp for hours without noticing many of the changes. Everything has been so cleverly blended into the surroundings that it barely registers. Even the stairlift has been camouflaged with greenery to make it look like part of the jungle.

As for that punishing hill, resting points have been introduced along the way, while the steps have been subtly levelled to give Ade a firmer grip. But underestimate him at your peril.

This is a man who once crawled up a volcano in Nicaragua after a gruelling 220-mile trek across Central America to the Pacific coast for a TV show. Insiders tell me his upper-body strength is astonishing, and I’m delighted that bosses are confident he’ll be able to tackle the vast majority of this year’s challenges.

There is something genuinely uplifting about the effort that has gone into making this happen. Not least the message it sends to disabled boys and girls watching at home.

And perhaps nobody understands the significance of it better than Ade himself.

“Words like ‘honour’ and ‘privilege’ are ones I feel, but I don’t think they sum it up enough,” he said. “For me, this is a moment in time. Even if I go out in the first week, I will always be remembered as the person in a wheelchair.”

FLORIDATIX have launched their mega Black Friday sale early – and our code saves you an EXTRA 25% off your dream Florida holiday.

The travel website sell tickets to attractions like Walt Disney World, Universal Resort and Legoland Florida Resort.

Click below and use code BF25 to get 25% off Florida hotel, attraction and theme park tickets

The Black Friday sale sees up to 20 per cent off Disney 14-day magic tickets and 25 per cent off Universal Orlando Resort – but our code bags you even more savings.

If you use code BF25 when checking out, you’ll save an EXTRA 25 per cent on top of your booking. This applies to all bookings sitewide!

So if you’ve been thinking about planning that bucket list family holiday, now’s the time to get it locked in for cheap.

You can buy a Universal Orlando Resort 14-Day Ticket from only £35.36 per day, and a Disney 14-day Magic Ticket from £39.43 per day.

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If you want to tick off multiple parks on your Florida trip, you can also save up to 25 per cent on combo tickets, which puts together multiple attractions into one deal.

The Disney and Universal Combo starts from £74.19 per day in the sale, and includes 14-day attraction tickets for both parks.

You can also save on popular attractions like Legoland Florida Resort, Madame Tussauds Orlando and the Kennedy Space Centre.

But it’s not just the big names you can save big on, there are some unique experiences on offer, too.

One of which is Medieval Times: an 11th century-themed dinner show with live jousting that has recently been doing the rounds on social media.

Here you can dine on a royal banquet as you watch six knights battle in authentic sword fights.

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You can even save on tickets to go and watch an Orlando Magic basketball game, and soak up the electric atmosphere of an American sports game.

Another attraction you can use the discount code for is Island H2O waterpark, the perfect place to visit to cool off from the Florida heat and keep the kids entertained at the same time.

You can even use the discount code to save on hotels, and if you’ve been wanting to try out a Disney Cruise, there’s discounts on those.

Using the discount code BF25 even gets you two extra freebies, too.

Exclusive to Floridatix, you’ll also bag a free Magic Pack and eSIM with every booking.

The Magic Pack contains theme park guides, planners, and lots of information about the attractions to help you plan your big trip properly.

Every booking also gets a free 1GB eSIM, so you can stay connected with everyone back home without worrying about roaming charges.

There are lots of happy holidaymakers who have booked their dream trip through Floridatix, and have praised the affordable deals as well as the customer service.

Holidaymaker Rebecca writes “I have just booked our Disney and universal tickets with the Black Friday deal.

“Penny was absolutely amazing, so friendly and helpful. This is our 4th trip and honestly what a deal! Cheapest we have paid”.

Another Floridatix user, Jeremy, said “Can’t praise FloridaTix enough, just wish I’d found them earlier as they are by far the cheapest ticket provider that I have found.

“Their customer service is exceptional. Sarah handled all of our requirements, she made the whole process easy, and saved us a considerable amount of money“.

Click below and use code BF25 to get 25% off Florida hotel, attraction and theme park tickets

Prices correct at the time of publication.

A NATIONWIDE strike in Spain is expected to disrupt travel across the entire country tomorrow – and it includes UK flights.

The industrial action will ‘bring the country to a complete standstill‘ as staff are set to walkout from airports, public transport, shops, restaurants and museums.

The shutdown will begin tomorrow morning as major trade unions in Spain stage a 24-hour walkout.

The strike is protesting the escalating housing crisis – and it will be the country’s first joint general strike in almost 15 years.

Flights across both mainland Spain and the Canary Islands are expected to see cancellations or delays.

Iberia has warned that journeys might be affected on November 11 and has put alternatives in place for those who experience disruption.

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It adds that anyone travelling from a Spanish airport tomorrow should arrive earlier than usual with the strike causing delays at check-in, security and passport control.

However, the good news is that there’s a minimum flight service requirement in place.

Business Travel News Europe reported that there must be at least 57 per cent of international flights at Madrid and 56 per cent at Barcelona.

Passengers should still check for updates from their airline before travelling tomorrow.

Anton Radchenko, Aviation Expert and CEO of AirAdvisor, said :”If my flight were cancelled, my first question would be how the airline could get me there, rather than how quickly it could refund me. The original ticket price may not cover a replacement bought at short notice.

“If another airline can get you there significantly sooner, ask about that option rather than assume you must wait for your original carrier’s next flight.”

For anyone who is already in Spain and needs to stay overnight while waiting for replacement travel, Anton says travellers should ask the airline to arrange accommodation and meals.

If the airline can’t provide that, then passengers are advised to keep receipts for expenses.

Anton adds: “Those costs are separate from fixed compensation, and passengers should not abandon a legitimate expenses claim simply because they have been told the strike was outside the airline’s control.”

The strike won’t just affect flights – on the ground, public transport will be impacted including high-speed lines, the city metro, and buses.

However, the government has guaranteed that at least 72 per cent of the AVE and long-distance trains will operate on November 10-12, with 65 per cent of Renfe’s regional services set to run as scheduled.

For anyone already on holiday there at the time, the walkout could see some restaurants, museum and shops close.

If they’re not shut, the opening hours could be reduced to holiday hours.

There could be demonstrations in large cities, so monitor local media for updates and disruption.

Flight compensation rules

A look at your rights if a flight is delayed or cancelled, when your entitled to compensation and if your travel insurance can cover the costs.

What are my rights if my flight is cancelled or delayed?

Under UK law, airlines have to provide compensation if your flight arrives at its destination more than three hours late.

If you’re flying to or from the UK, your airline must let you choose a refund or an alternative flight.

You will be able to get your money back for the part of your ticket that you haven’t used yet.

So if you booked a return flight and the outbound leg is cancelled, you can get the full cost of the return ticket refunded.

But if travelling is essential, then your airline has to find you an alternative flight. This could even be with another airline.

When am I not entitled to compensation?

The airline doesn’t have to give you a refund if the flight was cancelled due to reasons beyond their control, such as extreme weather.

Disruptions caused by things like extreme weather, airport or air traffic control employee strikes or other ‘extraordinary circumstances’ are not eligible for compensation.

Some airlines may stretch the definition of “extraordinary circumstances” but you can challenge them through the aviation regulator the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).

Will my insurance cover me if my flight is cancelled?

If you can’t claim compensation directly through the airline, your travel insurance may refund you.

Policies vary so you should check the small print, but a delay of eight to 12 hours will normally mean you qualify for some money from your insurer.

Remember to get written confirmation of your delay from the airport as your insurer will need proof.

If your flight is cancelled entirely, you’re unlikely to be covered by your insurance.

MAYA Jama has spoken out about her return to the small screen after signing a huge deal with streaming giant Netflix.

The former Love Island host, who this week stepped down from the ITV dating show, revealed on Monday that she had signed an impressive seven-figure multi-project deal.

Now, Maya has hinted that her first role isn’t far away at all.

Taking to X, Maya re-shared a story about her Netflix deal and wrote: “won’t be off your screens for too long..@netflix”.

She also shared a selfie to Instagram from a dressing room which showed her holding a Netflix mug – proving she has already been filming for something.

Fans already know that Maya is set to appear in the third season of The Gentleman, which could be what she is referring to.

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Following the news of Maya’s new career path, a source told the The Sun: “Maya has signed a deal with Netflix, with a number of exciting new projects in the works.

“She’s become a huge pull for them on The Gentleman and she is excited to throw herself into something new with the leap.

“It’s a huge 7 figure global deal.

“Further details of the specific projects are being kept under wraps for now.”

Maya has also bagged herself a deal with one of the States’ biggest talent agencies, William Morris Endeavour.

She signed with the powerhouse of a management company which is best known for representing stars including Idris Elba, Olivia Rodrigo and the entire Kardashian family to name just a few.

Coronation Street star Jodie Prenger has addressed that her character Glenda Shuttleworth is in for romance on the cobbles next year but that a huge twist is in store

Coronation Street star Jodie Prenger has revealed that her character Glenda Shuttleworth is in for romance on the cobbles – but there’s a twist.

The actress, 49, has played the Rovers barmaid on the long-running ITV soap since 2022 and on Monday night, a special episode involving Debbie Webster and her girlfriends ended with Glenda on the phone to a mystery man after talking about how she had been so unlucky in love.

The episode was full of tension as Christina Boyd (Amy Robbins) came to terms with the fact her daughter Rachel, whom she gave up for adoption more than 30 years ago, had been murdered.

Since then, Christina’s long-lost granddaughter Lucy has been placed in the care of Sally and Tim Metcalfe and Sally has forbidden Christina to see her. In the episode, Glenda made it quite clear that she was siding with Sally, and Christina argued with her that she would never understand because she doesn’t have any children.

Jodie, whose character was introduced as the sister of George Shuttleworth (Tony Maudsley), has teased that whilst there will be love on the cards for her alter-ego, a lot of it will fill in her backstory and it will explain a lot.

Speaking about the new storyline Jodie told The Mirror: “It’s good. Do you know, it’s funny, it’s one of the things, if you’re out, a lot of people do say, and it really warms your heart, going, “When are you going to get a fella?” And I go, “I don’t know!” But yeah, this—it is on the horizon, so looking forward to that.

“I think a lot of it explains why Glenda is how she is. I think that’s great. I think it’s—you come and you bed a character in, and then you really get to find out the nitty-gritty of why they are how they are, because we’re not just all put here, are we?

“We’re made here, and we’re made by the situations in life. And I think it’s going to be really cool telling Glenda’s backstory.”

Viewers won’t get to see exactly what happens until early next year, but in terms of the festive period, Jodie, who has also had a huge career in musical theatre, said that ex-cruise ship singer Glenda will be keeping the Weatherfield residents entertained with her singing and that there is more coming up on-screen for her local drama group.

She added: “I think it’ll all kick off after [Christmas]. But there is a bit—there is a bit of singing! There is a bit of singing around the festive period, let’s put it that way.

“There’s some stuff with Little Big Shots as well. I forget! I forget when I film so much, but there’s quite a lot coming up for Glenda.”

Coronation Street airs weeknights at 8:30pm on ITV1 and ITV X.

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WE blindly trust pilots to get us from A to B – but how hard do they have to work to earn their seat at the front of the plane?

British Airways trains its pilots in a huge 1950s aircraft hangar at Heathrow Airport, which felt more like you’re on the set of Star Wars.

There’s no Luke Skywalker here, but it is impressively large, as one of the biggest dedicated airline training centres in Europe.

The huge building houses numerous giant pods on stilts, some moving around like an alien out of a sci-fi film.

These are the simulators – sims for short – where pilots spend hours taking off, flying and landing across different routes to gain experience.

Narrow bridges led to each white pod and inside, it looks just like a cockpit of the plane – replicated down to every single button.

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The only difference is there’s a third seat for an instructor, who controls the scenarios played out on a 200-degree screen that displays different airports, routes and weather conditions.

Every active BA pilot returns to the simulator hall twice a year to refresher training – and they invited me down to test how difficult it could possibly be.

Although faced with a million buttons, levers and switches, for takeoff I didn’t use nearly as many as I thought – I had to line up a circle with the centre line and adjust the control column with fractional movements.

Lifting off the pedal beneath my toes and nudging the throttles, I felt the seat rumble beneath me as eyes remained glued to the runway markings whizzing past, waiting for the magic words from the instructor, beside me.

“Rotate,” the instructor Chris Holden, Head of Flight Crew at British Airways and a Training Captain on the airline’s Boeing 787 and Boeing 777 fleets, yelled. That was my cue.

I gently pulled back on the control column and held it, and suddenly the plane was pulling up into the air, with the tarmac runway below quickly disappearing.

And we were in the air – complete with the grumble of tucking in the landing gear and the regular tremble of turbulence.

Once we levelled off above the clouds, I used the time cruising through the sky to grill the instructor and pilot about what really happens at 36,000 feet…

The truth about turbulence

First on my list was a thing all passengers hate – turbulence.

James Bushe, First Officer said: “A few bumps is completely normal – it’s no different to being in a boat on a slightly choppy sea – the boat rocks, but it’s safe.”

But what about dramatic mid-air storms? Especially ones we have seen in the news this year causing passengers to become injured during turbulence.

James added: “There isn’t any weather that scares us because we’re trained to avoid it, not react to it.”

Pilots will use real-time radar and live weather charts to see storms ahead of reaching them.

They will then adjust the course appropriately, sometimes even steering hundreds of miles around a storm.

What if an engine fails?

And when it comes to other nightmare scenarios, such as losing an engine over the ocean, there is an answer.

James explained: “Every commercial aircraft is certified to safely fly on one engine at all times.”

“They are designed to withstand huge forces, huge pressures that are beyond which anything, any beyond any level of turbulence that you would ever ordinarily encounter.”

There are also strict safety corridors across the Atlantic, which means planes are within safe gliding or diversion distance of an emergency runway.

He added: “From a passenger perspective, there’s absolutely nothing to worry about.

“We discuss our diversion plan on every single flight during cruise.”

Flying secrets

Perhaps naively, I thought pilots kick back once at altitude with a cuppa and the newspaper.

Wrong – instead they monitor everything from fuel burn to how hot or cold the cabin is.

James said: “Most of the physical flying is takeoff and landing.

“The work in between is constantly planning for what we would do if something went wrong.

“Even on a crystal-clear, sunny day, we are constantly working to ensure we have a safe plan of where to go.”

Now comfortably at 36,000 feet and set to cruise all the way to Melbourne, Australia – British Airways’ new route launching in January – I was starting to think, how do I remain comfortable during hours of flying?

James said: “I think for a passenger, you’ve got to do whatever makes you feel best and stick to your routine.

“So for passengers who are travelling through the night, have dinner and go to bed as normal.”

And there is even something you can do to avoid jet lag.

“I just drink a load of water. That’s the secret to feeling good when you get off the plane,” he shared.

Making the most of flying

Having travelled all over the globe, James knows a thing or two about making the most of your experience.

James revealed: “Always do a little search for whatever you want to buy to see if you can get a better deal in the local area.

“Because nine times out of ten you can’t in duty free.

“But if you do end up in duty free, always find something that is really specific to the local area and you can either sort of eat, drink or share with your friends.”

Just because your holiday is finished doesn’t mean you can’t have anymore fun.

James said: “Contrary to belief, you can still visit the flight deck.

“Make sure to come at the end of a flight after landing, as we usually have more time and ask the cabin crew first.

“Pilots love aeroplanes and love talking about aeroplanes – so ask us anything because there’s nothing that makes me feel more excited about the job than somebody else asking me about the job.

“Look at all the controls and all the displays and ask away – there is no such thing as a silly question.

“Oh and don’t leave without getting a picture in the pilot’s seat.”

Make sure to look at a pilot’s uniform as well – the captain will have four stripes and everything else varies by airline.

Don’t discredit UK airports either, instead explore them, James recommends.

He shared: “Having experienced airports all over the world now, I would say that the standard of Heathrow is one of the best in the world.

“From the air traffic control in the air, from the moment you reach the channel and get back into UK airspace to the second you reach the gates, it is like a well-oiled machine.

“And once you’re in the air always look out the window – you never know what you might see, such as the Northern Lights or the snowcapped Rockies.”

ROBBIE WILLIAMS has come under fire after he ‘threw shade’ at popstar Olivia Rodrigo. 

The singer, 52, received backlash from fans who branded him as ‘pathetic’, following the online buzz from his hit track being compared to her new Christmas song.

Olivia, 23, sent fans into a frenzy after releasing a brand new Christmas track titled Take Me Home 4 Christmas.

The single was written by the star herself and is her first holiday song ever.

Alongside it she posted a music video inspired by The Family Stone featuring Cynthia Nixon and Ben Marshall. 

The track has been a big hit with fans with the video sitting at over three million views online. 

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But some listeners have now compared the song to the hit Robbie Williams single Candy. 

There have been many videos uploaded of the tracks overlapping to what some people think are similar notes and melodies. 

The videos caught the attention of Robbie himself who has taken to X to have his say on the discourse. 

In a post he simply wrote: “Happy Christmas @oliviarodrigo x”

Fans rushed to the comments convinced the Angels hitmaker was throwing shade at Olivia. 

One user commented: “You’re grown a** man shading a 23yo on twitter, aren’t you pathetic.”

Another added: “No shade because I love candy, but I doubt Olivia has ever even heard it?”

“You didn’t have to step so low. Shading a 23 years old girl is embarrassing as hell,” penned a third. 

Others agreed that the song was in fact copied, with one fan commenting: “Could be a great Christmas for you Rob, get those copyright lawyers on speed dial! 

“I love you @robbiewilliams !! Ask for sampling rights,” said another.

“How’s this shade ? am I missing something,”replied a third.

GARDEN centres are no longer just a place to pick up some plants – they’re a whole day out for the family.

This only ramps up when Christmas rolls around, and one has been named the best for a festive visit.

Garsons Garden Centre in Esher was named The Best Christmas Garden Centre in the UK 2025, having won it for a number of years before as well.

The garden centre has a new themed area every year, with last year seeing a huge The Wonderful World of Oz event, complete with massive hot air balloon display and green decorations throughout.

This year, themed areas at the garden centre include Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, The Queen of Hearts, Sing a Song of Sixpence, Little Miss Muffet, Down at The Station, Jingle Bells, We Went to the Animal Fair and Sing a Rainbow.

You can expect fully decked out scenes with fake snow and twinkling lights.

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In previous years, scenes have included the tin man from the Wizard of Oz as well as a multicoloured igloo.

Of course, you can meet Father Christmas and his elves as well, inside a cabin decked out with colourful lights.

Each child who visits Santa will get a gift as well as a chance to snap a photo.

The experience costs £15.50 per child.

Across the festive period, there are a load of workshops visitors can attend as well including wreath making sessions and calligraphy classes.

After exploring the garden centre and all the Christmas attractions make sure to visit the farm shop with Christmas food, gifts and seasonal products.

For a bite to eat, you can visit The Orangery restaurant which is inspired by Garsons 150-year farming history as a supplier to Borough Market in London.

The restaurant is inside a huge glass conservatory and serves up full-English breakfasts as well as Sunday roast dinners.

The popular market is back for 2026

A hugely popular Christmas market has returned with over 200 stalls. Christmas is almost upon us, with towns and cities across the UK set to be transformed for the festive season.

For one UK city, Christmas has already begun as its markets open today (Friday, November 6). Manchester Christmas Markets is bringing festive shopping, food and drink to the streets of the city.

Wooden chalets line parts of Manchester, where visitors can shop for handmade gifts, artisan products, and international food and drink, as well as take part in family-friendly festive experiences.

Albert Square will be at the heart of the festivities, hosting the 50-metre-high Ferris wheel and a pop-up pub. Manchester’s Giant Santa will also make a comeback alongside a vintage Helter-Skelter.

This year marks the first for a new tree installation with a life-sized selfie sleigh. Over at Cathedral Gardens sits Skate MCR, an undercover ice-skating rink with additional stalls.

In a month’s time, the Manchester Christmas Parade will take place, with more details about the event to come on Sunday, December 6. Overall, the markets will be home to 210 stalls across 10 different city centre sites.

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Where is the Manchester Christmas Market?

The market is spread across the city centre as hundreds of stalls make up the festive atmosphere. This year, locations include Albert Square, Lincoln Square, King Street, St Ann’s Square, Exchange Street, New Cathedral Street, Exchange Square, Corn Exchange, Cathedral Gardens, and Market Street.

When does the market open?

Manchester Christmas Markets will open on Friday, November 6 and run until Tuesday, December 22. The festivities at Albert Square and Cathedral Gardens will remain open throughout the Christmas period until Sunday, January 3.

Meanwhile, Skate MCR ice rink will be open from Friday, November 6 to Sunday, January 3. The market is open seven days a week from 10am until 9pm.

How much is Manchester Christmas Market?

It is free to visit Manchester Christmas Market and you do not need a ticket to enter.

How to get to Manchester Christmas Market

Manchester Christmas Market is best accessed by public transport as Manchester city centre is served by trains, trams and buses. Manchester’s Victoria and Piccadilly Stations are an easy walk to the markets.

Trams and buses on the Bee Network run every 12 minutes, and are said to be the “easiest, cheapest and fastest” way to get to the markets.

Roads and car parks are said to be very busy, with the option of using Greater Manchester’s Park & Ride locations instead. There are multiple car parks within a walking distance of the markets, with Piccadilly Plaza and Chorlton Street being the closest.

For the past 30 years, Mark Gregory’s Air Salvage International (ASI) has been assessing, chopping up, disassembling, and recycling planes at the private airfield, which sits two miles from Kemble in Gloucestershire

Milo Boyd Deputy Travel Editor & Commercial Writer

08:51, 06 Nov 2026

Where do planes go when they die? For the past 30 years, Mark Gregory’s Air Salvage International (ASI) has been assessing, chopping up, disassembling, and recycling planes at the ends of their lives at the private airfield, which sits two miles from Kemble in Gloucestershire.

Armed with redundancy money in the early ’90s, Mark bought his first plane and spent six months breaking it down into sellable bits. More than 1,400 aircraft later, the business is thriving and employs dozens of people to meet the growing demand of the ever-expanding aviation industry.

And there are big bucks at stake. The equivalent of a commercial jet’s MOT costs around £1 million, which is why many plane owners decide to send their ageing aircraft to Mark instead. Sometimes, as much as £12 million can be salvaged from them, either as reusable parts or as recyclable materials.

There are a few other strings to the business’s bow, Mark explained as he took me on a tour around the facility. ASI puts on dramatic training scenarios for organisations including the SAS, helping them practise plane-related emergencies. One mock-up situation had Mark and his team crush a van with a plane fuselage, creating a tricky day out for the special forces, who also had to deal with hijackers and “injured” passengers on board.

One particularly interesting aircraft that ended up with Mark is a VIP-fitted Boeing 727 that was once part of Saddam Hussein’s fleet, after he instructed Iraqi Airways to steal all of Kuwait Airways’ planes during its 1990 invasion of the country.

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SOUTHAMPTON Airport is set to undergo a massive expansion and it is good news for travellers.

The airport has announced plans to expand its passenger terminal by 800 square metres, to handle nearly three times as many passengers per flight.

The expanded terminal would allow the airport to host larger aircrafts, capable of carrying around 200 passengers.

Planes at the airport currently, have around 70 seats.

The bigger planes would include Airbus A320s and Boeing 737s and could lead to new routes from the airport in the future.

Currently, inside the terminal up to 200 passengers may need to wait in a pre-controlled boarding area while other passengers get off the plane.

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The expansion would also help with this, creating more space for passengers to move around.

The extension would be built in the area next to the existing terminal building.

Previously plans suggested that a passenger walkway would also be added to the airport, as well as a new domestic baggage reclaim.

The airport already underwent a runway expansion of 164 metres in 2023.

The airport currently serves between 800,000 to 900,000 passengers a year and heads to 15 destinations including Paris, Mallorca and Barcelona.

Airlines that operate from the airport include Aer Lingus, Easyjet, KLM and Loganair.

A HOLIDAY park left abandoned for two decades on the Isle of Wight is set to be transformed into the ultimate luxury coastal escape.

Previously known as Atherfield Bay Holiday Camp and abandoned since 2007, the site is now being redeveloped by Evergreen Escapes as the Isle of Wight Resort.

Overlooking Atherfield Bay, the new multi-million holiday park is set to open in April 2027.

According to the resort’s website, it will be a “peaceful haven, where sweeping sea views and star-filled skies go hand-in-hand with exceptional accommodation and five-star facilities”.

The multi-million pound project includes building 63 luxury lodges with sea views.

There will be two options – Elite and Signature.

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Elite lodges will feature either two or three bedrooms sleeping up to six people, with an open plan living and dining space, as well as a private outdoor decking.

On the other hand, Signature lodges will be slightly more luxury, sleeping up to eight people across four bedrooms.

The living and dining space will be open plan like the Elite lodges, but guests can also expect pops of colour or feature walls.

All the lodges are dog friendly and if you do bring you beloved pooch, they will get their very own welcome pack.

There will be a welcome pack for the humans too though, with Isle of Wight goodies.

Each lodge will have Rituals smellies and luxury robes and slippers too.

All of the lodges will be be self-catered accommodation.

Also on-site will be an indoor swimming pool, – perfect for the colder winters months – as well as a sauna, steam room and a gym.

At the centre of the resort, The Wight Isle Lounge will serve hot drinks, alcoholic drinks, snacks and fresh pizzas.

Local residents will also be able to use the entire holiday park.

And discounted ferry tickets will be available to staying guests.

Bookings are currently open for stays from April 2027, with 38 out of the 63 lodges available to rent (the rest will be for sale).

Geoff Cowley, CEO of Evergreen Escapes Group, said: “The Isle of Wight Resort will be a fantastic addition to the Island’s already thriving hospitality scene when it opens.

“Not just because we’re investing in high-end accommodation and facilities, but also because we’ll be investing in the resort team.

“We’ve already filled a number of senior roles but are actively looking for others to join us and showcase the best the Island has to offer for guests and owners alike.”

Evergreen Escapes also has plans for another 15 to 20 resorts over the next five years.

The Isle of Wight Resort will follow Evergreen Escapes acquiring Manor and Ashbury Resorts in Devon and Doublebois Lodge Escape and St Mabyn Lodge Escape, in Cornwall.

ASK most kids if they fancy a trip to an art exhibition and you’re unlikely to get an overly-enthusiastic answer. 

But what if that art exhibition included a ball pit, an enormous bouncy castle and flying balloons? You might suddenly have a mini art critic on your hands. 

Step in the Balloon Museum, which last graced the UK in 2023 with its EmotionAir: Art you can feel exhibition at Old Billingsgate in 2023. 

It’s now back, this time at Immerse London on Excel Waterfront with its latest offering EUPHOЯIA – Art is in the Air. 

The concept of the Balloon Museum is that it’s a new way to experience contemporary art, with large-scale installations created by international artists including Turner Prize winner Martin Creed. 

EUPHOЯIA in particular, invites those artists to use air and inflatable materials “as a contemporary artistic language” that “invites visitors to explore, interact and see the familiar in unexpected ways.” 

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It’s fair to say all of this went entirely over my seven year old’s head on our visit, both literally and figuratively speaking. 

Because while it might be about art, it’s also A LOT of fun. 

Our first stop was a giant glass-walled room filled with enormous balloons that you have to push your way through to reach the end. 

There was also a room filled with large inflatable cubes that we used to build an enormous fort, one with an enormous bed that could fit 20 people and a giant Covid virus-style inflatable, among others. 

But our favourites were the huge ball pit bigger than a ballroom, the most enormous bouncy castle I’ve ever seen – at least 25m in length and filled with inflatables, a balloon whirlwind and a very clever mechanical tree that dropped bubbles filled with smoke. 

Of course, all of this also made for some incredible photo opportunities too. 

We’ve got about a gazillion grinning selfies from our visit – the hallmark of every great Millennial day out.  

So will my son now be requesting a membership to the Tate Modern on his Santa List? Probably not. 

But he will definitely be far more open to my next suggestion of a trip to a gallery… how to explain there won’t be any inflatables to play with once there is another matter altogether. 

Tickets for EUPHOЯIA – Art is in the Air at ExCeL London, Royal Victoria Dock, from £20 for children and £26 for adults, with family tickets from £59.

WINTER is coming – and it’s bringing a whole host of scenic travel destinations with it. 

France’s Strasbourg is top of holidaymakers’ hotlists, according to the latest Tripadvisor Travel Index, while Tromsø in Norway is creeping up the popularity scale. 

The travel report revealed the most up-and-coming holiday spots for this season, based on search data for breaks between November 1 this year and February 28, 2027. 

Here Sophie Swietochowski shares her pick of the most popular holiday packages this winter. 

STRASBOURG, FRANCE 

SO much for Paris — the Notre Dame Cathedral in Strasbourg is just as glorious.

It was named among the top experiences in France in the 2026 Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice awards.

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The city’s Christmas market is one of the oldest in Europe, founded in 1570, and is home to more than 300 traditional wooden stalls.  

Strasbourg’s Franco-German cuisine is just what you would fancy during the colder months — hearty and comforting.

Think casseroles and lots of potatoes. 

GO: Five nights’ room-only at the 4* Okko Hotels Strasbourg Centre is from £559pp including flights from Luton on December 27.

Save £100 now with code BLKFRIDAY. See easyjet.com/en/holidays. 

TROMSØ, NORWAY 

THIS area, AKA the Gateway to the Arctic, was crowned second most popular spot for this winter.

While its location means that during winter, the sun never rises above the horizon, that doesn’t mean you need to hunker down inside — far from it. 

Among popular activities to try are dog or reindeer sledding, whale watching, snowmobiling, ski touring and fishing in the icy fjords.  

It’s also one of the best spots in the world to catch the Northern Lights in all their colourful glory. 

GO: Five nights’ room-only at the 4* Moxy Tromsø is from £909pp including flights from Gatwick on January 17.

See loveholidays.com. 

GHENT, BELGIUM 

THE nearby hotspots of Bruges and Brussels typically steal the limelight when it comes to winter getaways. 

And that’s just why Ghent should be top of your list.

The fact it is less crowded means you can explore its Gothic and medieval architecture at leisure, although it’s best to do so at night when the intricate alleyways and twisted spires are illuminated by spotlights, giving the spires an even more dramatic appearance against the night sky. 

Ghent’s winter festival, which operates throughout December and into early January, is magical, with a mini ice rink, ferris wheel and rows of stalls that lead from the canal to the central square. 

GO: Seven nights’ room-only at the 3* Hotel Gravensteen is from £489pp including flights from Heathrow on November 26.

See loveholidays.com. 

SAARISELKA, FINLAND 

IF Tromsø’s coastal location doesn’t tickle your fancy, then Saariselka, where earthy pine woodlands are buried in deep powdery snow, just might.  

Make sure to stay in a glass igloo — after all, this is the place where they were popularised. And what a spot for them.  

From your bed, you have high chances of spotting the aurora borealis painted across the night sky.  

Make sure to test out the longest toboggan track in Europe, which stretches 1.8km from the summit of Kaunispaa mountain.

Then warm up those chilled bones in a traditional Finnish sauna. 

GO: Three nights’ B&B at the 3* Holiday Club Saariselka is from £914pp including flights from Gatwick on November 29.

See tui.co.uk. 

CHAMONIX, FRANCE 

A COSY and typically French resort town, Chamonix has maintained its traditional charm, despite having sparked the big ski boom. 

And unlike the purpose-built ski resorts, this town is vast and sprawling, with lots of wooden chalets dotted around.  

While it is a destination that is known for its skiing, there is still plenty else to do in winter.  

Le Pas Dans Le Vide is an awesome glass skywalk, suspended at an altitude of metres, at the summit of Aiguille du Midi.

It gives visitors the thrilling sensation of floating above the spectacular Bossons Glacier.  

There are also ice caves and ice sculptures and you can dig in to some of the best cheesy raclette in the country. 

GO: Seven nights’ self-catering at the 3* Residence Pierre & Vacances La Riviere is from £551pp, including flights from Gatwick on January 2, plus 20kg luggage per person.

See crystalski.co.uk. 

A HUGE new attraction with six immersive zones including a ride and even a waterpark is set to open in Europe.

Called Dracula Land, the theme park has been dubbed Transylvanian Disneyland and is set to be built at the cost of €1billion (£835million).

Plans are still in early stages to build Dracula Land in Bucharest which is one of the cheapest cities in Romania.

It hopes to one day be “the largest entertainment, retail, and technology destination on the continent, transforming the country into a new global entertainment hub“.

It will have everything from a theme park and waterpark to spa, shops, arena, hotels and a tech hub – all of which will be within six themed zones.

The first is the Moonlit District which will be the point of entry for guests where they’ll step through onto the main street.

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Rides include a Flying Theatre and a Transylvanian Railway, as well as carousels, drone shows and a Legend of Vlad walkthrough experience

The main street which will have shops and dining will remain open into the evening.

The Family Kingdom will have an immersive zone where visitors can meet ‘legendary figures’ from vampires to ghouls.

It will also have a dark ride, 4D cinema, bat ride, toddler play zone and live entertainment.

The Transylvania area will ‘bring the legendary land of Dracula to life’.

Here there are plans for a water ride, dark ride set in a forest, a mountain coaster as well as a village playground and market.

Dracula’s Castle will be at the very centre of the theme park. Surrounded by a lake, it will have a maze, ancient ruins and dining in the Great Hall.

The Port of New Orleans is inspired by Mardi Gras and will be French-inspired.

There will be dining on a riverboat, as well as rides, shops and a werewolf coaster.

London Town will be familiar to Brits as it will transform into a busy street with red telephone boxes.

There will be plenty of shopping for souvenirs, with Victorian London inspirations as well as a theatre, horse and carriage ride and “vampire hunter training”.

Outside of the theme park will also be a waterpark and thermal spa, which will have 30 water attractions including what it claims will be one of Europe‘s biggest wave pools.

On-site are set to be three hotels, the four-star Dracula Grand Hotel, a three-star plus Dracula Family Hotel and the three-star Dracula Hotel.

Together, there will be space for 1,200 rooms.

Other facilities include an artificial ski slope for winter sports, a racing track, motor park and tech hub.

There’s also plans for an arena which will be the ‘most immersive’ in southeastern Europe.

It will have 22,500 seats for concerts, festivals and sporting competitions.

Dracula Land will also have its own “metaverse” with DraculaCoin native tokens which can be used across the digital and physical ‘metaverse’ world.

Dragoș Dobrescu, founder of Dracula Land, said: “Dracula Land brings together everything I’ve learned in real estate: discipline, rigor, vision, and the ability to keep complex teams with very different specializations together. 

“But more importantly, it adds a story that gives meaning to every square meter built. 

“For me, Dracula Land is a national project—a symbol that Romania can and must build landmarks, not just buildings or simple real estate projects.”

Currently, the master plan for the first phase is being finalised, and negotiations with investors are ongoing, so there are no details on when it could open.

Although when it does, the good news for Brits is that flights to Bucharest are cheap with return flights for as little as £45.

WHILE Guy Fawkes prepared to blow up King James I and his government with a deadly haul of explosives under the Houses of Parliament, a sprawling country estate 100 miles away was poised to become a crucial yet little-known part of the Gunpowder Plot.

James’ nine-year-old daughter Elizabeth lived at magnificent Coombe Abbey near Coventry and Fawkes’s co-conspirators had planned to kidnap her and install her on the throne as a puppet queen.

An anonymous letter rumbled the London end of the plan while, in Warwickshire, the plotters – led by Robert Catesby – abandoned the kidnapping on hearing about the failure.

To this day, the foiled plot is commemorated with fireworks and bonfires on November 5.

And Coombe Abbey is now a magnificent hotel worthy of its regal connections.

Built by Cistercian monks in 1150, it became the biggest abbey in Warwickshire before being seized during Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries.

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Later it was sold to nobleman John Harington, who agreed to act as Elizabeth’s guardian, raising and educating her at his home.

In a rather peculiar twist four centuries later, Game Of Thrones star Kit Harington, a descendant of Catesby, played his ancestor in BBC One drama Gunpowder.

Guests arriving at the hotel nowadays pass over its ancient moat then enter through the original stone cloisters, where a pulpit still stands.

You can take a pew on an ornately carved throne-like chair, admire the hanging wall tapestries and marble busts or examine the tomb of murdered monk Abbot Geoffrey, whose cloaked figure is said to still roam.

Fittingly, our room for our night’s stay was The Princess Elizabeth, decked out in deep mulberries and glimmering golds and with an oak four-poster bed set upon a plinth.

Luxurious floor-to-ceiling curtains embossed with the same heraldic design as the wallpaper enhance the royal feel, while the bathroom with roll-top bath and golden taps also adds to the drama.

The hotel lies in 500 acres of parkland, set to host a mile-long light festive trail throughout December.

Little ones will love the Hermit’s Hollow play area and families can enjoy Go Ape adventures.

Nearby Coventry is full of medieval buildings and cobbled lanes.

The ruins of its 14th-century cathedral – bombed during World War Two – are preserved alongside a modern replacement, as a symbol of peace and reconciliation.

Coventry Transport Museum is brimming with bikes and vehicles that have helped shape the world including ThrustSSC, the fastest-ever car.

Lesser known but eye-wateringly beautiful is St Mary’s Guildhall.

Built in the 1340s for traders and crafts people, it’s re-opened after a £6.2million refurbishment.

The Great Hall has hosted monarchs and its intricate stained glass windows and painted wood carvings in the roof are breathtaking.

There’s also a rare nine-metre tapestry from the early 1500s depicting Henry VI, who moved his royal court to Coventry, effectively making it England’s capital.

Uncovering another secret gem was the perfect end to a historic stay.

HELEN Flanagan revealed a telling mark on her neck while celebrating Halloween with friends on Thursday evening.

The former Coronation Street star was in attendance as lingerie brand Ann Summers hosted an elaborate party in honour of the spooky season at raunchy London nightspot The Box.

Drawing inspiration from lovelorn Wuthering Heights character Catherine Earnshaw, Helen, 36, commanded attention in a cleave-enhancing corset and red skirt as she let her hair down at the Soho venue.

But it was a decorative vampire bite that caught the eye, with social media followers speculating that Helen – who is believed to be single – may well be brandishing a love bite.

Commenting on the costume detail, one follower wrote: “What u done to your neck?” [sic]

While a second added: “Who bit your neck?” Elsewhere, a third posted: “Ooft, the neck lol.” [sic]

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‘LITTLE SOLDIER’

Helen Flanagan’s son rushed to hospital and hooked up to oxygen mask

Helen’s night out comes after former fiancé Scott Sinclair revealed son Charlie, five – the youngest of their three children – has needed hospital treatment.

The ex-footballer, who also shares daughters Matilda, 11, and Delilah, eight with the actress, posted a photo of their son in his hospital bed on Wednesday.

“My little soldier,” captioned Scott over the snap, which saw Charlie giving a thumbs up as he used an oxygen mask.

The father-of-three did not share what had happened to his son or if they were to remain in hospital.

Helen and Scott were together for 13-years and engaged for four before ending their relationship in October 2022.

They have since had a strained relationship whilst co-parenting their family – often taking swipes at one another online.

Helen was forced to move out of their family home earlier this year, which was solely owned by Scott, as the footballer decided to sell it.

She spoke openly about not wanting to move and about the ‘stress’ downsizing had caused.