huge

With this new four-game window presenting something different for managers across Europe to tackle, a myriad of approaches emerged.

Germany boss Jurgen Klopp named virtually two separate squads for his side’s two pairs of games, while Ukraine made 10 changes between their first two games and then nine for their defeat by Northern Ireland.

Having spoken before the start of the campaign about how the condensed schedule would be more difficult for smaller nations, O’Neill kept changes to a minimum.

He started only 15 different players across the four games with two of his changes enforced by Ballard’s injury and Ethan Galbraith’s absence against Ukraine to attend the birth of his child.

Despite the relatively small pool of starters, this still feels like a window when Northern Ireland’s depth was tested and passed with flying colours.

O’Neill was without talisman Bradley and the reliable Ali McCann coming into the window, and then lost Ballard to a hamstring injury after the first game in Tbilisi.

Young centre-backs McConville, 21, and Tom Atcheson, 20, looked ready to play at this level, while Ciaron Brown started all four games and drew plaudits having often had to bide his time in past squads.

Kieran Morrison, Terry Devlin and Brodie Spencer all impressed when given a chance against Ukraine.

O’Neill’s praise for his squad is across the board.

“For me it’s been one of the most enjoyable windows I’ve had as an international manager, and that’s been because of the players,” said O’Neill.

“How they’ve applied themselves, how desperate they are to do well, that’s a real positive.

“We’ve a brilliant group of players and a lot of them I think will play international football for a long time.”

Big Brother continues to deliver plenty of drama and chaos as viewers are once again invested in another series

Big Brother’s first ever winner is looking almost unrecognisable decades on from their £70k success.

The hit social experiment has once again returned to screens, bringing with it plenty of drama and chaos as regular people from across the UK move in to the iconic house where they will live for several weeks.

However, before the reality show made its iconic return to ITV, Big Brother had originally launched on Channel 4 screens back in 2000, before making its way to Channel 5 during its third series in 2002.

There has been plenty of iconic moments throughout Big Brother, with the show remaining a firm favourite amongst viewers as housemates face brutal tasks and weekly evictions. But as a brand new series continues, with the new housemates hoping to leave their mark, we have taken a look back at the show’s first ever winner, including his most iconic moment.

Who won the first ever Big Brother?

Craig Phillips was the first ever contestant to win Big Brother UK back in 2000, making history from the launch show. The then-builder from Liverpool saw his life change after 64 days in the iconic house, winning a staggering £70,000 cash prize.

At just 28 years old at the time, Craig became a firm favourite in the Big Brother house where he stayed alongside Nick Bateman (then known as ‘nasty Nick’) as well as Melanie Hill. His success also continued when he won a National Television Award for Best Live Television Moment of the Year.

What did Craig Phillips do with his Big Brother prize money?

After winning the £70,000 cash prize, Craig decided to put his winnings to a good cause, donating it to his friend Joanna Harris who had Down’s Syndrome, to pay for her heart and lung transplant.

According to the official Craig Phillips website: “He had begun raising money with friends for Harris sometime before entering Big Brother, raising only small amounts of money towards the £250,000 needed for her operation in the USA, but within 6 days of winning he achieved the target required for her life saving operation thanks to public support and generous donations from celebrities.”

Craig has worked closely with a variety of charities, often taking part in fundraising events such as abseiling one of London’s tallest buildings as well as sky diving.

Where is Craig Phillips now?

Since his Big Brother success, Craig Phillips has far from faded from the spotlight. He has gone on to build a successful career as a property developer, DIY expert and television presenter, famed for popular shows such as 60 Minute Makeover and Trading Up.

He has also not been a stranger to reality TV, having raised £40,000 for charity from Back to Reality as well as appearing on Ant and Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway

Fans may not have realised he turned his attention to music, releasing a charity single for Christmas 2000, which reached the charts, raising tens of thousands for the Down’s Syndrome Association.

Right now though, the former Big Brother winner lives in Spain with his family having also launched the Mr & Mrs DIY TV channel alongside wife Laura.

Craig Phillips’ most ‘iconic’ Big Brother moments

Arguably his most iconic moment was his confrontation with Nick Bateman, then nicknamed Nasty Nick. After Nick was seen breaking the rules, Craig gathered the housemates calling for an intervention before going face to face with his co-star.

Another iconic moment was causing mass panic on Ultimate Big Brother when he gate crashed and staged an eviction.

With millions of people tuning in to the live final, Craig made history winning the first ever Big Brother series as he stepped out to a huge crowned, later earning him the National Television Award.

Speaking to Channel 4 back in 2020, Craig was asked what it was like winning Big Brother as he replied: “This is a question I’ve been asked thousands of times and if I am being honest it’s so hard to answer! Because it was and still is the most surreal moment and experience, I’ve ever had!

“It was the ultimate combination of emotional highs as well as a scary situation to be in – once I’d stepped out the door I started to live a life that most people dreamed of having, almost the entire country knew my name and appeared to love me!

“Every A-List celeb I chatted to became my friend, people and companies were paying me obscene amounts of money to be associated with them, I had bodyguards that chauffeured me around day by day and we changed hotel every night for month and months!”

Big Brother continues tonight at 9pm on ITV2 and ITVX

THEY rose to fame in the Noughties with No1 hit Pure And Simple.

Now, 25 years on, I can reveal that Hear’Say are reuniting for a huge reunion tour to celebrate the milestone.

The group formed on ITV reality television show Popstars and debuted in 2001.

Band members Kym Marsh, Myleene Klass, Suzanne Shaw, Noel Sullivan and Danny Foster split two years later after a couple of No1 singles and a chart-topping album.

But my sources tell me that I’m A Celebrity star Myleene will not be joining the reunion due to a schedule clash with her other commitments.

A source said: “The group have been asked multiple times over the years about a reunion but it was never the right time.

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“The 25th anniversary feels like a special moment to celebrate the success of the band and give something back to their fans. Myleene was invited but their diaries did not align.”

The band set tongues wagging this week as they reignited an Instagram page to tease their tour.

They posted a screen recording of a WhatsApp conversation between them, with Danny writing: “Wow . . . can you believe the response to that tour clip we posted?!”, referencing a video they had shared of an old performance. Suzanne replied: “I know right, amazing! Ahhh the memories . . . can you believe it was 25 years ago?!”

Noel said: “OK, so hear me out . . . ” Kym urged: “Go on,” before Noel added: “Fancy getting the band back together?”

Fans spotted how Myleene was included as a member of the group chat but her Instagram was not tagged and she did not send a message.

Myleene previously ruled out reuniting, saying: “If I go backwards, I won’t know who I am.

“I hope it works. I will be cheering the loudest.”

BIZ on Sunday is giving away two tickets to see Westlife in Birmingham this month.

The prize is for Westlife 25: The Anniversary World Tour on Saturday, October 17, at the Utilita Arena.

For your chance to win, email sundayfeatures@the-sun.co.uk and quote “Westlife” with your name, telephone number, email address and postal address.

Entries close at 11.59pm on Monday, October 5. T&Cs apply and can be found at thesun.co.uk.

GOLDEN CURL SABRINA

SABRINA CARPENTER shows off her golden locks in a new 1960s-themed haircare advert.

The Manchild hitmaker posed in a butter yellow mini dress to match her lush curls for the clip.

Sabrina, who is a global ambassador for Redken, said it is a “dream” to work with the brand.

She added: “Beauty, and especially my hair, is a big part of my identity.”

SHARON’S M25 ‘IRELAND’

Catastrophe star Sharon Horgan has landed a £250,000 payday to become the face of an airline.

The Irish actress filmed an ad for Ireland’s Aer Lingus to show off the beauty of the Emerald Isle – but eagle-eyed fans may notice it was set just a stone’s throw from the M25 in London.

I can reveal filming took place in Surrey’s Virginia Water, which boasts a lake, 30-foot waterfall and tree-lined pathways.

A source said: “Virginia Water is the backdrop, which gives the illusion of Ireland’s stunning scenery. It is an odd decision given how close Virginia Water is to London Heathrow.

“They could have jetted over to Ireland in less than an hour to film the advert there.”

Virginia Water is at the edge of Windsor Great Park, which is managed by The Crown Estate.

Sounds like a right royal mix up.

CHRIS’S BIG STORY ENDING

HIT drama Small Town, Big Story will not be back for a second series.

The show, which featured Mad Men actress Christina Hendricks, was a big success for Sky Atlantic when it aired last year.

But Irish actor and comedian Chris O’Dowd who created the show, says he’s too busy to make more.

At the opening night of play Hay Fever in the West End, he told me: “Getting everybody together is tricky with such a strong cast.”

He is now focusing on other projects, adding: “I’m going to be writing something else.

“I want to do more stuff in Ireland. All will be revealed.”

MICAH & GINGE LINING UP

ANGRY GINGE and Micah Richards are set to become the new Ant and Dec after filming a pilot for a Netflix gameshow called The Line.

The hilarious programme focuses on our love of queuing and sees contestants compete to win a cash prize of £250,000.

It’s set to be one of Angry Ginge’s biggest TV gigs since he won I’m A Celeb last year.

A source said: “The duo had so much fun filming and are hoping the show gets greenlit for a series.”

I hope content creators the Bov Boys don’t mind Micah nicking their head honcho.

LOUIS MANE ATTRACTION AFTER SPLIT

FORMER Olympic gymnast Louis Smith has signed up for dating app Hinge.

It comes after I revealed that the 2012 Strictly champion had split from jazz dancer Charlie Bruce.

On the app, Louis has revealed that he is Christian and is looking for monogamy.

He has also included a snap of him in his Carwash costume on ITV show The Masked Dancer, which he won in 2021.

A source said: “Louis and Charlie are focused on co-parenting their young daughters.

“Louis signed up for the app when he felt the time was right and is hoping to find new connections.”

Louis also made a flirty reference on Hinge to his skills on the pommel horse, which earned him three Olympic medals during his sporting career.

A note on his profile says: “Dating me is like . . . Riding a wild horse but on the world’s most comfortable saddle.”

Sounds like Louis is cantering into the dating pool.

DEJA VU have been given the seal of approval from The Pussycat Dolls.

Nicole Scherzinger has invited the girls to join her group on the European dates of their PCD Forever tour.

Deja Vu reached the semi-finals of The Voice in 2023.

Carolina said: “It still feels like a dream.”

ROCHELLE IS PERFECT MATCHA

ROCHELLE HUMES looked like the cat who got the cream as she launched her new venture.

Holding what appears to be an iced matcha, the ex-Saturdays singer wore a trench coat and matching top to promote beauty brand Eulah.

The “cashmere coconut lip blanket” is my fave.

IT’S GOOD news for travellers in the north as a regional airport left abandoned for four years is set to reopen.

Doncaster Sheffield Airport closed back in 2022 after becoming “commercially unviable” and has been left empty since.

But now the airport is set to reopen to passengers in 2028 as part of a £193million project.

The airport is home to one of the longest runways in Europe, measuring 2,893 metres, which means it could host big jets for long-haul routes.

Before it closed, the regional airport acted as a gateway to Europe for those living in the north.

Airlines that used to fly from the airport included TUI and Wizz Air.

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However, no airlines have been confirmed for the airport yet.

Christian Foster, Director of FlyDoncaster – the company set up to manage the airport – told Sun Travel: “It does feel like the world has changed post-Covid, whereas people were focused two weeks in Spain or Greece, nowadays we’re seeing a lot of people keen to take city breaks.

“We’d love to fly to places like Croatia, and other destinations that are a bit more quirky like Azerbaijan.

“We’re keen to look at emerging places to visit as well, like India.“

Inside, there are plans to fill the airport terminal with local businesses instead of your usual Costa or Starbucks.

There would be a mixture of restaurants, bars and shops.

Back in July, the airport also gained approval was given by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) to move forward with a public consultation.

During the public consultation, locals can express their opinions on the reopening of the airport before October 4.

In the airport’s latest update, three fire appliances have also been ordered for the airport ahead of its reopening next year and before welcoming passengers in 2028.

A PRETTY English seaside town could soon get a massive upgrade.

Gorleston in Norfolk is home to Gorleston-on-Sea Beach which was recently named one of Europe’s best beaches in Tripadvisor’s Travellers‘ Choice Awards.

And now the seaside destination could be getting even better with a new waterfront attraction.

The Ocean Room used to be a thriving nightclub with bands like Blur and Pink Floyd performing there.

Now, the council has sold the building for £500,000 with future plans looking to replace the building with a soft play area, indoor games space, a coffee shop and a wellness centre with a spa.

The surrounding area would be redeveloped too with connections to the nearby Gorleston Pavilion Theatre and the bandstand.

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If The Ocean Room was to be saved, the local council has estimated it would cost £1million to repair the building.

According to the BBC, the developer said: “The Ocean Room holds a special place in the hearts of many and the team recognises the building’s removal will be a source of genuine disappointment for the community.

“However, it should be noted that the council itself identified significant structural concerns with the building before the site was sold.”

While formal plans have not been submitted to the council yet, the round, Art Deco building could be facing its last days.

The Ocean Room originally opened back in 1939 and used to host dinner dances, boxing events, nightclub evenings and concerts.

It then closed in 2024 after its tenants went into administration and the building has remained empty since.

PAULTONS Park was recently named the best theme park in the country and it’s about to get even better.

The much-loved theme park in Hampshire has revealed plans for a huge new holiday village which will be the first on-site accommodation for guests.

The new holiday village will have a Scandinavian theme with 129 lodges, cabins and suites, ranging from two to four bedrooms.

The welcome building would act as a “gateway” to the village, with a bag drop-off area and a second entrance directly to the theme park.

A 400sqm restaurant will be part of the village, as well as a small supermarket-style shop.

The new village will also have an entertainment room, as well as a games room for indoor activities.

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James Mancey, deputy managing director at Paultons Park, said: “Our vision is to deliver 129 units, designed to comfortably accommodate just under 600 guests at full capacity, 100 guests fewer than previously outlined.

“We anticipate it will be several years before our vision for on-site accommodation is brought to fruition; however, we are committed to continually reinvesting in our attraction, providing a world-class experience for our guests, and planning for the long-term.”

It isn’t the only addition Paultons Park is planning either.

Set to open in 2027 is a new water coaster called Serpent’s Curse, with twists, a hill and a final lake plunge.

Overall, the water coaster will be 471-metres long and reach speeds of up to 44mph.

Talking about the new ride, Paultons has said it will be one of the ‘biggest rides ever built’ at the park.

The theme park was also recently named the Theme Park of the Year at the UK Theme Park Awards.

The park is home to more than 70 rides and attractions, including the recently opened Valgard: Realm of the Vikings, with Paultons Park’s first inverting coaster, Drakon.

MIS-TEEQ’S Sabrina Washington has made a huge U-turn as she AXES her own solo tour and issues a grovelling apology to fans after sparking mass confusion.

The singer has cancelled her upcoming tour just mere days after seemingly parting ways from the hit band and announcing her solo career plans.

Just days after Mis-teeq’s sold-out 25th anniversary reunion concert in London, Sabrina declared that there would be no further Mis-Teeq dates or new music – which left fans completely baffled.

But now she has sensationally backtracked on all of that.

In a statement shared on social media, Sabrina said: “I have been paying close attention to what people have been saying, reading the comments and trying to understand what you genuinely want to see from me.

“And one thing has come through very clearly: there is a strong desire to see the three of us perform Mis-Teeq’s greatest hits together again.”

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She went on: “Ultimately, I don’t want to push ahead with a solo tour when I know there is such a strong feeling among fans about seeing Mis-Teeq together again.

“So, with a heavy heart, I have decided that the right thing for me is to cancel the tour.”

Sabrina added: “This is not a decision I have taken lightly. But for me, the fans have to come first.”

She noted that although she is cancelling the tour, she is not putting her own music to one side.

“I have been working on new solo material,” she revealed in the statement.

She then addressed her comments about going solo and Mis-teeq having no new plans in the pipeline.

“I now understand that my plans may not have been fully communicated to Alesha and Su-Elise before the announcement.

“Looking back, I could have shared more detail with management and spoken to the girls directly beforehand, and for that I am sorry.”

Sabrina added: “I have never closed the door on Mis-Teeq. I said on GMB, and I want to say again: I would never say no to another Mis-Teeq show.

“If the right opportunity came along and the three of us all wanted to do it, I would absolutely be open to that.”

Fans were quick to brand her “courageous” and “brave” for speaking out, though some were annoyed as they had already booked tickets to her now-axed solo tour.

The Sun exclusively revealed last week that the Scandalous hitmakers would be going their separate ways following their recent sold-out reunion gig.

Sabrina, Alesha Dixon, 47, and Su-Elise Nash, 45, brought the house down as they took to the stage to mark 25 years since their debut album Lickin’ on Both Sides.

But soon after the performance, Sabrina revealed she planned to go solo.

Speaking exclusively to The Sun last month, she said: “We have had such a massive year together and I’m really proud of what we achieved. 

“We got to come back 25 years later, perform together again and finish with a sold-out Wembley show.

“It was a really special way to celebrate everything the three of us created together.

“But there aren’t any further Mis-Teeq dates or new music planned and we’ve all gone back to doing our own things now.

“For me, though, I wasn’t ready for the celebration to end there.”

AN X Factor-winning group have revealed their next gig could be their last ever, after taking a huge gamble. 

Rak-Su star Myles Stephenson took to TikTok to reveal that they had “the biggest show of their lives” coming up. 

Speaking to the camera, Myles explained: “In less than three weeks we will be doing a show on October 18th at Watford Palace Theatre and I’m a little bit nervous.” 

Myles revealed the reason behind his nerves is that they’ll be doing the show “fully independent,” with no label or management, as well as funding the entire show themselves. 

He continued: “We have put a lot of money into this, and we don’t know if it’s going to pay off, but it’s not about the money. 

“It’s about the fact that potentially this might be our last show so whatever it costs to put on the best show ever, we’re going to do that. 

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“I’m nervous because I don’t want it to be our last show, I want it to continue forever.” 

Myles went on: “We’ve been full time musicians for nine years and that’s a very, very long time and that’s a very long time for musicians in today’s age.” 

The singing star finished by saying: “If we sell out this show on October 18th, we will tour next year so don’t let this be the last time that Rak-Su ever performs, ever again.” 

Fans flooded the comments section tagging pals and saying they were excited to watch the show. 

Myles is one member of the R’n’B group Rak-Su who won the The X Factor in 2017.

Mentored by Simon Cowell, the group comprised of Myles, Rak-Su J, Ashley Rak-Su and Pharoahcious.

And Simon was not the only judge impressed, with fellow judge Nicole Scherzinger also giving the group the seal of approval.

In 2019 it was reported that the vocal group have been dropped by record label RCA less than two years after being crowned champs.

Myles, Ashley Fongho, Jamaal Shurland and Mustafa Rahimtulla went to No2 with Dimelo, featuring Wyclef Jean and Naughty Boy, when they came off the 2017 show.

But their next four singles were poorly received and they struggled to shift copies of two EPs.

A music insider said at the time: “It’s a tough time to be in pop and the buzz for Rak-Su fizzled out fast. They haven’t delivered the huge chart singles which bosses were convinced they would, despite being so popular on the show. The feeling is that their moment has passed and it’s going to be tough to revive it.”

But Rak-Su have rebuilt momentum, with a huge following on social media and now a gig to look forward to ahead of, if ticket sales go well for October, their teased tour next year. 

EUROPE is home to a theme park you might not have heard of, but was named one of the best in the world – and it’s about to get some huge upgrades.

Futuroscope in France is often overlooked by its busier neighbour Disneyland Paris.

Yet earlier this year, it was named one of Europe’s best theme parks by Blooloop and was even dubbed the equivalent to Universal Studios in Europe”.

Celebrating its 40th birthday next year – it opened in 1987 – it has since announced huge new multi-million plans.

Called Vision 2025, the €304million (£260million) masterplan has already included the Aquascope waterpark, three rides and and two themed hotels.

One of the biggest upcoming investments will be a fourth hotel at the park, with a science fiction theme throughout.

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The four-star hotel is currently under construction, with 240 rooms randing from premium to suites.

A 400-seat restaurant, an 120-seat bar and a huge spa area are all part of the plans too.

Guests will be able to access the park directly via a pedestrian bridge when it opens.

An official opening date and prices are yet to be confirmed.

Olivier Héral, Creative Director, said it will be a “spectacular and immersive hotel, designed as a world unto itself, where architecture, scenography and services tell a true story”.

Also new next year will be ATHOS, a new IMAX film at the park’s Kinemax.

The new Dance with the Robots attraction will see 10 robots dancing to music, while others include the illusion show Imagine, Live Show.

But there are also some exciting new additions to the park this year too.

From December 5, the new Magical Nights parade will launch with five floats and 23 artists.

In the mean time, there is still loads of things to do with 40 rides and attractions.

This includes the Aquascope indoor waterpark, which have eight slides and a lazy river with four themed universes – and even an “aquatic cinema”.

One visitor previously said:  “Aquascope is a kind of aquatic nightclub crossed with a James Cameron film.“

A CLOSED Wetherspoons once labelled as the most beautiful in the UK is set to be turned into a huge indoor soft play attraction.

The pub closed down back in 2023 after more than two decades in business.

The Capitol Pub on London Road in Forest Hill was often regarded as the grandest or most beautiful in the range of budget pubs.

It was housed in a former 1920’s Art Deco building that used to serve as a cinema.

The picture house showed its last film in 1978 then opened as a bingo hall before JD Wetherspoons snapped it up in 1996.

But, new life is set to be breathed into the Grade II listed building as developers have revealed plans to transform it into a soft play, according to News Shopper.

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Planning permission was approved back in January, with developers now working through a series of conditions to ensure the original features in the building are protected.

A multi-level play structure, party rooms, café facilities and an on-site manager’s flat is set to feature in the building.

Meanwhile, accessible toilets, buggy parking and areas for staff are also set to be built.

However, fans of the building need not worry as its original cinema entrance and distinct features will be protected.

No opening date has been confirmed for the soft play area, but works continue to be underway.

BRITS are being warned to check a vital travel document as it might soon be expiring and could cost you thousands if you don’t renew it.

Up to 1.3million Brits could be caught out when travelling abroad this year due to out-of-date travel documents.

A Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is a free card that gives UK travellers access to state healthcare when on holiday.

New data collected by Compare the Market for the NHS has revealed that 1,299,484 UK GHIC cards are due to expire this year.

This means that if you needed emergency healthcare when on holiday, you could be faced with a nasty bill if your GHIC card is out of date.

Currently there are around 23.3 million GHIC cards in circulation in the UK but the cards only last five years.

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If your GHIC is due to expire soon and you are also due to travel soon, then apply for a new card for free via official NHS BSA Healthcare Cover Application, as soon as possible.

It usually takes around 15 working days for the card to arrive once your application is approved.

If you travel before your card arrives, then don’t worry – if you need medical treatment when abroad, then you or someone on your behalf can request a Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC) online or by phone.

All you need to provide is your name, address, date of birth and your National Insurance Number.

The certificate can then be emailed directly to the hospital or medical centre you are seeking treatment at and gives you the exact same healthcare cover as a physical card.

It is worth remembering though that GHIC cards are not a substitute for travel insurance.

GHICs do not cover private medical care, mountain rescue, flight cancellations or being flown back to the UK – all things that you will need travel insurance for.

Tim Knighton, travel insurance expert at Compare the Market, said: “With nearly 1.3 million GHICs due to expire this year, anyone travelling to Europe should check their card well before they set off.

“It’s an easy thing to overlook, particularly if you haven’t needed to use your GHIC on previous trips.

“The rise in applications for PRCs also highlights that people could find themselves needing access to healthcare unexpectedly while abroad, so checking you have a valid GHIC before travelling is an important part of preparing for your trip.

“A GHIC can be very useful if you need medically necessary state healthcare while abroad, but it’s important to remember that it isn’t a substitute for travel insurance.

“There are costs and circumstances that a GHIC may not cover, so having appropriate travel insurance can provide additional protection if something goes wrong.

“Before travelling, check the expiry date on your GHIC and make sure you understand what healthcare you can access at your destination.

“It’s also worth arranging travel insurance as soon as you book your trip and comparing policies carefully to make sure the level of medical and other cover suits your needs.”

WITH ancient ruins like the Acropolis and the Temple of Zeus, Athens has long been considered one of the oldest cities in the world – but it’s about to get much more modern.

A new billion-pound seafront regeneration project with a towering skyscraper and luxury shopping has resulted in the city being dubbed the ‘new Dubai‘.

Major changes are happening in Athens especially on the riviera where an enormous development is underway.

A regeneration project called The Ellinikon an estimated €8billion (£6billion) is set to completely transform the area to become its first ‘smart city’.

At its core is an enormous skyscraper called Riviera Tower – once transformed it will be the tallest building in Greece at over 650 feet high.

Inside will be around 170 luxury apartments including penthouses and each one will have panoramic views over the coastline.

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It will also have private infinity pools, spa and gym as well as shared wellness spaces and greenery and plant filled terraces around the building.

The skyscraper was formerly part of Ellinikon International Airport which served the city until 2001.

The Ellinikon will also have new additions including ‘Little Athens’, a new neighbourhood right next to the beach with apartments as well as small shops and cafés.

The Riviera Galleria will be a new complex for luxury shopping with 80 new shops covering 10,000 square metres.

At the galleria will also be upscale restaurants, artisan ice-cream parlours, beauty salons and organic markets.

The upscale and luxury aspect mirrors what visitors expect when heading to the seafront neighbourhoods of Dubai.

In order to entice expats into Greece, the country is also offering tax breaks – much like Dubai which is a playground for the wealthy.

Since its debt crisis in around 2009, Greece has made a ‘remarkable economic recovery’, according to the IMF.

Part of this is thanks to tax breaks aimed at families, young workers and expats.

Under new rules this year, investment professionals who relocate to Greece can pay five per cent on “carried interest” – this is a fraction of the rate in the UK. 

Talking to The Times, Henley & Partners, which organises residence and citizenship planning for the rich says interest in moving to Greece has surged.

It’s now the second-most popular destination after St Kitts & Nevis for relocation.

Mario Rafael, a managing director at the firm. said: “Greece is increasingly competing for the attention of the same internationally mobile families considering places such as Milan and Dubai.” 

If it does turn into a Dubai-alternative, for Brits it’ll be much easier to get to as the flight is around four hours less.

While it might not be the winter hotspot like the city in the UAE, Athens still has scorching summers too.

There were rows aplenty on ABC sitcom Modern Family, but there was an even bigger one behind the scenes and Jesse Tyler Ferguson says the rest of the cast just got used to it

Jesse Tyler Ferguson says the Modern Family set could be an awkward place after admitting a show feud made things difficult.

The long-running hit show starred the likes of Ed O’Neil, Sofia Vergara, Eric Stonestreet, Ariel Winter and Nolan Gould, before ending in 2020 after 11 years. The much-loved programme featured three different but interconnected branches of the same large family living in suburban Los Angeles.

But it seems the feel-good ABC sitcom was hiding a secret – its two creators Christopher Lloyd and Steven Levitan didn’t get on at all following a huge fall-out, and it caused uncomfortableness behind the scenes.

Things became so strained that the writers’ room was divided in two, with duties alternating on an episode-by-episode basis between the two brains behind the comedy. Jesse, who played Mitchell Pritchett for more than a decade, says the stars learned to deal with the new direction.

“Basically, we had divorced parents leading the show,” the actor said in an interview with the Independent. “Our creators just decided to go separate ways. I thought it was a big secret that no one really knew about.

“It was like we had a week with this parent, and then a week with that parent. And we all just learnt that that’s how it works.

“It gave the show a really interesting balance that I think a lot of people didn’t even notice was happening – I still can’t believe after 11 seasons that the show was as successful as it was, with that sort of division of power, really.”

The comedy ran for an impressive 250 episodes, and many of its actors have gone on to enjoy a lot of success.

Jesse enjoyed a successful theatre career before joining the cast of Modern Family, where he earned several Emmy nominations alongside his on-screen husband Cameron Tucker.

Aside from the ABC show, he has appeared as a guest judge on So You Think You Can Dance from 2011 to 2013 and hosted Extreme Makeover: Home Edition in 2020. He has also landed roles in High School Musical: The Musical: The Series and 2023 disaster film Cocaine Bear.

The star also won his first Tony for his performance in the Broadway revival of Take Me Out in 2022.

His on-screen love Cameron Tucker , played by Eric Stonestreet, tied the knot with fiancée Lindsay Schweitzer on his birthday last year.

The longtime couple announced the incredible news in a series of photos shared on Instagram.

Before the shoe Eric was known for his role as Ronnie Litre on CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. He has also appeared in films like 2011’s Bad Teacher and 2013’s Identity Thief.

Since the show, Stonestreet has portrayed Magnus Antas on Disney+’s The Santa Clauses and also took up a hosting role on the Fox competition series Domino Masters.

Like this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok, Snapchat, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and Threads.

HALLOWEEN is just around the corner, and Butlin’s has announced some very exciting things coming to the park this autumn.

All three resorts –  Bognor Regis, Minehead and Skegness – will be transformed in time for the spooky season.

Returning this year are the Spooktober breaks, which will turn the fairgrounds into ‘Scaregrounds’.

New this year is Skyline Gang Monster Mash Up, a Halloween-themed show where guests in the audience will vote for which member is scariest.

There will also be the Eerily Silent Disco and pumpkin carving as well.

Spooktober four-night breaks start from just £39 when staying on October 5 at Skegness.

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Based on four people sharing a two-bedroom Comfort Room, this works out to £10pp, or just £2.50 each, per night.

All breaks come with access to the Splash Waterworld waterpark, as well as Skypark playgrounds and all live entertainment.

The holiday resort has also revealed what to expect from their October half term breaks too.

It will be the last time to see The Masked Singer Live, which ends later this year.

And they will also include firework displays as well.

October half term breaks start from £49 based on four people, or from £13pp.

Mike Godolphin, Entertainment Director at Butlin’s said: “With autumn well and truly upon us, our teams are busy transforming all three resorts for Spooktober.

“As the Home of Entertainment, next month is one of our favourite moments in the Butlin’s calendar, and we want families to feel the Halloween atmosphere from the moment they arrive on their holiday. 

“There’s a brilliant energy across the resorts during this time of the year and we can’t wait to welcome the tens of thousands of guests visiting us this October.” 

Earlier this month, Butlin’s announced eight new shows launching at the parks next year as well.

This includes Britain’s Got Talent and DreamWorks’ Madagascar musical.

Also new this year at self-serve bars across the parks, which are the first of their kind in Europe.

BACKSTREET BOYS are ­returning to the UK next year for a string of huge shows, including a concert at London’s O2 Arena.

Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, AJ McLean, Brian Littrell and Kevin Richardson had been locked in rehearsals at a facility in Bedfordshire for the launch of their concert residency in Dusseldorf, which kicked off on Friday.

But I can reveal the band are in advanced talks to perform their first shows in Blighty since the 2022 DNA World Tour.

A source said: “Backstreet’s back — and they’re coming to London.

“All the details are under lock and key but the residency means the guys are on top form and are ready to head out on tour.

“The concerts will take place next year, with one at London’s O2 Arena which will make up part of the venue’s 20th anniversary celebrations.

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“The lads are beyond excited about this and have been working so hard.”

Earlier this year, Backstreet Boys kicked off their Into The Millennium residency at The Sphere in Las Vegas.

The show is now in ­Germany before more dates in Sin City in December and ­January.

The lads have sold more than 450,000 tickets for the ­residency in Dusseldorf, with fans being treated to a 26-song set list.

As a group, Backstreet Boys dominated Germany in the early days of the band, with fans there catching on early as to what huge stars they would become.

After the residency began, Brian said: “When we talk about this being a homecoming, it’s because Germany is where everything clicked for us.

“It’s where our dream stopped being hypothetical and became something real.

“Coming back for these shows feels full circle.”

After they struck gold, the band went on to become one of the biggest groups in the world, ­selling more than 150million records worldwide and achieving 16 UK Top Ten singles, including No1 hit I Want It That Way in 1999.

As a huge fan, I shall be jumping in the queue for tickets once the show is announced.

Rita can go Anywhere

LIKE me, Rita Ora was a late starter when it came to passing her driving test.

But, aged 35, she’s now finally got her licence and posed proudly with her certificate in front of her Dollar Driving School car in Los Angeles.

The company previously taught stars including model Winnie Harlow how to drive.

See you on the M1, Rita – and feel free to bring your cute four-legged friend along too.

MARIAH HERE TO BRING MORE FESTIVE CHEER

IF you missed out on tickets for Mariah Carey’s upcoming UK Christmas tour dates, I have good news.

I’m told the star is in advanced talks to perform at this year’s Capital Jingle Bell Ball.

My moles tell me the annual event will take place on December 5 and 6 at London’s O2 Arena, with bosses ­working around the clock to secure the US chart queen as a performer.

A source said: “Bosses are still locking in the exact line-up but it’s looking likely Mariah will be a special guest at one of the dates.

“They think she would be an amazing ­addition to the line-up.”

We revealed in July how Mariah was set to return to our shores to play her first run of winter shows here in eight years.

She will begin the gigs on November 27 in Birmingham before concerts in London and Manchester.

Welcome back, Mimi.

We’ve missed you.

It’s heavy petal for Olivia

OLIVIA RODRIGO could be lining up a partnership with Interflora, if the opening night of her Unraveled Tour was anything to go by.

The Drop Dead singer performed in a sea of giant flowers – with 16 gardeners on hand to rearrange the blooms as her US show in Connecticut went on.

As well as singing tracks from her previous two records, Olivia performed nearly every song from No1 album You Seem Pretty Sad For A Girl So In Love.

She repeatedly changed dresses during the 23-song set – and wowed fans when a white frock she was wearing dissolved as “rain” fell on stage, to reveal a bright-red corseted number underneath.

She will bring the show to the UK for a nine-night run at London’s O2 Arena next April.

CELINE’S DOLLED UP FOR XMAS

CELINE DION is being immortalised as a Barbie doll to celebrate her incredible live music comeback.

I can reveal the My Heart Will Go On singer, who is playing a residency in Paris, will have her own limited edition doll released just in time for Christmas.

A source said: “Celine was contacted by Mattel last year and was told bosses were keen to turn her into a collectable Barbie.

“Naturally, she was honoured, and agreed to the partnership straight away.

“The doll will be based on one of her most iconic looks.”

Celine is not the first star to be turned into the famous toy.

In February, Kylie Minogue had a plastic-fantastic makeover, while Marilyn Monroe got her own doll to celebrate what would have been her 100th birthday in August.

POP star Mabel has given birth to her first child, a year on from her wedding to record label executive Preye Crooks.

The singer, who hadn’t revealed she was pregnant, shared a home video on Instagram yesterday of their newborn and was congratulated by fellow artists including Craig David, Fleur East, Tinie Tempah and Ella Eyre.

POP IDOL WILL GOES LIVE AT 25

WILL YOUNG is heading out on tour next year to mark 25 years since he won Pop Idol.

The Evergreen 25th ­Anniversary gigs will see Will, inset, perform with his band.

The shows kick off at ­Manchester’s O2 Apollo on February 20 before other stop-offs include Glasgow, Sheffield, Nottingham, Birmingham, Southend, London and Cardiff.

Will said: “I can’t wait to celebrate with the full band and play Evergreen, as well as all the songs that have come since, from Light My Fire to Leave Right Now.”

X Factor star Olly Murs has also confirmed a string of summer shows for 2027.

His eight-date run will start at Bristol’s Good Times Festival on May 30.

Tickets for Will’s and Olly’s shows go on sale at 10am this Friday.

A NEW Minecraft rollercoaster and hotel is coming to the UK next year as part of a huge new theme park expansion.

Chessington World of Adventures announced the new £50million Minecraft World earlier this year, which will be the first of its kind.

And new details about what will be in the land have been revealed.

The main ride will be Escape the Nether, the first Minecraft rollercoaster in the world.

Passengers will be taken through ‘dark mines’ on the indoor ride, before travelling through a Nether Portal to an Overworld themed area.

Little else is known about it, although it says it will be a ‘high-speed indoor adventure’.

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The park has also revealed what to expect from the new Minecraft World Hotel.

Inside will be 69 rooms spread across four floors, ranging from standard to premium.

Guests can expect the famous Minecraft blocks and items within the rooms, while the ‘Nether Portal’ themed lifts and mine tunnel corridors will add more to the immersive experience.

Also inside will be a Woodland Mansion themed ‘potion’ bar as well as an underwater-themed restaurant.

This is alongside other retail and dining attractions in the land as well.

An official opening date for the new land is yet to be confirmed with it being sometime in 2027.

Daisy Mercedes, Creative Producer at Merlin Entertainments, said: “We promised something truly special when we announced Minecraft World earlier this year, and with Minecraft World Hotel we are offering even more.

“Not only will fans be able to experience the game imagined for real life, but they’ll be also able to sleep inside it, ensuring fans respawn exactly where they want to be.

“Seeing the Minecraft World Hotel take shape alongside the attractions we are building at Chessington World of Adventures theme park is a Minecraft fans biggest dream.

“Every room, corridor and detail has been crafted with immense love for this game, the stories made within it and its community.

Trains from London to Chessington take around 35 minutes. Tickets start from £34 each.

In the mean time, you can visit the UK’s first dedicated Paw Patrol-themed land, which opened at Chessington earlier this year.

A MAJOR pop star was spotted singing one of her hit tracks in a quiet driveway.

The singer was dressed casually and having a great time performing to the small, happy crowd – but would you have recognised it was her?

Anne-Marie strutted around the car park with a mic in hand, singing Rockabye .

A little blue stand stood behind her for the event, which a reposter on TikTok said was part of a street party.

Anne-Marie sported pink hair, pink and blue ombre shoes and a comfortable pair of black tracksuit trousers for the day.

She finished the look off with a simple necklace and a black graphic tee.

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People waved their arms along to the music while children joyfully blew bubbles.

Fans adored seeing the interaction, and flooded the comments section of the clip with praise for Anne-Marie.

One user said: “She’s just so down to earth, and she’s got the best voice.”

A second shared: “I love her she’s beautiful, natural and a people person. Plus her voice is perfection.”

A third added: “Local girl done good. Love this!”

Rockabye was released by Clean Bandit in 2016, but Anne-Marie and Sean Paul featured on the record.

It became hugely popular, to date having over 3 billion views on YouTube alone.

HAVEN has just bought its 40th holiday park – and it’s already one of the most popular in the country.

The park found in West Sussex has 2,500 pitches, is right next to its own private beach and you can book a stay from less than £10per night.

The holiday park in question is Seal Bay in West Sussex – it’s award-winning and was recently crowned UK’s most popular £9.50 holiday park.

It has thousands of pitches, there’s plenty of entertainment for the whole family and it’s minutes away from the beach, what’s not to love?

Seal Bay sits on the coast in Selsey and when it comes to picking a place to stay, visitors can choose from seaside caravans to beachfront pods or glamping options.

All stays come with kitted-out kitchens, bed linen, as well as access to the swimming pools and entertainment.

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The simplest option is camping, with a choice of grass, electric or serviced pitches – each has a parking space and access to hot shower facilities.

Caravans range from comfy Bronze bases which sleeps up to eight guests, all the way to Platinum caravans that feel more like a homely cottage.

Lodges are larger with their own decks – and some luxury ones even come with a private hot tub.

Beachfront pods are a great choice for those wanting a cosy hideaway facing the sea – they have mezzanines and fold-out double beds, as well as private decking to enjoy that sea breeze.

For those visiting as a large group, you can even book an entire self-catering house.

As for entertainment and play there’s plenty for all ages – some of the highlights are its arcades, bowling, and soft play zones.

There’s also a swimming pool with a splash zone for toddlers, wave simulator, inflatable obstacle course, lazy river and waterslides.

Families with young children can get crafting at the create-your-own teddy bear factory, sand art sessions and try out mini archery which is for those between two and five-years-old.

Older kids should head to the Dockyard which has a large climbing wall and adventure golf.

There’s plenty for adults and couples too, like live music, comedy nights, and Big Red Button Bingo.

When it comes to eating, there’s the Above the Bay Bar & Kitchen which opened earlier this year, along with Smokey’s BBQ Kitchen and the Cafe Lido.

From the park, holidaymakers have direct access down to Seal Bay Beach – and almost one mile of it is reserved for guests only.

Mid-week breaks can be booked for under £250.

A family of up to six can book a four-night stay in May 2027 from £244 in a Classic 2 Bed Holiday Caravan – or £10.16pppn.

If you fancy a break in the next few weeks, a four-night stay in a Classic Caravan from 12-16 October can be booked out from £196 – or £8.16pppn.

Seal Bay will continue to trade under its current name for the remainder of 2026, before changings its name to the Haven brand for 2027. 

It’s not the first holiday park that has been taken on by Haven in the last few years – it previously acquired the Richmond Holiday Centre which has now been named Haven Skegness Holiday Park.

Simon Palethorpe, CEO, Haven said: “I’m delighted that we are welcoming Seal Bay to the Haven family. It’s a fantastic park in the most stunning location and will sit brilliantly alongside our 39 other parks.

“Haven’s mission is all about making memories that last a lifetime and we can’t wait to start working with the Seal Bay team to deliver this for thousands of holiday makers and owners in the years to come.”

Holidaymakers can still book holidays on the current Seal Bay resort website – including for breaks in 2027.

MADONNA is an expensive Material Girl – flogging a square of pink fabric for £40. 

The Queen of Pop, 68, posed in a pink veil on the cover of her No1 album Confessions II and is now selling replica versions on her online store. 

The item is described as a 58-inch sheer pink veil, with a “custom Madonna graphic tag” in the corner. 

However, fans are also being charged £5.54 in shipping fees on top of the £40 cost. 

One fan joked: “Madonna really said, ‘Why buy sheer pink voile for $3.99 a yard when you can buy it from me for $45 with a tiny tag sewn on it?’” 

Another fan account for the star wrote: “That’s a lot for a piece of fabric #Madonna.” 

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The item is among a raft of new merchandise, including a £40 rhinestone drinks tumbler, £40 tote bag, £35 water bottle and £7 pencil set. 

Madonna will tomorrow release a remix of her track Danceteria featuring Charli xcx, 34, months after an online spat. 

They fell out in April when Charli gave an interview to Vogue and quoted a line from her track Rock Music, in which she sings: “The dance floor is dead, so now we’re making rock music”. 

But Madonna, who had just launched the campaign for her dance-inspired album Confessions II, clapped back in an Instagram post in which she wrote: “If your dance floor feels dead, maybe you’re playing the wrong music.” 

They made amends when they were photographed at Paris Fashion Week in June and then hosted a club night together. 

It is now hoped they will perform their track together for the first time at the MTV Video Music Awards in Los Angeles on Sunday night. 

With 11 nominations, Madonna is the frontrunner to win big at the event  

She will open the show – her first performance at the ceremony since 2003 when she famously kissed Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera on stage during a mash-up of her songs Like A Virgin and Hollywood. 

Sources in the US said she is likely to be joined by multiple guests although exact details of her set are being kept under wraps. 

Charli, who is nominated for four awards including Best Pop and Best Long Form Video, will be in the US at the same time as she is currently on a tour across North America. 

However, she played in Boston on the east coast last night (THURS) and is due to perform in Washington on Monday. 

Snoop Dogg, 54, will host the ceremony, which will be available to watch on streaming service Paramount+ and from 9pm on MTV on Monday. 

THE enormous new Eden Project being built in the seaside town of Morecambe is officially underway.

Work started last month on the £100million project and the public will be able to visit part of it as soon as next year with a full opening expected in 2028.

The first part to open will be the Bring Me Sunshine Garden, it will have tall Austrian pine trees, a natural flower meadow and a solar-powered, shell-shaped outdoor pavilion and classroom that harvests rainwater.

The garden was shown off at the 2026 RHS Chelsea Flower Show and will open as a permanent part of the Eden Project in Morecambe in spring 2027 – it will be completely free to visit.

The rest of the Eden Project Morecambe is scheduled to fully open in winter 2028.

The biggest part that has been unveiled so far is called ‘The Elder Tree‘ – it will be 65 feet tall and will guide visitors on a journey from its roots to the trunk hollows.

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It is set to show people how to “reconnect” with and “restore nature”.

There will be two very different experiences called The Realm of the Sun and The Realm of the Moon.

The Realm of the Sun has been described as “a bright, lush landscape of the near future — a place where humanity has rediscovered how to repair and re-engage with the broken rhythms of the natural world”.

The Realm of the Moon is as an immersive but “darker” space with a hyper-real rockpool which will have sped-up cycles of tides.

The two realms, will be linked by an area called Metronome, where visitors will buy their entry tickets.

It was revealed today that the Pears Foundation has gifted the attraction £2.5million towards the Eden Project’s habitations zone.

This area of the attraction has been described as Eden Project Morecambe’s “signature experience”.

Inside will be four theatrical spaces, named High Street, Market, Farm and Town Square with immersive activities in each.

Eden Project Morecambe said the activities will “reflect people’s daily lives, sharing how local place-based adaptation and world-wide innovation can collide to help us adopt approaches that can positively impact our planet”.

There will be a 750-capacity Tidal Theatre, a 300-capacity restaurant and a shop at the attraction as well.

Other details that have been previously mentioned include hanging plants, mini gardens, a multi-sensory area, and a waterfall.

There’s plenty to around Morecambe too like the Happy Mount Park, the Eric Morecambe Statue and The Smugglers Den pub all rated highly on TripAdvisor.

Morecambe has a pretty five-mile English beach too which in 2024 was named one of UK’s most beautiful in a list of 37 by Time Out.

For any TV fans, you might recognise Morecambe as the backdrop of ITV drama, The Bay.

Filming locations include Sunderland Point, a village of 30 houses at the end of a tidal causeway and the Stone Jetty which is all that remains of the original Victorian harbour.

A HUGE new land is opening at a European theme park you may have never heard of.

Efteling in the Netherlands is one of the oldest theme parks in the world, and often compared to Disneyland for its fairytale themes.

And now has revealed that it will reopen its Raveleijn land on December 1 after a €20million (£17.2million) upgrade.

The star of the show will be the new €5million (£4.3million) Ravenring attraction.

The new ride features 18 winged vehicles seating up to 36 people, inspired by the Raveleijn ravens and takes them on a flight-like ride.

The new city at the park will also have a new show launching at the same time called Battle for the City.

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The €10million (£8.6million) show will be packed with stunts and follows a dark force awakening on two characters’ wedding day where a battle then breaks out.

A total of €5million (£4.3million) has also been spent on upgrading the surrounding area including the De Verslaeghen Draek Inn which has a menu inspired by recipes travellers have collected from around the world.

There’s a new souvenir shop too – In den Ravenkorf – where visitors can pick up costumes, toys and other Raveleijn products.

Raveleijn originally opened back in 2011 and has been closed for nearly a year for upgrades to take place.

The area is themed around the story of five children who pass through a secret gate and transform into “brave riders”, according to the park.

They must then defend the city against evil.

Director of Product, Marketing & Image Koen Sanders: “The sets have been extensively revamped and Raveleijn is getting a brand-new show packed with spectacular stunts, created in collaboration with the French theme park Puy du Fou.

“At the heart of the story: when evil arises, the heroes of Raveleijn join forces.”