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EastEnders fans rejoice as Witches of Walford reunite on Christmas Day in ‘huge showdown’

EastEnders fans rejoiced as the Witches of Walford reunited in explosive scenes that played out in the BBC soap’s famous pub on Christmas Day as various truths were outed

EastEnders fans rejoiced as the Witches of Walford reunited in explosive scenes that aired on Christmas Day. The BBC soap aired its festive special on Thursday evening, and it was revealed exactly who had been tormenting Zoe Slater with threatening letters over the past few months.

Zoe made a much-anticipated comeback to the serial earlier this year, and it emerged later that she had twins almost 20 years ago. At the time, it was believed that the little girl had died and she had given her son away for adoption. Having been searching for her son for months, Zoe finally believed her son was about to turn up on Christmas Day, but it was all a wicked plot set up by a mysterious figure.

Earlier in the day, Zoe got into an altercation with Antony Trueman, the biological father of her children, at the top of the stairs in the Queen Vic which ended with her knocked out cold. In a surprise twist though, it was revealed that Zoe had woken up relatively unharmed and Anthony was dead.

READ MORE: EastEnders’ Jasmine’s link to Cindy ‘explained’ as Chrissie’s secret family ‘revealed’READ MORE: EastEnders’ Tracy-Ann Oberman breaks silence on ‘obsession’ amid Zoe stalker hell

After Kat discovered them, she cleared out the pub and they were greeted by Chrissie Watts, who was last seen in 2024 driving away from the square following a long spell in prison for the murder of her husband Den. Chrissie, who had broken into the pub and fired up a karaoke microphone, said: “Ladies. Both of you. What a treat! Zoe pleaded: “Where’s my son?” as Chrissie confirmed: “He’s not coming I’m afraid…”

She added: “Torturing? With a few harmless games? I thought it was time we’d have a little reunion. It’s been so long. You’re not a drippy little girl anymore. Life has really toughened you up.” Zoe demanded to know why Chrissie was back on the scene, but she wouldn’t say anything without having a drink first.

It was then that Jasmine Fisher stepped into the pub and Chrissie confirmed that they knew each other. Zoe worked out that Jasmine was her daughter, even though she thought she had died several years ago. Jasmine said: “Only because you couldn’t be bothered to stick around the hospital long enough to hear me cry.” Through tears, Zoe pleased: “They took you away! You weren’t breathing,” but Jasmin continued: “Maybe I should be flattered because at least you didn’t just abandon me like you did my brother.”

“We’ve known each other a while, haven’t we, Jas? I was back in London seeing my parole officers. They can’t get enough of me, I’m a popular girl. Anyway, I bring up my phone, and there’s a picture of my old pal Zoe. You’d been through the wars. I thought it was a sign and decided to bring flowers. But when I got there, they wouldn’t let anyone near you and that’s when I bumped into this lovely one.”

“We both hate you. We wanted to teach you a lesson.” Jasmine raged that Zoe had never tried to find her once she knew she was alive but Kat reasoned: “We only found out today!” Chrissie twisted the knife further and brought up the fact that Zoe had slept with her husband Den several years ago.

Coldly, she added: “I pay for my crimes. And now you’re gonna pay for yours. But your punishment is gonna be in here. You’ve got a lovely little girl and you’re never gonna get to know her.”

Kat told Jasmine: “Look at her, she has really suffered, she has spent her whole life regretting this and yes, she makes bad decisions but she’s not a bad person. This here, Chrissie, she’s the evil one.” There was then another twist for fans as Sam Mitchell made her grand return to the soap by stepping out from behind the bar.

She said: “It’s not often that I side with Kat Slater. But she’s right. Chrissie Watts is evil.” Fans of the long-running BBC soap, which celebrated its 40th anniversary earlier this year, will know that Chrissie, Sam and Zoe formed the trio known as The Witches of Walford during their 2000s heyday.

At the time, an iconic storyline saw Chrissie instigating a revenge plot against her husband Den, and persuading Sam and Zoe to go along with her before she tried to frame them for Den’s murder.

Chrissie said: “The three of us. Back again. Who’s gonna turn up next? The ghost of Den?” Sam then asked Chrissie if she was related to Jasmine, and even though Zoe protested that she was the mother, Chrissie cut in to say: “She could’ve been mine! She’s the same age as the baby I lost in prison.”

Kat then demanded the three of them leave but Zoe, now in tears, tried to make her long-lost daughter see that Chrissie had simply goaded her into another revenge plot. Sam then brought up Chrissie’s manipulative ways to try to make Jasmin see sense.

Outside, Jasmine tried to get rid of Chrissie and insisted that she would be “better off” alone. Chrissie then warned Jasmine against mentioning her name to any law authorities, and walked back out of Albert Square. Jasmin and Zoe had a heart-to-heart, and when the police did arrive, Zoe stopped Kat from trying to cover for her and handed herself in as her mother wept.

Fans were quick to react to the reunion, with one fan writing on X: “Hahaha chrissie appearing like that in the Vic,” and a second added: “Kat, meet one of your first grandchildren!”

Another said: “This is vintage” and a fourth added: “Sam, Zoe and Chrissie in the same room in 20 years [crying emoji],” whilst another dramatically exclaimed: “THIS IS A HUGE SHOWDOWN!”

EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. * Follow Mirror Celebs and TV on TikTok , Snapchat Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads .



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The huge waterfalls, natural lidos and mystical castles that holidaymakers love about Cornwall

WITH its staggeringly beautiful beaches, scenic woodlands and hidden waterfalls, Cornwall has natural attractions galore.

There’s also fascinating history to discover, from legendary King Arthur’s roots, the tin mining heyday and the infamous pirates that terrorised the coastline for hundreds of years.

The beautiful St Nectan’s Glen, on Cornwall’s north coastCredit: Getty

We’ve spoken to Sun readers who have visited Cornwall on £9.50 Holidays to get their recommendations of the best local natural and historic attractions to visit.

We’ve also asked local experts and holiday park staff for their top tips, with options that are all within easy reach of your £9.50 Holiday. Here’s what they said… 

Waterfall magic 

Dani Fillery, Owner and Guest Experience Manager at White Acres Holiday Park, near Newquay, recommends the beautiful St Nectan’s Glen, on Cornwall’s north coast.

A scenic woodland walk leads you to a spectacular 60ft waterfall with a cafe at the top (tip: wear decent footwear as it can be wet and uneven underfoot).

Kids will be amazed by the sight and sound of the waterfall.

Admission costs £9 per adult and £5 per child (free for under fives), but you can see some of the smaller rapids for free, which are also lovely. Don’t forget to take £3 cash for the car park.

Castle legends 

You could pair St Nectan’s Glen with a trip to Tintagel Castle, just a couple of miles away.

Said to be the birthplace of King Arthur, it has medieval ruins to explore, accessed by a jaw-dropping footbridge.

At low tide, don’t miss Merlin’s Cave – located below the castle, which is believed to be where Merlin lived.

If you’re staying further south, Pendennis Castle offers a glimpse into Tudor Cornwall.

One of Henry VIII’s finest seaside fortresses, it’s ideal for a family day out, with kid-friendly tours, an events programme and even a soft play for little ones. 

Said to be the birthplace of King Arthur, Tintagel Castle has medieval ruins to explore, accessed by a jaw-dropping footbridge.Credit: Getty

Tin mining legacy

For Sun reader Anne Walton, 71, from Newport in Wales, there are lots of historic attractions in Cornwall worth visiting.

She said: “You’ve got the Poldark area and Jamaica Inn, which they filmed near Holywell Bay. We’ve been down on the beach when they’ve been filming it.”

Another highlight that Anne recommends, and which features in Poldark, are the tin mines.

You can walk right next to well-preserved engine houses on the coastal path near St Agnes Head, one of the filming locations for the BBC drama.

Or, delve deeper into the history of Cornish mining and more at the Royal Cornwall Museum in Truro, which is a wallet-friendly option for families (free for under-18s, £7.50 for adults).

It houses over 300,000 artefacts, with hands-on exhibits to capture kids’ imaginations. 

St Michael’s Mount in Marazion has a French counterpart across the Channel, in NormandyCredit: Getty

Escape to an island fortress

Carol Harris, 72, from Clacton-on-Sea, Essex, stayed at Parkdean Resorts Lizard Point.

She recommends taking the hop on, hop off bus from outside the holiday park to Marazion, to visit St Michael’s Mount, an island fortress that she says is “beautiful”.

And it might look a tad familiar – it has a French counterpart across the Channel, in Normandy.

Located on a tidal island, you need to take a boat to reach the castle and its subtropical gardens at high tide (£2.80 one way for adults, £1.50 for children).

But at low tide, you can get there for free by walking across the granite causeway (it’s open for about four hours each day).

Tip: there is a great cafe on the island, but you can keep costs down by packing a picnic and finding a grassy spot. 

Pendennis Castle offers a glimpse into Tudor CornwallCredit: Getty

Swim in a natural sea pool

Cornwall is blessed with more than 400 beaches – so you’re never short of sea swimming locations.

But for something more sheltered and a little more unique, head to a natural sea pool.

Cornwall expert and Sun travel writer Ellie Ross recommends Trevone Natural Sea Pool, which you can walk to from Trevone Bay car park in under ten minutes.

She says: “You have to time it for low tide, and clamber across some rocks, but it’s well worth it for the experience of swimming in a sea pool – which is completely free.

“There is also a shallow end nearest the path so supervised children can play here, too.”

Other tidal pools include a man-made rock pool, which is relatively unknown, hidden out of sight at Porthtowan Beach.

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Huge Netflix star splits from businessman lover after ‘deciding they want different things’

AS a headstrong leading lady in Bridgerton’s ­second series, Simone Ashley’s character Kate Sharma found her happy ever after.

But it seems that in real-life, the actress is still searching for The One after her brief romance with businessman Tim Sykes ended.

Simone Ashley is still searching for The One after her brief romance with businessman Tim Sykes endedCredit: Getty
The couple had been spotted ­kissing at the US Open tennis tournament in SeptemberCredit: Larry Marano
Simone as Kate Sharma and Jonathan Bailey as Anthony Bridgerton in the Netflix Regency rompCredit: �2023 Netflix, Inc.

The couple had been spotted ­kissing at the US Open tennis tournament in September, and holding hands as they sat courtside during a match at the Arthur Ashe Stadium in New York.

However, Simone has since unfollowed Tim on Instagram.

It’s not quite the fairytale love story her alter ego Kate enjoyed after marrying Anthony Bridgerton in Netflix’s Regency romp.

A source said: “Simone and Tim enjoyed spending time together during the summer.

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“They have since decided that they want different things, so have ended their romance.”

It comes after Simone revealed she had split from her long-term boyfriend Constantin “Tino” Klein in February.

Chatting on BBC’s Woman’s Hour the following month about her new film, Picture This, she said: “It’s kind of ironic I’m promoting a romcom and, as of January this year, I’ve been entering my single era.”

Simone met former lawyer Constantin at the Grand Prix in Monaco in May 2022.

She later told Vogue magazine there was someone special in her life, but didn’t name him, explaining: “I’m very happy. We haven’t gone public yet.”

They went Instagram official soon after, with Simone sharing a snap of Constantin on his birthday in December 2022, captioned: “The best birthday surprise for the best person.”

Let’s hope she will be lucky in love in 2026.

A MERRY LIL’ XMAS

LILY ALLEN gives her best Mrs Claus impression during her Christmas party.

The West End Girl hitmaker posed in white stockings and suspenders with a red fur gown at London gentlemen’s club, Stringfellows, on Friday.

Lily Allen gives her best Mrs Claus impression during her Christmas partyCredit: Dave Benett
Lily with Lola Young and Olivia Rodrigo at the eventCredit: Dave Benett
Lewis Capaldi was also spotted at the famous nightspotCredit: Dave Benett

Lily was joined by model Lottie Moss along with fellow pop stars Olivia Rodrigo, Ella Eyre and Lola Young.

Lewis Capaldi was also spotted at the famous nightspot.

Lily performed Roll The Dice at the party and encouraged a singalong of West End Girl.

LIZZO IN SPIRITED QUEST

POP star Lizzo is swapping showbiz for the drinks biz after necking tequila live on stage.

It comes after the US star appeared at the 2019 Video Music Awards clutching a gem-encrusted bottle of the spirit.

Lizzo is swapping showbiz for the drinks biz after necking tequila live on stageCredit: Getty

Lizzo called the drink “chaquila”– which means a chug plus tequila.

But now her firm, Lizzo LLC, has applied for a global trademark to use the word Chaquila to sell drinks.

Papers filed with the UK Government’s Intellectual Property Office reveal she wants to use the term to market “alcoholic seltzers; alcoholic carbonated beverages, except beer; alcoholic beverages, except beer”.

The legal documents were lodged just days ago and are yet to be rubber-stamped.

Lizzo has even sung about her favourite tipple on the track Love In Real Life.

She sings: “Tequila, do your job, girl, help me change my mind. How many shots this time? (One, two, three, four).

“Tequila, do your job, girl, give me salt and lime. To help me fix my life (one, two, three, four).” Drink it all in, Lizzo.

GORDON AD IS A BIT ‘MEH’

GORDON RAMSAY already has a couple of Super Bowl adverts under his belt.

Now the telly chef has filmed a YouTube campaign for next year’s event alongside magician David Blaine and former NFL ace Jason Kelce.

Gordon Ramsay already has a couple of Super Bowl adverts under his beltCredit: Getty

The concept is how “Meh” the world would be ­without YouTube, and Ramsay’s role involves serving up a “meh-nu”. Geddit?

An insider tells me: “Gordon and David filmed their roles in London last week and Gordon was incredibly charming.

“David insisted on performing magic tricks for everyone.”

February’s Super Bowl is set to be star-studded with performances from Bad Bunny, and Charlie Puth.

BEYONCE TOUR TOP GROSSING

BEYONCE has spoken of her struggle to be taken seriously as an artist.

Her comments come as the US superstar saw her Cowboy Carter Tour named the No1 highest-grossing tour of 2025, according to US mag Pollstar.

Beyonce has spoken of her struggle to be taken seriously as an artistCredit: Instagram/Beyonce

The Texas Hold ’Em hitmaker saw the 32 stadium concerts gross a total of $407,600,113, (around £305million), with an average ticket price of £191.

She told Pollstar: “I’ve been touring since the age of 15, nonstop. I have slowly built my legacy brick by brick.

“This show is a testament to the power of consistency and the dedication put into any craft.”

On believing in herself when some of the industry did not, she continued: “I’ve learned at a young age that nobody invests in you like you invest in ­yourself. I’ve slowly built with every tour.”

Beyonce rose to fame in Destiny’s Child alongside Kelly Rowland and Michelle ­Williams.

She added: “The first tour Destiny’s Child did with Wyclef Jean, we toured in a minivan.

“On a later tour in the late ’90s, we did our quick changes in a muddy tent in the rain because we didn’t have proper dressing rooms, designing our own clothes because designers would not.

“A decade of visiting every radio station on Earth, advocating for ourselves. Slowly building into being able to tour with a small band.

“More building until we could tour with dancers.

“Finally, selling out my first arena as a solo artist. The decades of fighting with the promoters, convincing them that an R&B artist could sell out a stadium.

“I continued to invest in myself and stay focused on the vision.

“I’m beyond grateful for my fans that have been a part of my journey.

“It’s important to me that they leave the show reinvigorated and inspired, feeling more in love with themselves, and closer to the people they love.”

I was lucky enough to be at the tour this year and Queen B rules.

TIM RAPS RUMOURS

HOLLYWOOD actor Timothee Chalamet has quashed rumours he is masked rapper Esdeekid – by joining the Liverpudlian in a video for a remix.

Fans speculated the Wonka actor was the mysterious drill artist as they were said to have similar eyes.

Timothy Chalamet has quashed rumours he is masked rapper EsdeekidCredit: Instagram
Chalamet joined the Liverpudlian in a video for a remixCredit: Instagram

But in a 99-second video for EsDeeKid’s track 4 Raws posted online on Friday night, Timothee danced with the balaclava-clad bad boy in a cramped kitchen.

Timothee also referenced his rapper alter-ego Timmy Tim and his make-up mogul girlfriend Kylie Jenner.

The Oscar-nominated actor, right and below in the video, raps: “It’s Timothee Chalamet chillin’, tryna stack a hundred million, girl got a billion.”

While the full remix has yet to be released, the video clip has already received nearly two million likes, along with comments from UK rapper Central Cee and US rap star Rich The Kid.

Timothee is now promoting his upcoming movie Marty Supreme, in which he plays ping-pong prodigy Marty Mauser.

It’s a white laugh for Kyran

Snow White Drag Panto

★★★★☆

FORGET kids’ panto – this adults-only Snow White in London’s West End is packed with innuendo and belly laughs.

Drag Race UK champ Kyran Thrax slays as the venomous Wicked Queen, left, serving glorious­ glamour and killer one-liners, while newly-svelte Kitty Scott-Claus sparkles as the sassy Fairy.

Forget kids’ panto – this adults-only Snow White in London’s West End is packed with innuendo and belly laughsCredit: Supplied

The massive cast at the Emerald ­Theatre delivers outrageous comedy and audience banter, poking fun at everyone from Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor to Nigel Farage.

It’s pure festive filth – definitely not for snowflakes or prudes.

Grab your tickets quickly before it vanishes on January 4.

A proper cracker.

UNA TO HAM IT UP FOR CRIMBO FEAST

THE SATURDAYS’ beauty Una Healy is shunning traditional ­turkey this Christmas.

The Tipperary star explained: “We’ve got the bird flu in Ireland so we’ll have to have ham.”

It’s not the first time turkey has been off the Crimbo menu.

At last month’s Irish Post Awards she recalled: “My mum came to visit me and she bought the turkey. But it was so bad we had to throw it out. Even the foxes wouldn’t eat it.”

The Ready For Christmas singer says the glamour of life in the girlband – on hiatus since 2014 – is gone and she now drives herself to gigs, adding: “It’s back to basics. I do my own hair and make-up.”

What a trouper . . . 

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Stunned office workers discover colleague is former child star with role in huge festive film

A GROUP of office workers were left shocked when they learned their colleague is a former child star, and had a role in an iconic festive film.

The actor now keeps a low profile working as a Logistics Manager for the upcoming 2026 Commonwealth Games, which will take place in Glasgow. But do you recognise him?

Office workers had the highlight of their week when they realised their colleague is a former child starCredit: tiktok@commonwealthsport
Joe Lane was left mortified when his co-workers realised he was in the Nativity! movie back in 2009Credit: tiktok@commonwealthsport
Joe portrayed Edward, one of the key characters in the hit film NativityCredit: Lionsgate

Joe Lane appeared in 2009 hit Nativity!, which featured Martin Freeman, Jason Watkins and Ashley Jensen.

He portrayed schoolboy Edward in the film, which is centred around a heartbroken primary school teacher’s journey to make his class’s nativity play reach Hollywood, and win his ex-girlfriend back in the process.

In a TikTok shared by Joe’s colleagues, the former actor was left red-faced when they figured out his famous past.

The clip showed Joe, dressed in a Christmas jumper and a festive headband, as he is shaken by his colleagues.

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It then cuts to clips of him in the movie, before his colleagues recreate a hilarious moment by his character Edward.

Joe’s starring moment in the film saw him take to the microphone during the final Nativity performance and impersonate fart sounds with his armpit.

The former child star had his head in his hands when his co-workers cornered him at his desk and re-enacted the funny moment in the TikTok video.

“When you find out your colleague was in the nativity films,” read the video, with the caption adding: “The most exciting office development this week”.

The film was cast by producers holding open calls for local kids in Coventry, with the aim to use non-professional actors for an authentic feel.

After appearing in the first movie, Joe appears to have steered away from continuing an acting career.

He went on to become a semi-professional rugby player, before moving into logistics for sporting events.

Coventry-born Joe is now living in Glasgow after spending time in Australia and London.

It appears he has been keen to keep his famous past under wraps in the workplace.

One TikTok user commented on the video to reveal that they had previously worked with Joe, and had no clue of the connection.

“I worked with Joe at Coventry Rfc and unless I was out of the loop he kept this very well hidden!” they said.

Another commenter joked “So he didn’t become shrek??”, referencing the scene in Nativity! where character Mr. Poppy told Edward, “You could be Shrek”.

Joe as Edward, centre, in the Christmas smashCredit: Lionsgate
Joe was less than impressed when his colleagues reenacted his famous screen momentCredit: tiktok@commonwealthsport

A number of the children who appeared in Nativity! returned to their normal lives following the movie, and despite its massive success, have gone into regular jobs.

Cadi Mullane, who played Crystal – one of the main children in the film – previously detailed what filming was like in a TikTok video.

She said: “I was part of an agency called Stagecoach, they were looking for kids who were really chatty, who could dance a little bit and sing a little bit. Apparently that was me.

“There was about seven auditions. But I’m from Wales so I had to keep travelling up to London which was a bit annoying, but it was OK because I really wanted to be in a film.

“They looked at how well we could sing and how well we got on with the other kids, cause that was important, obviously.”

Cadi went on to recall how the movie filmed throughout the summer, with no scripts for the children.

She said: “It was filmed in Coventry but obviously I’m not from Coventry so we all stayed in a hotel together. It was like The Suite Life Of Zach and Cody, honestly.

“There was no scripts. Everything was improvised, except from some bits. We basically just spoke loads of rubbish, and then we were asked to say it again on camera.”

The film is centred around a Coventry school’s nativity show and their feat to take it to HollywoodCredit: Alamy
The film was fronted by award winning actor Martin FreemanCredit: Alamy
A number of local children took part in the film, with producers hiring non-professionals for an “authentic feel”Credit: Alamy

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Jet2 launches huge sale with £400 off all holidays and 20% discount on flights

These are big savings.

It’s never too early to start planning your 2026 getaway and it might be the best time yet as Jet2 has launched a huge sale, offering up to £400 off on all holidays. In a bid to help holidaymakers secure their getaway for next year, Jet2holidays has launched a sale just in time for Christmas. The UK’s biggest tour operator is offering travellers £100 off per person on all holidays, and a generous 20% discount on all Jet2.com flights, including one-way journeys.

This means a family of four could save a hefty £400 on a holiday to Spain or Italy, even during the school holidays. Additionally, hundreds of hotels and resorts offer free stays for children, providing the chance for even further savings.

But it’s not just families who can benefit. Couples booking a getaway with Jet2holidays during the sale can also enjoy a £200 discount on trips to destinations such as Greece or Cyprus.

The sale applies to all holidays, across all seasons booked through Jet2holidays, Jet2CityBreaks, VIBE by Jet2holidays, Indulgent Escapes and Jet2Villas. There are a bundle of holiday options available to suit everyone, from private villas nestled in Majorca near the Mediterranean coast, to an all-inclusive resort in Egypt with excursions to the sprawling desert.

However, there’s more. Holiday-goers can also secure their 2026 summer holiday for a low deposit of £25 per person.

Jet2 flies to more than 75 destinations across Europe from 14 UK airports so there’s a destination to suit everyone. However, if you’re hoping to take advantage of these savings you don’t have long as the sale runs until Monday, January 12, 2026.

Steve Heapy, CEO of Jet2.com and Jet2holidays, said: “Nothing beats the joy of booking a holiday and we are spreading that joy far and wide through the launch of this fantastic sale, making it easier for customers to getaway for less.

“Launched in time for the busy holiday booking season, Jet2 is offering holidaymakers fantastic savings on their holidays and flights, and we know that this, alongside our industry-leading customer service, will be a huge hit.

“With so much value and choice available, we look forward to welcoming even more new and existing customers, whilst showcasing what makes us the UK’s favourite tour operator and airline.”

For more information or to book your next getaway, you can visit the Jet2.com and Jet2holidays websites.

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

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‘Queen of the English Riviera’ set for multi-million pound revamp including playground upgrades and a huge new festival

A UK town dubbed the ‘Queen of the English Riviera’ is set to undergo a multi-million pound project.

Torquay in Devon is known for its many palm trees and sprawling beaches, leading it to being compared to the French Riviera.

Torquay will undergo a multi-million pound regenerationCredit: Alamy

And soon the town will undergo a number of projects to upgrade multiple areas as well as introduce new attractions.

Via the government’s ‘Pride in Place’ fund, Torquay’s Strand is one area that will be redeveloped.

There are also plans to introduce a ‘Festival of Torquay’ in 2027.

In total, 30 projects have been chosen for further consideration as part of the council’s 10-year aim to spend £20million on schemes that will make the town better, healthier and happier for those who live there.

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Other projects include restoring historic destinations in the town, such as The Royal Lyceum Theatre.

And for younger people, there are ideas of introducing a number of cultural spaces including a ‘Hidden High Street Creative Space’, a children’s society wellbeing hub, a creative and cultural space for young people and a Torbay Creative Exchange.

According to Torbay Weekly, Torbay Council interim place manager JonPaul Hedge said: “There have been so many brilliant ideas.

“And there are some super-quick wins in terms of delivery.”

Tracey Cabache of Torbay Communities said: “We need something to come forward in the first six months that is very visible for everyone to see.”

There will be a number of projects that aim to improve access to services in the town too, such as connecting different places, establishing a town centre drop-in for disabled and vulnerable people, opening a support and wellbeing hub, opening a number of community hubs and launching a homeless hostel.

The town will be tidied up as well, with more community bus information and opportunities to sponsor a path.

The Strand, which looks on to Torquay Harbour, could also see a large hotel in the future.

According to Willmott Dixon, the spot where a former Debenhams store stands could be transformed into an upscale hotel, with shops on the ground floor, a brasserie-style restaurant, a rooftop bar, fitness room and event space.

Willmott Dixon’s site states: “The food and beverage offering will showcase local produce, delivering a ‘Best of Devon‘ experience.

“The rooftop bar, accessible from The Terrace, is designed to become a destination in its own right, offering panoramic views of Torbay.”

Work is also being carried out on Torquay Pavilion, an Art Nouveau building that opened back in 1912 as an entertainment venue for concerts, theatre and cinema.

In total there are 30 projects that could be approvedCredit: Alamy

The Grade II-listed structure closed in 2012 and over the past months Torbay Council has been carrying out assessment works to understand the condition of the Pavilion.

That work is now complete and the council is now coming up with a proposal for the site.

Another site in Torquay that hopefully has a brighter future is where Living Coasts used to be located.

The tourist attraction, home to penguins and seals, closed back in 2020 and has been left abandoned since.

But now, ARC Marine – a reef technology company – has signed a long-term lease to use the site as a world-leading Marine Innovation Hub.

Even an upscale hotel is planned for the HarbourCredit: Alamy

The projects in Torquay coincide with transformations in the other two towns that form the English Riviera – Paignton and Brixham.

For example, via the Brixham Town Centre Place Vision, Brixham is due to become a vibrant coastal community, according to Torbay Council, with a focus on its historic fishing heritage.

Proposals include more pedestrian links in the town, creating family areas and launching more street food and waterfront activities.

In other regeneration news, a popular London borough to get huge £10billion makeover with parks, restaurants and ‘flower amphitheatre’.

Plus, a historic city centre is set for £2.5billion revamp in the UK’s largest regeneration project.

Paignton and Brixham – which make up the remainder of the English Riviera – are also set to undergo huge projectsCredit: Alamy

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Anne-Marie says ‘spicy’ new album will be VERY different to last & reveals huge pop star she asks for advice

ANNE-MARIE has vowed to shake things up for her upcoming fourth album – her first since 2023’s Unhealthy.

The Ciao Adios singer told The Sun that she’s determined not to return with a record that’s a copy-and-paste job of her first three albums.

Anne-Marie has promised her fourth album will shake things up and break from the pastCredit: Splash
The star also revealed she’s turned to longtime friend Ed Sheeran – who co-wrote her 2018 hit 2002 – for advice on juggling being a pop star and a parentCredit: Getty
Anne-Marie married rapper Slowthai in 2022 and they share two children togetherCredit: TIKTOK

Speaking backstage at Capital Jingle Bell Ball with Barclaycard, after she put on an intimate gig in Barclaycard’s Out Of The Blue area for lucky fans, Anne-Marie said: “Next year there will be new music.

“I think I need to switch it up a bit… Will I be rapping? Who knows.

“I am definitely switching it up.

“I need to make it exciting again, you know.

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“I can’t just come back as the same Anne Marie I have been for ten years.

“I am going to do a little spice.”

Since the release of her last record, the singer has welcomed two children, a daughter and a son, with her musician hubby Slowthai.

She says she’s turned to longtime friend Ed Sheeran – who co-wrote her 2018 hit 2002 – for advice on juggling being a popstar and a parent.

Anne Marie explained: “Be a parent, it’s hard.

“It’s like everyone says.

“It’s the best thing ever and the hardest thing at the same time.

“I think working is definitely hard.

“I find it harder than I thought I would, but they are beautiful little aliens.

“It does make you want more even though you are in hell.”

She continued: “I go to Ed for a lot of advice really.

“About kids but also about everything really.

“Now that we have kids he is like the perfect person to speak to.”

In September Anne-Marie released a teaser of what’s to come with her new track Depressed.

Admitting Christmas time isn’t always easy for people, Anne-Marie said: “I am very aware that people feel alone at this time of the year which makes me sad.

“But I think as long as you get through it and think of the next year and all of your dreams and plans that you want to achieve next year, you will be okay.

“Also just snuggle up on the sofa and watch a movie with some chocolate.

“Just take care of yourself and give yourself some love.

“Next year we start afresh.

“My go-to film at any time of year is Liar Liar with Jim Carey.

“Anything Jim Carey is my go-to.”

Anne-Marie welcomed her son in MayCredit: Instagram
Anne-Marie is seen here when she was pregnant with daughter ForeverCredit: Instagram

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Popular London borough to get huge £10billion makeover with parks, restaurants and ‘flower amphitheatre’

A BUSTLING area in London is set to get a massive £10billion makeover.

The site of a historic events and music venue in West London is set to undergo a £10billion redevelopment.

Earls Court will undergo a massive £10billion redevelopmentCredit: VisualBank

Work on the 44 acre site, where Earls Court Exhibition Centre used to be, is expected to begin next year, which is more than a decade since the famous venue was first demolished.

Once complete, the development will have 4,000 homes, 232,000sqm of workspace, three cultural venues and 20 acres of public space, including green spaces.

The three cultural venues will play into the site’s history of performance and there will also be a number of fixed and pop-up venues, as well as shops and restaurants.

Earlier reports and plans for the project also included a park with a climbing structure, slides and seating areas.

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And a ‘flower amphitheatre’ is part of the designs – though it is unclear whether these features are still included in the plans.

Eventually, there will be over 1,000 trees at the site by 2041.

During the first phase, 1,300 new homes will be built across six buildings, which includes a 42 floor skyscraper.

Earls Court Development Company (ECDC) is leading the project, which has taken four years to plan.

The Earls Court Exhibition Centre used to be a major events venue, which was closed in 2014 and then demolished.

It originally opened in 1937 with an Art Deco design and used to host lots of events like the British International Motor Show and concerts including Pink Floyd and David Bowie.

Once complete it will include 4,000 homes and three new cultural venuesCredit: VisualBank

The development will also be well connected, with three Tube stations and London Overground services nearby, as well as bus routes and pedestrian and cycle paths.

Construction is expected to begin at some point in 2026.

Rob Heasman, chief executive of ECDC, said: “Our plans will restore Earls Court as a global destination, a place for ingenuity, and for the extraordinary.

“Projects of this scale require ambition, partnership and patience to bring forward, and our ambition has been shaped by four years of engagement, listening and working in collaboration with our community.”

Jamie Ritblat, founder and executive chairman of Delancey, said: “It will create 23,500 jobs across the country, a new centre for the UK’s climate innovation sector, c.4,000 new homes and benefit the UK economy by £3 billion per year.

“Three new cultural venues will reinstate Earls Court as a destination people gravitate to for unparalleled performance and experiences, and the social and economic impact will be felt strongly throughout the local economies.”

Earlier this year London was named TripAdvisor’s best destination in the world… so here are our top picks for pubs, bars, hotels and attractions.

And here’s everything you can do at one of London’s most popular attractions before it closes ahead of £240million renovation.

Plus, London’s best family attraction that ‘feels like it was created for kids’ to get huge new nature playground.

Work on the site is expected to start next yearCredit: VisualBank

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Emmerdale fans ‘work out’ who will take Ray and Celia down in huge twist

Emmerdale fans think they have worked out how it will all end for Celia and Ray ITV soap after a tense scene played out during Wednesday night’s episode of the Yorkshire-based serial

Emmerdale fans think they have worked out who will see to the end of Celia and Ray the ITV soap. The villainous farmer, who has been played by Jaye Griffiths over the last few months, has been carrying out a reign of terror across the Yorkshire village alongside Ray as she heads up a drug dealing operation and slavery ring.

Celia hasn’t acted alone, having recruited teenagers April Windsor and Dylan Penders into her evil scheme. But, mainly, she orchestrates the whole thing with her foster son Ray Walters, whom she took in off the streets several years ago.

The pair may have been a duo for decades, but after Celia scuppered Ray’s romance with Laurel Thomas in the latest episode of the ITV soap by making out he was something he was not, she had her foster son in tears during a tense seen that came at the end.

READ MORE: ‘Millions of fans have watched me in Emmerdale for 23 years but my kids refuse to tune in’READ MORE: Emmerdale star says Mary ‘could kill’ Celia as heartbreaking exit teased

After slapping him straight across the face, she said: “You think she’ll make you life easier? She won’t! You need someone to keep you real, someone who will stop you drifting off into these fantasies of yours.

“She doesn’t know you, she doesn’t want you the way you think she does because you are weak, Ray. You need someone to tell you when to speak, how to feel, how to exist. And aren’t you lucky that I am still here doing exactly that.”

Ray promptly burst into tears, and Celia coldly said: “Cry if you want to. But wipe your face before anyone sees you. They already pity you, let’s not confirm why.” Celia then left the room and Ray punched the wall in a fit of rage.

Fans of the soap will know that Celia is set to leave Emmerdale after a relatively short stay in the village but have been left puzzled how Ray and Celia have yet to be exposed.

One fan wrote on Reddit: “Ross, Mackenzie, Lewis and Robert all know that Ray is a drug dealer after he wanted Lewis’ weed. Surely one at least one of them would have seen Ray still sniffing around in the village or seen him with Laurel? What’s the likelihood of all 4 of them not seeing Ray still sniffing around in the village? I know Ross saw him a few months ago but that didn’t lead to anywhere apart from Ross warning him to stay away from the village.”

“Yeah one of them would have seen him at least once around the village, in the cafe or the pub. Just so happened that when he’s been in the cafe Nicola has just seen him,” a second added. A third penned: “Did Mackenzie and Lewis meet him? Ross did confront him and he played it off. The only one who could know is Robert but he may not know the range of Ray’s drug business, he’s also not part of Laurel’s social circle,” with another fan responding: “Yep they all met him. It was one of his first appearances in the village. Mackenzie was actually the one who brought Ray to the village.”

Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX, with an hour-long episode on Thursdays.

* Join The Mirror’s WhatsApp Community or follow us on Google News , Flipboard , Apple News, TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads – or visit The Mirror homepage.



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The major airport that could become the second biggest in the UK ahead of huge expansion plans with 51million passengers

A PLAN to expand one UK airport has been approved – meaning it could become the second busiest in the country.

In 2024, the airport saw almost 30million passengers, but with the new plans could see 20million more.

London Stansted wants to expand to welcome 20million additional passengers by 2040Credit: Alamy
But this won’t require any additional runways or physical expansionCredit: Alamy

The airport in question is London Stansted in Essex which has plans for more flights, but no structural changes.

London Stansted could rise to become the UK’s second busiest airport, rather than the fourth, after councillors agreed to increase its annual passenger numbers to 51million.

The owner, Manchester Airports Group’s, latest plan is to increase passenger capacity at the airport to between 48 and 51million people per year by 2040.

In comparison, London Gatwick sees between 40 to 43million passengers each year.

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While you might think that the airport would need an additional runway, there are no plans to build one.

There won’t be a second runway, or exceed the airport’s limit of 274,000 flights a year.

The way it will increase its passengers is by accommodating larger planes.

On December 17, 2025, Uttlesford District Council’s Planning Committee ruled in favour of the application.

The airport currently serves flight across 40 countries, and is already working on an expansion costing a £1.1billion.

This work that started in 2025 is expected to be finished in two to three years and includes more seating areas and new shops, bars and restaurants.

London Stansted could see more travellers through its terminal than Gatwick AirportCredit: Alamy

It also includes a larger security hall, more check-in desks and a new baggage reclaim carousel.

Another London airport preparing for expansion is the busiest in the country; London Heathrow.

The £33billion plan for Heathrow Airport to create a third runway was given the green light earlier this year.

And ministers backed plans from the airports owners that would see the M25 moved to make way for the addition.

The Heathrow proposals involve building a 3,500-metre runway and a new M25 tunnel and bridges to be built 130 metres west of the existing motorway.

It is estimated to cost £33 billion, including £1.5 billion on re-routing the M25.

This would see nearby villages like Longford and Harmondsworth demolished.

It will see Heathrow’s capacity increase to 756,000 flights and 150million passengers per year.

For more on airports, here are two major UK airports to be much easier to travel to – after thousands caught out with strict £100 fines.

Plus, this mega £27billion airport set to open in 2032 as ‘Heathrow and Dubai rival’ reveals new name.

By accommodating larger planes, London Stansted could become the second busiest UK airportCredit: Alamy

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Pub punter stunned as she spots Oscar-nominated actor and his huge popstar girlfriend playing cards in busy boozer

A fan has been left stunned after they spotted an Oscar-nominated actor alongside his huge popstar girlfriend at a London pub.

The pair were filmed in a busy boozer playing cards and ordering drinks, going seemingly unnoticed by the other punters around them.

A fan has been left stunned after they spotted an Oscar-nominated actor alongside his huge popstar girlfriend at a London pubCredit: tiktok/@izabelle29012
Paul Mescal and Gracie Abrams were filmed in a busy boozer playing cards and ordering drinksCredit: tiktok/@izabelle29012
The pair went seemingly unnoticed by the other punters around themCredit: tiktok/@izabelle29012

The VIP guests, were none other than actor Paul Mescal and his popstar girlfriend Gracie Abrams, who were sat in the middle of a busy North London pub. 

In a video uploaded to TikTok the pair can be seen playing cards on a table together, in the beer garden of The Canonbury Tavern at night.

Paul looked inconspicuous in a cap whilst ordering drinks for the pair inside at the bar.

The fan took pics of the star as he ordered seemingly going unnoticed by the other punters around him.

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The eagle-eyed fan captioned the video: “Paul Mescal & Gracie Abrams playing cards in Canonbury.”

In the second clip which showed the pics of the A-lister at the bar, she wrote: “Part two of seeing Paul Mescal, Got to keep one of the cards they were playing with.”

Fans flocked to the comments in disbelief over the pair’s unexpected appearance, one user penned: “NO WAY.”

A second added: “Is that really them ??? when was this omg.”

A worker of the pub revealed that she’s even served the star before, they wrote: “ I work at this pub and I’ve served him before (crying laughing emoji).”

The couple were first linked in June 2024 when they were snapped having a romantic dinner date at celebrity haunt BRAT Restaurant in London. 

They were spotted again this year having picnics and drinks in a park in June, before they were snapped getting close at Glastonbury ahead of Gracie’s set, that same month.

It comes after Oscar-nominated actor Paul was ordered to lose some muscle and put on some fat for his next big role.

Paul will be playing Sir Paul McCartney in the upcoming Beatles biopic – and The Sun revealed that the hunky Gladiator II star has been told to go on a Normal People diet.

An insider said: “Obviously there weren’t really gyms around in the Sixties. 

“The Beatles weren’t dead-lifting between gigs. 

“Macca was always pretty lean and flexible — he has always been really into yoga — but this is a very different aesthetic to that of a burly gladiator, and Paul has been keeping his body pretty ripped, even after filming stopped.

“Sir Paul McCartney is also famously a vegetarian, whereas Paul mainly lives on a high protein steak, chicken and eggs diet. 

“There also weren’t whey protein shakes back in the Beatles’ day.”

Oscar-nominated actor Paul was ordered to lose some muscle and put on some fat for his next big roleCredit: AP
The couple were first linked in June 2024 when they were snapped having a romantic dinner date at celebrity haunt BRAT RestaurantCredit: Getty
Paul attended Gracie’s Glastonbury set back in JuneCredit: stellamccartney/Instagram

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Frozen in time village used huge film like ‘stepping into period drama’

Lacock village in Wiltshire is steeped in history and has been used as a filming location for Harry Potter, Downton Abbey, Pride and Prejudice and Wolf Hall, making visitors feel like they’re living in a period drama

A key filming spot for the BBC’s 1995 Pride and Prejudice adaptation, Lacock’s charming cottages and stunning countryside make visitors feel as though they’ve stepped into a period drama.

Its Wiltshire timber-framed buildings and magnificent cloisters have drawn numerous productions beyond Austen’s tale to its grounds. Lacock’s famous medieval Cloister, dating back to around 1450, also houses a verdant Cloister Garth. This striking architectural feature appeared in countless Downton Abbey scenes, and doubled as sections of the castle in the original Harry Potter films. It also featured in the BBC’s Wolf Hall adaptation. One TripAdvisor reviewer awarded the destination five stars, saying: “An absolute must if you are in the area! A beautiful village, which you can visit by parking just across the road in the National Trust car park.

“The village is a pleasure to walk around, totally untouched throughout history and is quintessentially English! From the rows of tiny cottages, the church, the tiny bakery, the village pub and a hotel, it has everything and all these are open and running. We stayed for a couple of hours and then had a wander around the Abbey which is also impressive.”, reports Gloucestershire Live. Another reviewer described the village as “frozen in time”, with Explore the Cotswolds concurring that the location “looks a lot like it would have done 200 years ago.”

Lacock’s magnificent abbey began life as an Augustinian nunnery, shuttered during Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries. Subsequently, John Ivory Talbot constructed the mock-Gothic hall – both are now in the care of the National Trust and available for afternoon exploration. A stone’s throw away stands St Cyriac’s Church. Initially believed to be a Saxon worship site, it later became Norman-controlled. The Church was erected near the close of the 11th century by Edward of Salisbury and William of Eu. The dedication to St Cyriac honours a beloved Norman saint.

The church houses numerous later memorials to the Baynards, Bonhams, Crokes, Sharingtons, Talbots and Awdreys. Yet for Harry Potter enthusiasts, the cloisters steal the show. For one devotee, exploring the cloisters topped her agenda upon arriving in Britain. She wrote: “Harry Potter fans NEED to do this! We’re from Canada. As soon as we landed in London, this was the very first thing we did. We did the Harry Potter Tour of London for Private Groups by Black Taxi. “Our guide was Richard and we can’t say enough good things about him! He was absolutely incredible! Ask him how he knows so much about this…such an interesting person, so knowledgeable and passionate about it all.”

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Stranger Things season 5 part 2 ‘unveils’ huge death and it’s not who you think

Stranger Things fans have pinpointed a specific tragic moment in the season 5 volume 2 trailer.

Stranger Things fans are in a frenzy after Netflix released the official trailer for the second part of season five. The epic video shows Will Byers (played by Noah Schnapp) feeling deflated after the gang failed to save the children from Vecna (Jamie Campbell Bower).

The teaser also shows Max Mayfield (Sadie Sink) and Holly Wheeler (Nell Fisher) as they attempt to escape Vecna’s trap, while the rest of the gang discover something major about the Upside Down.

While many fans still believe Steve Harrington (Joe Keery) could be at risk in the final season, other viewers believe another major death has flown under the radar, until now. They took to YouTube to pinpoint a specific moment, just over half-way into the video, when one of the main characters is seen coming face to face with a Demogorgon.

Robin Buckley (Maya Hawke) is seen walking down a hospital corridor, flanked by two armed men, as a Demogorgon comes charging towards them. The camera then turns to face the Demogorgon as it lunges at its target. @Kaiiizerrrp said: “1:18 omg, did you see Robin behind the military? [crying emoji]” While @Obama_Plays added: “Omg Robin please runnn” and @Sham-d3y shared: “I am gonna cry so bad.”

More fans picked up on the hint, with @AviAuthorColorado adding: “I’M GONNA CRY BRO LIKE ACTUALLY,” and @Sham-d3y expressing: “FINALLY SOMEONE SAW IT. I AM 100% SURE THAT’S THE SAD DEATH WHICH THE DUFFERS WERE TALKING ABOUT, IT WAS ROBIN ALL ALONG.”

This could be the case as episode five is titled Shock Jock, which refers to a DJ on a radio show who expresses opinions in a deliberately offensive or provocative way. At the start of season five, viewers saw Robin hosting her own show for The Squawk, which serves as a decoy for them to relay information regarding military operations to the Upside Down and the rest of the gang.

This is not the first time fans have predicted Robin’s death, as they believe Netflix had teased her demise after the unveiling of some photos for the fifth and final outing. The official Netflix Instagram account posted multiple photos showing cast members staring at an unseen threat, but one person was left out.

Robin’s absence did not go unnoticed, with one fan writing: “UM HI I BEG YOUR FINEST PARDON WHERE IS MY GIRL ROBIN AT?” Another added: “Hahaha very funny, where the HELL is Robin.”

Robin’s role in season five was pivotal as she helped Will harness his powers by making him believe in himself and not fear his authenticity. She also helped validate Will’s feelings when it came to romance, as she opened up on her relationship with Vickie Dunne (Amybeth McNulty).

Fans took to Reddit to explain how they believed Robin’s emotional speech in volume one of the final season is “SO intensely ‘this character will die’ coded.” MedievZ said: “The Duffers most definitely are not killing off the main core cast. Steve is too obvious of a death.

“Robin is the perfect character to die and get the maximum emotional impact while fitting into the story nicely and being an unexpected gutpunch. We do not see much of Robin in the remaining trailer shots.”

Elsewhere in the season five, volume two trailer, Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) was seen asking Kali (Linnea Berthelsen) to help her find and kill Venca, after the character’s epic return was unveiled in episode four. Dustin Henderson (Gaten Matarazzo) and Steve were also seen making a pact as they said: “You die, I die.”

Regardless of whether she meets her demise in the final season, Robin is set to live on through the latest Stranger Things novel – One Way or Another. The book, by TV writer and novelist Caitlin Schneiderhan, focuses on Nancy Wheeler (Natalia Dyer) and Robin as they solve an unexplained phenomenon.

The story is set following the events of Stranger Things season four – two months since Vecna’s earthquake tore through the town. Nancy and Robin are convinced they have discovered Vecna’s next victim – fellow student Joey Taft.

Stranger Things season 5 part 2 airs on Christmas Day in the US and Boxing Day in the UK

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All members of huge Noughties boyband reunite as they spark 2026 tour speculation

A HUGE Noughties boyband has sparked speculation of a 2026 tour after all ten members recently reunited.

The unexpected get-together has sent fans into a frenzy begging the question of whether a full-scale comeback could finally be on the cards.

All members of huge Noughties boyband Blazin’ Squad reunite as they spark 2026 tour speculationCredit: Instagram
The photos show the group beaming ear to ear as they came together at the bar Flight Club in LondonCredit: Instagram

Blazin’ Squad shot to fame in 2002 and are best known for their top three hits Crossroads, We Just Be Dreamin’ and Flip Reverse.

Blazin’ Squad was made up of James MacKenzie (Kenzie), Ollie Georgiou (Freek), Marcel Somerville (Rocky B), Chris McKeckney (Melo-D), Stuart Baker (Reepa), Lee Bailey (Krazy), Sam Foulkes (Spike-E), James Murray (Flava), Tom Beasley (Tommy-B), and Mustafa Omer (Strider) when they shot to fame.

The group officially split in 2005 and over the years the band members have gone in different directions.

Marcel Somerville enjoyed success on Love Island, having been on the show in 2017, before having another go in January on the All Stars spin-off.

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All ten members have since reunited for the festive season, it being the first time since Marcel’s first stint on the ITV2 dating show.

Rapper James Kenzie, who’s had his own reality stint appearing on Celebrity Big Brother in 2005, took to Instagram to share brand new snaps of the band.

The photos show the group beaming ear to ear as they came together at the bar Flight Club in London.

James uploaded a series of pics of the band alongside a nostalgic throwback from the 2000’s, showing the group decked out head-to-toe in red.

He captioned the post: “The Original Squad,” adding a number one medal emoji.

Fans flooded the comments, gushing over the pics and speculating about whether this could hint at a future tour.

One user said: “Please tell me talks of a tour was in conversation? (side eye emoji).”

Another added: “Aged like a fine wine (heart eye emoji)”

“Blazin’ squad reunion incoming plz,” penned a third, whilst a fourth commented: “Need a new Blazin’ Squad Album.”

“So good to see Blazin’ Squad as a 10 piece again now that is the Blazin’ Squad I grew up with,” chimed another.

The group’s various attempts to get all members back together have been stalled.

Marcel Somerville, Stuart Baker, Sam Foulkes and Chris McKeckney reunited in 2006, but later split again.

Three years later a slim-lined Blazin’ Squad returned as a five-piece featuring Mustafa Omer, James Murray, James McKenzie, Lee Bailey and Marcel.

And now the band consists of Sam, Marcel, Chris and Ollie Georgiou.

But, what fans really want to see is all ten members come back together on stage again.

Previously speaking to The Sun about a potential reunion and tour, Marcel said: “Obviously there are ten of us, it makes it a little bit harder, because that’s more people we have to bring back to the camp.

“Do you know what? I feel like if we could get all ten of us back together, I reckon we could definitely do the O2.

“Back in the day, before we split, we’d played Wembley, and had two nights in Manchester, two nights in Newcastle, and two nights in Birmingham.

“We were playing all the arenas, so it’s like, if we could get everyone back.

“Last year was the 22nd anniversary, so I think the 25th anniversary is probably the sweet spot. So maybe in three years’ time, 25th anniversary, I might start a whole campaign for it now, to bring the Squad back together.”

Blazin’ Squad shot to fame in 2002 and are best known for their top three hits Crossroads, We Just Be Dreamin’ and Flip ReverseCredit: Instagram
Marcel Somerville enjoyed success on Love Island having been on the show in 2017 and again in 2025 for All StarsCredit: Rex
Rapper James MacKenzie had his own reality stint appearing on Celebrity Big Brother in 2005Credit: Instagram

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Strictly bosses ‘thinking seriously’ over huge move for BBC dance contest

Strictly Come Dancing could be set for more big changes to go alongside Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman’s decision to step away from presenting duties at the end of the current series

Strictly bosses are reportedly eyeing up a big change for the scandal-hit show. Insiders claim the BBC dance contest could be about to up sticks and move north.

Currently, the long-running series is being filmed at a studio in Elstree, Hertfordshire. But reports suggest Kate Phillips, the BBC’s Chief Content Officer is “thinking seriously” about relocating to Media City in Salford, Greater Manchester.

It would see the show move to Dock 10, which is a purpose built studio complex in Media City. And it’s claimed any move would also see the show get a new boss with speculation rife over whether long-standing executive producer Sarah James is currently overseeing her final Strictly contest.

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A source told MailOnline: “She [Kate Phillips] is thinking about it seriously.” A TV insider also told The Sun: “A shift to Salford would be seismic.

“It would also make sense on many levels, but mostly from a PR perspective. It’s a clear statement of intent from the Beeb, who want to draw a line under the show’s troubled time at Elstree.

“There is a lingering sense of anguish that now seems to hover around the show and it’s one that bosses really want to dispel.”

And the source also claimed the move would be “logical in many ways”. However, a BBC spokesperson has since told the Mirror: “There are no plans to move Strictly Come Dancing, any suggestion is pure speculation.”

The show has been hit with a number of controversies and scandals in recent years. And there will also be new presenters from the next series after the announcement that Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman are stepping away from their duties.

After shocking fans with their statement part way through the current series, speculation quickly mounted about who will replace the dynamic duo. And professional dancer Ian Waite, who appeared on the show from 2004 until 2009, has shared who he thinks will be a great replacement for the pair.

Speaking to Reach about Tess and Claudia’s decision to leave the show on behalf of Zingo Bingo, Ian said: “I think it was a big, big shock for everybody that they decided to leave but when you’ve been doing something so long.

“Tess has been doing it for 21 years, it’s a long time to be doing any job. She might want to just move on to do different things and Claudia’s got Traitors, which is huge now So I can understand why they made the decision.

“I think they’ve been amazing but wouldn’t it be nice to have two men presenting this time just to spice it up? It’s been very much female presenter led.

“The main show and It Takes Two, so it would be nice to see some male presenters back in there just to balance it up. I think the public would like to see it.”

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Mickey Rourke in line for huge new film role playing music legend nine months after Celebrity Big Brother scandal

MICKEY ROURKE is trying to get his movie career back on track – despite his Celebrity Big Brother disgrace.

The veteran Hollywood star was booted off the ITV reality show earlier this year for his “unacceptable behaviour.”

Mickey Rourke is trying to get his movie career back on trackCredit: Getty
Mickey has been linked to a new Ozzy Osbourne biopicCredit: EPA
Rourke could also take on the role of music legend Johnny CashCredit: Getty

But luckily for Mickey his name has been linked to two big-screen biopics.

One is about the life of Black Sabbath legend Ozzy Osbourne while another will be on US country legend Johnny Cash.

One of my Hollywood insiders said Mickey’s name had repeatedly come up in meetings about the films when discussions turned to casting the older versions of the music legends.

They told me: “Producers here don’t even know about the Celebrity Big Brother thing, Mickey is golden in the States.

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“This town also loves an underdog, and movie bosses think Mickey still has an Oscar-worthy performance they can wring out of him.

“He was a top actor back in the day — he would have been on a par with James Dean and Marlon Brando if he hadn’t taken wrong turns and gone down a bad path.





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Jack Osbourne

“There are scripts in the pipeline on Ozzy and Johnny, and Mickey’s name has come up in meetings about both projects.

“They want to portray Ozzy’s final days before that amazing show at Villa Park, and they want a performance like Mickey gave in The Wrestler.

“They’re confident he could do it.”

It’s understood streaming giants Amazon MGM and Apple are interested in both projects, with big-name directors in the frame to oversee it — including Martin Scorsese.

Ozzy’s son Jack Osbourne first told me they were working on a film about his dad’s life before Ozzy’s homecoming show back in July.

Jack said: “We do have the film on the way. We have a lot of good forward momentum on the Ozzy biopic.

“We have a director attached now and the script is done and Sony Studios is going to be producing it.

“We are really excited about it so maybe we will do the premiere here in Birmingham.

“If the evil overlords of Hollywood give us the green light we could be filming in the spring so maybe it will be out summer 2027 — fingers crossed.”

I’m sure Mickey will be crossing his toes, as well as his fingers, that he gets the part.

JAMIE LEE: IT’S FREAKIER ONLINE

HER long-awaited sequel to 2003’s Freaky Friday – imaginatively titled Freakier Friday – went down a storm with fans.

And Hollywood legend Jamie Lee Curtis says she knows exactly why we are seeing a resurgence in sequels and prequels.

Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan in Freakier FridayCredit: PA

Speaking to comedian Geoff Norcott on this Times Radio show, Jamie said: “Nostalgia is very hot right now.

“Because people are feeling so freaked out by what’s happening that you cling, you cling to nostalgia to make you feel safe.”

Jamie, whose new film Ella McCay is out now, went on to slam cancel culture and attacks on free speech.

She added: “We’re all trying to figure out, what can we say? What can’t we say?

“The echo chamber is awful. Social media is awful. You say something that you believe in, you get hammered for it. I mean, hardcore.

“It’s hard to hold on to both the frustration you’re feeling but the sense of optimism and hope.

“I feel hope because I believe that the hatred is imploding, and I think we’re seeing it.”

Bizbit

GLASTONBURY might be two years away but festival boss Emily Eavis is busy curating the 2027 line up.

And Universal International’s official Instagram account has appeared to confirm that Tomora –  made up of Norwegian singer Aurora and Tom Rowlands from The Chemical Brothers – have already been locked in.

The post also claims the supergroup will play California’s Coachella Festival next summer.

This would be incredible

IT’S STAR SHREK

THE life of a Bizarre reporter isn’t all red carpets and bubbly – sometimes you end up in a swamp with an ogre and a talking donkey.

Our Jack was invited backstage at the latest adaptation of Shrek: The Musical at Colchester’s Charter Hall to meet the cast before they kicked off their near sold-out run at the venue.

Jack backstage at Shrek The MusicalCredit: Supplied

With Red Dwarf’s Danny John Jules as Donkey and CITV’s Chris Edgerley as Lord Farquaad, the show is based on the hit 2001 film starring Mike Myers and Eddie Murphy.

Shrek and Princess Fiona are played by Joseph Rawlings and Rachel Jerram.

A refreshing change from the annual festive panto, the cast delivered a brilliant version of the big screen hit with a seriously impressive set to match.

Shout out to Ceris Hine as the perfectly executed Gingy, delivering our favourite Gingerbread Man performance of the year.

Chatting backstage about playing the pint-sized villain, Chris explained how spending the show on his knees left him in agony at times.

He said: “I’m a lot taller than Farquaad so I’m knee-padded up to the hilt but it’s worth it.

“Halfway through rehearsals we had to add extra padding as it was hurting too much.

“Hopefully the audience will have as much fun as we do.”

Unlike the fairytale dictator, this musical certainly doesn’t come up short.

JAMIE’S SO FESTIVE

Jamie Cullum: The Pianoman At Christmas @ Royal Albert Hall, London

★★★★★

Jamie Cullum performs at the Royal Albert HallCredit: Alamy

THERE’S nothing more festive than a trip to London’s Royal Albert Hall at Christmas – although a Jamie Cullum show there beats anything else to get you in the spirit.

Inspired by his criminally underrated 2020 album The Pianoman At Christmas, his two-hour seasonal spectacle, backed by a big band – “this is what expensive musicians sound like,” he half-joked – was an absolute treat.

And soon there will be more. He said of himself and wife Sophie Dahl : “We are trying to write the film of the Pianoman At Christmas.

“I told her I was going to announce it tonight so now we have to finish it.”

His voice is as smooth as a pricey whiskey and sounded just as great doing his original numbers as it did with family favourites Frosty The Snowman and Jingle Bells.

And as for Hang Your Lights, it deserves to be a modern Christmas classic.

Forget the turkey and mistletoe, Jamie Cullum’s annual festive show should be a staple of everyone’s Christmas.

HOWELL DAVIES

LILY’S SKIT ON STRANGER FLINGS

DAVID HARBOUR has another TV show to avoid, after his ex-wife Lily Allen called up Dakota Johnson to bring her infamous “Madeline” to life on Saturday Night Live.

During the show, Lily performed her explosive track Tennis – with Dakoka playing the “other woman” Madeline.

Lily Allen performed on Saturday Night LiveCredit: YouTube/NBC
Dakota Johnson brought Lily’s infamous ‘Madeline’ to life on the showCredit: YouTube/NBC
Lily performed her explosive track TennisCredit: YouTube/NBC
Lily was married to Stranger Things star David HarbourCredit: Getty

At the end of Lily’s performance, Dakota brought Madeline to life and appeared to reveal for the first time what this other woman may have told Lily about allegedly getting with David behind her back.

Dakota said: “I hate that you’re in so much pain right now.

“I really don’t want to be the cause of any upset.

“He told me that you were aware this was going on and that he had your full consent.

“’If he’s lying about that, then please let me know.

“Because I have my own feelings about dishonesty. Lies are not something that I want to get caught up in.”

Dakota then planted a kiss on Lily’s cheek as she said: “Love and light, Madeline.”

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Huge new waterpark opens with 16 attractions and lazy river

A HUGE new waterpark has opened in a very popular winter sun holiday destination.

The Grand Hyatt Dubai Resort opened its massive new water attraction last month.

A huge new waterpark has opened in DubaiCredit: WhiteWater Group
The waterpark is part of the Grand Hyatt DubaiCredit: TripAdvisor

Working with waterpark experts WhiteWater, the attraction is set across 20,000sqm.

A huge central swimming pool, as well as a wave pool are in the middle of the waterpark.

There are also 16 attractions, including two tower slides.

One, called Boomerang, lets up to six guests slide next to each other with a 90-degree slop and “zero-gravity wall”.

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Or there is Freefall Plus, where riders are launched at speed town the slide, as well as the dual-ride Aqua Twist and Parallel Pursit.

There is even a surf simulator and a lazy river to try, as well as a fake beach with simulated waves.

For younger guests, there is a dedicated area with shallower pool and splash towers, as well as more shaded seating.

Otherwise you can also rent private luxury cabanas which have their own plunge pools.

Most read in Beach holidays

The hotel’s managing director Fathi Khogaly said: “The opening of our new waterpark marks a significant milestone for Grand Hyatt Dubai, as it elevates our leisure offerings and transforms the property into a truly unique destination, where large-scale events, exceptional hospitality and unforgettable leisure experiences seamlessly come together.

The waterpark is currently only open to guests of the Grand Hyatt Dubai Resort.

There are both big slides and smaller kid-friendly zonesCredit: WhiteWater Group

Deals currently include seven nights, with breakfast and return flights, from £990pp via On The Beach, or rooms from £222 a night with Loveholidays.

However, non-guest access to the waterpark is soon to be rolled out.

In the meantime, the world’s biggest waterpark is also in Dubai.

Aquaventure Waterpark is on the edge of Palm Jumeriah and has huge over 105 slides, attractions and even a private beach.

Not only is it named the best thing to do in Dubai on Tripadvisor but it has the world’s largest dedicated kids zone with lagoon, slides, pools and fountains.

It costs 330 UAE (£72.12) to visit for the day, but sign up and you can visit for free if its your birthday (or six days before and after).

We went down to try the waterpark – here’s what to expect.

The world’s tallest wellness resort and waterpark is coming to Dubai too – here’s everything you need to know.

It is currently only open to hotel guests but will soon open to the publicCredit: WhiteWater Group

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Wonka star Timothee Chalamet blows huge sum on luxury chocolate boxes for Christmas at Harrods

WILLY Wonka star Timothée Chalamet showed his real-life love of chocolates — by buying £3,500 worth in a spree.

The star, 29, called at posh Harrods department store to snap up lots of boxes of the goodies made by top Italian maker Venchi.

Timothée Chalamet as Willy Wonka in the 2023 film "Wonka."
Willy Wonka star Timothée Chalamet spent a whopping £3,500 on chocolateCredit: Alamy
A confectionery counter at Harrods in London, with a shop assistant in a boater hat serving customers.
The star spent the huge sum at posh department store HarrodsCredit: Alamy

He whisked the lot back to his five-star hotel, The Emory London, where four staff unloaded the haul onto a baggage trolley.

Timothée rented out the penthouse suite, which costs £11,000 a night, for his British jaunt.

A source said: “Timothée loves the chocolate.

“He wanted to buy as much of it as possible.

Read more on Timothée Chalamet

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“He plans to give it as Christmas gifts to friends and family in the US.

“He didn’t mind splashing the cash as he’s had a successful year.”

Timothée starred in 2023’s musical fantasy film Wonka, a prequel to 1964 Roald Dahl novel Charlie and the Chocloate Factory.

The actor, who is dating Kylie Jenner, 28, was in London to appear on BBC One’s The Graham Norton Show to promote his new flick Marty Supreme.

In it, he plays an aspiring table tennis player based on real-life ping-pong great Marty Reisman.

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Why the huge bidding war over Warner Bros? | Media

For more than a century, Warner Bros has been one of Hollywood’s biggest players, a legacy studio that helped define the Golden Age of cinema with iconic blockbuster movies. Now, it’s at the centre of a contentious, billion-dollar bidding war between Netflix, the world’s leading streaming platform, and Paramount Skydance, owned by the powerful Ellison family, which has close ties to President Trump.

Whichever way this goes, the outcome isn’t looking great.

Contributors:
Matt Craig – Reporter, Forbes
Daheli Hall – Writer and director
Lee Hepner – Antitrust lawyer
Dominic Patten – Executive editor, Deadline

On our radar

This week, Australia became the first country in the world to impose a social media ban for children less than the age of 16. The Australian government says it is taking on Big Tech and safeguarding children, but some young people were able to quickly bypass the new rules. Ryan Kohls reports.

The Imran Khan rumour mill

Despite being in jail for more than two years, Imran Khan continues to occupy airtime in Pakistan. After the army restricted access to Khan, rumours of his death ricocheted across social media.  Pressure from his supporters and family forced the military to lift the restrictions and grant Khan’s sisters access to speak to him. Meenakshi Ravi reports on the showdown between Imran Khan and powerful Field Marshal Asim Munir, and what it reveals about power, politics and narrative control in Pakistan.

Featuring: 
Amber Rahim Shamsi – Pakistan Editor, Nukta
Moeed Pirzada – Political YouTuber
Mohammed Hanif – Author and journalist

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Strictly Come Dancing’s huge shake-up as BBC tests ten stars to host show

BBC bosses have reportedly selected their top ten options for replacing Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman as Strictly Come Dancing hosts, and they are set to undergo ‘chemistry tests’

The BBC is ramping up its search for the next faces of Strictly Come Dancing, with insiders revealing that a shortlist of ten high-profile presenters is set to be put through intense on-screen chemistry tests as the corporation prepares for a new era of the hit show.

Now that Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman are stepping down from the series after more than two decades at the helm, bosses are said to be leaving nothing to chance.

According to insider sources, a “Golden Ten” have been assembled to take part in a secret studio session next month where presenters will reportedly be paired up in various combinations to see who has the strongest rapport on camera.

A source told The Sun: “Replacing Claudia and Tess is a mammoth task, but the BBC have whittled down the talent to ten people. They will go to a studio and be put into different pairs to see who works together best.”

Some of the frontrunners are Bradley Walsh, The One Show’s Alex Jones and British comedian Alan Carr, who is understood to be the current favourite among senior BBC figures.

Rylan Clark, Rob Rinder, Zoe Ball, Holly Willoughby, Amanda Holden, Alison Hammond and Angela Scanlon are also taking part. The source added: “It could be two women or two men paired, or a mix. They will ultimately choose whoever has the best chemistry in each partnership.”

Some contenders already have tried and tested on-screen dynamics. Rylan and Rob currently front a BBC travel series together, while Alan and Amanda host a home renovation show.

Meanwhile, Zoe Ball is seen as a safe pair of hands after previously presenting the Strictly spin-off It Takes Two. Alan’s growing appeal at the BBC has reportedly pushed him into first place among the talent being considered.

Given he is fresh off winning the Celebrity Traitors and has just recently landed a new quiz show, insiders believe he could bring a whole new audience to the ballroom.

Meanwhile, Strictly fans are bracing themselves for a sad goodbye to Tess and Claudia. The pair announced their decision to leave the show in October, explaining that it felt like “the right time” to step away after years at the helm.

Tess, who has presented Strictly since its launch in 2004, and Claudia, who joined in 2014, insisted they were always determined to leave together, calling their partnership “an absolute dream”.

The duo hosted Strictly for their penultimate episode tonight, and have already filmed their final Christmas special. Those at the recording studio said emotions were running high, with one insider revealing: “Tess was wiping away tears. The last Strictly episode next week is going to be emotional.”

The presenters were recently honoured with a touching message from the widow of the late Sir Bruce Forsyth, Wilnelia Forsyth, who praised both women for the “laughter, the elegance and the heart” they brought to the show.

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