ITV

‘Kate and Princess Charlotte played my song piano – it said everything about their bond’

The Princess of Wales personally requested compoer Erland Cooper to watch her and Princess Charlotte perform his piece, Holm Sound, at Windsor Castle for tonight’s Together At Christmas on ITV

The composer behind the piece of music played by the Princess of Wales and Princess Charlotte has spoken of his pride of witnessing their “incredible bond”. Kate was joined by her 10-year-old daughter for a special performance to launch her Together at Christmas carol concert broadcast on ITV1 this evening.

She personally requested Erland Cooper to accompany them at Windsor Castle earlier this month as they performed his piece Holm Sound. The award winning composer and producer, from Orkney in Scotland, cited as “one of the most unique, consistently engaging composers of his generation”, is renowned for taking inspiration for his melodic work from nature and connection.

READ MORE: Kate Middleton teases exciting mystery guest in exciting carol concert surpriseREAD MORE: Kate Middleton gets surprise nod from King Charles in his 2025 Christmas speech

Speaking of his shared passion for the natural world with the princess, who has credited immersing herself in nature as a marker in her recovery from cancer treatment last year, Erland said: “It was such a treat, such a lovely, warm and inviting day to be present with Their Royal Highnesses. It completely took me by surprise. I’m used to rambling around the ruins and brochs of the Orkney Islands, but to go to Windsor Castle itself was a slightly different architectural wonder.”

Erland, 43, wrote his classical piece in 2020 at the height of the coronavirus pandemic, taking inspiration from the wild environment of the Orkney islands. The Princess of Wales, who has played the piano since the age of 10, first wrote to Erland to express her love of his music and thank him for his dedication to promoting the beauty of the natural world through his craft.

Through their exchange of messages, the future queen revealed how she had enjoyed teaching Charlotte his compositions at home, creating a special bond between them. As she planned to create a special moment as part of her fifth annual Together at Christmas carol concert, celebrating hundreds of community heroes at Westminster Abbey, the princess requested to play one of her favourite pieces with her daughter as part of the television on ITV1 on Christmas Eve.

“I’m always in the head and hearts and back gardens of others. I often think, in this case, this little piece of music sort of landed on her shoulder like a bird,” Erland said. “And when you write a piece of music and you share it with the world, you’re sort of letting that out, and you’re letting it go, and you have no idea how far and wide it might fly. So it’s always a great surprise when people write to me or call me, and this was, you know, one of those great surprises. I didn’t expect it at all.”

Describing the moment as “a wonderful bit of serendipity” after originally composing the piece for his mother, Charlotte, Erland said: “We had a very warm, creative conversation earlier in the year, which was lovely, and then it culminated with an invitation to Windsor Castle. The princess asked ‘Would it be okay if we perform this piece of music that we so enjoy together?’

“It was such a lovely request so I said absolutely no problem at all. I was invited to witness this incredible bond between mother and daughter performing together and for that I am so grateful. And there’s a wonderful bit of serendipity as the piece was composed and dedicated to my mum, also called Charlotte, they didn’t know about, that it’s about motherhood, and how family plays such an important role and such a key part to all of this.

“The Princess and I both have a sort of shared love of music that celebrates the natural world and its rejuvenation and the wonder that you know that comes from it. There’s so much joy and warmth and creativity and ideas surrounding those themes.”

Erland, whose work combines field recordings with traditional orchestration and electronic elements, is renowned for burying the only copy of his first classical album as part of the “return to the natural earth” process. In 2021, after deleting all digital copies of his composition, he planted the master tape in peaty soil in Orkney, along with a “cheap violin”, the original score in a biscuit tin and a note to return to sender if it was ever found.

Erland posted clues on his website, but said if no-one found it he would dig it up himself and release the music in 2024, no matter how much the recording had changed. The score was discovered by two fans who found the soggy spool of magnetic tape buried in Stromness and returned it to him.

The record, titled Carve the Runes Then Be Content With Silence, later became a number one classical album, in collaboration with nature, topping the UK official charts in 2024.

Erland added: “I merely tap into the energy of the natural world, and I’m very grateful for it. It is a constant source of inspiration. It’s the life blood of my work. The idea behind my first piece was to compose, decompose, and then recompose. The finished piece would be a collaboration with Mother Nature. We all have this incredible connection to the natural world and I find it so warming that the Princess of Wales has found solace and such comfort in nature.”

On witnessing Kate and Charlotte sharing the stage together for their joint performance, he said: “It was just lovely. I think I was there for a little bit of encouragement. I mean, imagine anybody performing a piece of music in front of a film crew, and then the person who wrote it. Princess Charlotte played beautifully, she really has a wonderful way of playing the lighter notes just beautifully. So we were able to celebrate in that together.

“It’s certainly one of my favorite winter solstice moments. To walk into the Castle, to be greeted by a Steinway grand piano, and then to have a really poignant recital and performance. It was a very special, sort of quiet moment. There’s a power in reaching out to people, and that’s what they did here.”

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Emmerdale star speaks out over Kerry and Eric’s ‘ridiculous’ secret wedding

Emmerdale’s Kerry Wyatt actress Laura Norton has revealed all about her character’s shock wedding to village legend Eric Pollard, amid a separate wedding being planned on the ITV soap

Emmerdale‘s Laura Norton as revealed all about the shock wedding twist on Wednesday.

In an unexpected turn of events, fans saw her character Kerry Wyatt tie the knot with none other than Eric Pollard. Just as Jacob Gallagher and Sarah Sudden prepared for their own secret wedding, they rumbled the truth.

In a major plot twist is was announced the pair had wed, leaving Jacob horrified. Speaking about the scenes, actress Laura has revealed all behind the decision for Eric and Kerry to marry.

With the wedding coming about as a means of keeping Jacob’s inheritance safe, amid Eric’s concerns about his finances, Laura addressed whether there was more to it. She shared: “Kerry however dysfunctional and chaotic she is, is a girl with a heart who makes true friendships. She is loyal and does genuinely care and about and love people and when she came into the village, Eric and Val had adopted Amy.

READ MORE: Soap spoilers for next week: Multiple exits ‘sealed’, wedding drama and flashforwardREAD MORE: EastEnders legend Pam St Clement admits struggle with emotional return

“And they did a really fantastic job and she was well cared for and Amy was very happy. They thought Kerry was such a mess and a car crash but they were kind and they took her in as well because they loved Amy. But now Amy’s gone. I feel like this is some sort of misplaced guilt a little bit. I think she genuinely does care about Eric.

“They’re both loveable rogues, they’ve both got a really similar default, but I feel like it’s a full circle moment where it is like you looked after my daughter and I know that my daughter would want me to do this for you.”

Laura hasn’t ruled out love for Kerry and recent flame Jai Sharma though, while she hinted that for now it wouldn’t go anywhere. Laura said: “Kerry and Eric are a mad combination but it works and they’re doing it for all the right reasons.

“But her and Jai have hated each other for years. She worked under him at the factory, and they were always bickering and they come from two completely different worlds and now she works up at the depot and it is the same sort of dynamic.

“But there was this moment when they both got to look at each other in a different way, it was a massive surprise to both of them and for the fans, I had quite a lot of messages on social media with people just saying, I don’t know why, but that really works. She brings out a nice side of Jai. A softer side.

“I think that’s why he’s attracted to her as he’s been very doom and gloom and everything she does is a joke and then when she realises he had stuff going on with his son, everything she did was like jokes, but she genuinely, tried to help and suggested things to him and I think it changed his attitude towards her.. she’s not so bad, but she’s also like really funny. I think as to what will happen in the future, watch this space as yeah.

“Who knows? But it did surprisingly work well.” Laura enjoyed the twist too. She shared: “That period of filming was the most fun I had filming in ages, because obviously last year we did all of the limo stuff and I had to say goodbye to a few of the girls in the show that I loved, it was really a bitter sweet.

“Obviously, it was an amazing piece of television, but this recent stuff was just great back to old school Kerry and now she is partnered with somebody who is so.. it’s like a duo that you shouldn’t put together, but for some reason it just works. They are in a situation that is so ridiculous, it’s all so incredibly funny. So, yeah, I’ve loved it for several different reasons.”

Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX, with an hour-long episode on Thursdays. * Follow Mirror Celebs and TV on TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads .



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Jason Manford hits back as he’s branded ‘unfunny’ after hosting Royal Variety

Salfordian comedian Jason Manford was forced to defend himself when Royal Variety Performance viewers went in on him after he hosted the annual televised charity event

Jason Manford got defensive on social media when Royal Variety Performance viewers slated him on social media after it was aired on Sunday. Salford native Jason, 44, hosted the annual charity event, which saw the Prince and Princess of Wales enjoy the show.

But Jason Manford appeared to divide opinion with his jokes about class, opening the show with a quip about his kids being middle class, after he was brought up as a working class lad. Kicking off proceedings on the ITV show, Jason stated: “I’ve created monsters,” before explaining his kids refused warm ‘smashed avocado’, joking that it was actually mushy peas from the chippy.

Although his comedy seemed to go down well with the royals, even getting a chuckle from the Prince of Wales, viewers at home were more critical of the comedian. One viewer commented on social media: “Can’t believe Jason Manford is rehashing all this stuff about his brother and class. Been doing it for years #royalvariety.” Another added: “Nice enough bloke but he ain’t that funny. #RoyalVarietyPerformance.”

A third viewer wrote: “You complete ****hole! 99% of Uk can’t stand u!!” But Jason wasn’t accepting any negativity, replying to the unhinged comment: “Merry Christmas mate.” Not letting go, the viewer added: “You jumped up halibut! You’re a pauper in most eyes!” Jason responded: “And a Happy New Year xx”

Another viewer – who also had no profile picture – commented: “It would be better if he did not shout so much.” On one, Jason added: “It’s a a big room sweetie.”

Someone else commented that they thought Jason is being eyed up for the Strictly job, to which Jason joked: “Funnily no one has called, unless it’s a surprise to me too.” Oblivious, another viewer replied: “No one will either.” Jason got shirty, hitting back: “That was the joke f*** face.”

When another fan commented that Jason was “smashing it”, a disgruntled viewer replied: “We must be watching different shows,” to which Jason said: “Maybe you’re just not in the mood.”

But for every critic, there was praise for Jason’s hosting skills. One viewer posted: “You’re brilliant on Royal Variety! Definitely need to host again next year!” Others realised they’d caught feelings, with one typing: “How good does @JasonManford look!!! I mean DAMMN the crush I have on him wasn’t on the bingo card for 2025 #RoyalVarietyPerformance”

The event, which was recorded in November at the Royal Albert Hall, but aired on Sunday, raises funds for the Royal Variety Charity. The organisation supports entertainers and their families facing hardship and poverty.

For this year’s show, Westlife performed World Of Our Own ahead of their huge tour in their matching black suits and bowties. It was followed by a special performance from the Live Aid musical ‘Just For One Day’ followed, with Sir Bob Geldof and Midge Ure making an appearance to tell the story.

Stephen Fry appeared as Lady Bracknell from The Importance of Being Earnest, while Jessie J performed an emotional version of her track I’ll Never Know Why. Elsewhere, Britain’s Got Talent winner Harry Moulding performed an trick with the help of members of the audience, while Strictly’s Johannes Radebe led a performance from musical Kinky Boots.

Impressionists followed, with impressions of political leaders including Sir Keir Starmer, Donald Trump and Boris Johnson, while Jason went on to take part in a panto section. The show concluded with a Les Misérables performance, which saw 400 performers, including Michael Ball, Matt Lucas, Katy Secombe, Bradley Jaden and Killian Donnelly, mark the show’s 40th anniversary.

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READ MORE: World’s most popular ‘so feminine and elegant’ fragrance hits rare sale weeks before Christmas



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Sabrina Carpenter set to star in iconic TV series as it makes shock one-off comeback 45 YEARS after it was axed

THE Muppet Show is making a 50th birthday comeback — with pop superstar Sabrina Carpenter joining as a special guest. 

Disney has revealed Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy and the gang are back for a one-off special, more than four decades after the curtain came down on the beloved original series.

Sabrina Carpenter will be a special guest on The Muppet Show as well as serving as an executive producerCredit: Getty
The Muppet Show is making a 50th birthday comeback on Disney+Credit: Alamy

The show will stream on Disney+ from February 4, promising fans “music, comedy and a whole lot of chaos” from the original Muppet Theatre.

In a teaser clip, Kermit’s green arm can be seen turning on the lights of an old studio, before placing down a mug with his name on it.

The show originally ran from 1976 to 1981, with a generation of kids singing along to the theme tune: “It’s time to play the music. It’s time to light the lights.”

The series became so popular that big name stars clamoured to be guests, including Sir Elton John, Johnny Cash, Diana Ross, John Cleese and Debbie Harry.

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It was broadcast in more than 100 countries and in 1978 Time magazine called the show “the most popular television entertainment now being produced on Earth”.

The series won a host of awards, including Emmy, Grammy and Bafta gongs.

Despite the lights going out on the main series, the Muppets Tonight talk show ran from 1996 to 1998.

Other short-lived TV projects followed, including a mockumentary series in 2015, the Muppets Now short form series in 2020 and The Muppets Mayhem musical comedy series in 2023.

A host of movies included The Great Muppet Caper in 1981 and The Muppet Christmas Carol in 1992.

The last film, Muppets Most Wanted, in 2014, starred British comedian Ricky Gervais.

Muppets creator Jim Henson died in 1990 and Disney bought the rights in 2004.

Sabrina, who has had four UK No1 singles and two UK No1 albums, is an executive producer for the new show, as is Canadian comedian and actor Seth Rogen, who was in the 2020 series.

The show will stream on Disney+ from February 4Credit: Youtube
Disney+ released a teaser showing a mug with Kermit’s name on itCredit: Youtube

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Royal Variety Show viewers gobsmacked as Westlife ‘haven’t aged in 25 years’

Royal Variety Performance viewers were left stunned to see Westlife on stage at the ITV special, claiming the Irish boyband hadn’t aged a day

Royal Variety Performance viewers were left gobsmacked to see Westlife take the stage, insisting they hadn’t aged a day.

The ITV spectacular made its return this evening, with presenter Jason Manford welcoming an array of acts including Jessie J, Paddington The Musical and Sir Stephen Fry.

During the early stages of the programme, Irish boyband Westlife delivered a medley of their biggest anthems, sending fans into raptures.

One gushed: “Westlife haven’t aged in 25 years,” whilst another declared: “The gorgeous Westlife fellas!”

A third person raved: “Westlife still the finest boy group,” while someone else exclaimed: “3 ‘Benjamin Buttons’ right there! Looking incredible boys! ! !”, reports Wales Online.

Another spectator remarked: “Well those Westlife lads are looking and sounding as good as they always did.”

Yet another agreed: “These boys from Westlife literally look the same.”

The performance saw Shane Filan, Nicky Byrne and Kian Egan take to the stage. The Irish band formed in 1998, consisting of the three bandmates as well as Mark Feehily.

Brian McFadden was also a member of the band before he left to pursue a solo career in 2004. Westlife disbanded in 2012, but later reunited in 2018.

Mark has not joined the band in recent performances, with the group launching an upcoming world tour and releasing four songs this year.

He recently shared the health setbacks he’s faced, including a pneumonia diagnosis in 2022.

In June, Mark’s absence from Westlife’s shows was announced as part of their anniversary plans. The band said in a statement: “Sadly, Mark will be unable to join the celebrations. We hope he can join us back on stage when he is ready and able. He sends his love and positivity to you all as always.

“The four of us can’t quite believe its been 25 years. We could only have dreamt of the continued love and loyalty you have consistently shown us around the world.

“We are so lucky to have all of you with us and we can’t wait to celebrate together! Happy 25th To Us All! Love, Kian, Mark, Nicky and Shane x.”

Last year, Mark had announced a temporary departure from the band, ahead of their first American tour.

He said: “Hello and much love to you all! It’s Mark here.. Most of you are aware that I have had some health challenges over the past while.

“It actually all started 3.5 years ago in August 2020 when I had surgery. Within a few days of this surgery I was in severe pain and was rushed into A&E.

“I eventually ended that awful day in ICU (Intensive Care Unit) where I was informed that due to a complication with the surgery, I had developed severe ‘Sepsis‘, a life-threatening infection that would require immediate emergency surgery to rectify the problem and basically save my life.”

He went on: “It was physically and mentally a very difficult time, not to mention traumatic having to spend so long in ICU.

“In late 2021, I became very ill in Newcastle before a concert and ended up back in A&E, this time being told I had pneumonia. I was told I had to go straight home to recover and regrettably miss the rest of the concerts that December.”

He continued by explaining other surgeries he required, saying he “tried my best to soldier on” for fans, but “the physical demands of the concerts and extensive travel were proving too much for me”.

After developing a “incisional hernia” and requiring his fourth major surgery, Mark confirmed his temporary hiatus from the band, saying: “It is with the upmost level of regret that I must now temporarily stand down from all Westlife touring until a time ote: that I have had the chance to fully recover from the turbulent journey I have been through as an individual.

“Believe me, I wish things could be different! I would like to thank you so very much for your support and understanding of me and my health over the past few years.”

The Royal Variety Performance is airing on ITV1.

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What time does Emmerdale air on Christmas Day? Festive schedule and spoilers revealed

Emmerdale fans have a lot to look forward to on the ITV soap this Christmas – and this is when they can tune in as all the drama unfolds over the festive period

Emmerdale fans are looking forward to tuning in on Christmas Day – and it’s looking like quite a dramatic time during the festive time on the farm. Viewers of the long-running ITV soap, which first aired in 1972, would expect nothing less from the programme but it’s already been quite the year for the residents of the Yorkshire-based village.

This Christmas, there’s concern for Robron as a threat looms for newly reunited Aaron Dingle and Robert Sugden. When news of a possible return is shared not everyone is immediately happy about it, sparking a new feud. Ross Barton is blindsided when he finds out Aaron and Robert are planning to bring Robert’s son Seb back into their lives. Ross was Seb’s stepfather and helped raise him, until Seb’s mother Rebecca White sadly passed away.

What’s more, someone will be showing lurking in the shadows with intent and their reign of terror is only just getting started. When the trees outside his flat are set alight, Aaron once again blames Ross, only for Robert to uncover who the real culprit is. Will he be able to stop them? As Christmas Day arrives Aaron is puzzled when Robert heads off on a mystery errand. Soon there’s serious concern when he doesn’t return – so what has happened to Robert?

READ MORE: Emmerdale Christmas spoilers: Return sealed, escape plan and Robert ‘missing’READ MORE: Emmerdale fans ‘rumble’ who is set to expose Celia after shock confrontation

What time is Emmerdale on Christmas Day? What happens?

But when exactly will fans be able to catch all the Yuletide drama? Traditionally, the soap airs weeknights at 7:30pm in a half-hour slot, often just before Coronation Street. Eager fans can also watch the latest instalment from 7am on the day of broadcast by logging onto ITVX.

However, on Thursday 25th December, the festive special of Emmerdale will air at the significantly earlier time of 6:15pm. Prior to that, the programme will hit screens at 6:55pm on Christmas Eve and once the big day is all over, the soap air again at 6:30pm on Boxing Day.

Emmerdale will then resume its ordinary slot in the days after Christmas, and conclude the festive period with an hour-long special on New Year’s Day.

There’s lots more for fans of Emmerdale to look forward to this Christmas, as evil mother-and-son duo Celia Daniels and Ray Walters are fearing the game is up and they may need to flee, amid their shocking drug schemes being exposed. But with Ray growing closer to Laurel Thomas, could he dare to dream of starting things afresh away from his evil mum?

Kim Tate’s recent near-death experience leaves her pushing people away, and soon Joe Tate is furious by a confession from Lydia Dingle. Joe returns to Home Farm to patch things up with Kim but she sends him packing.

But when she falls and hurts herself, she calls for help only for Lydia to arrive and help her. Kim immediately dismisses her, and she’s soon facing Christmas alone.

Wrapping up Christmas, there’s a public marriage proposal happens, Paddy is missing his father Bear as he remains on Celia’s farm, and Vanessa and Charity are strong-armed into spending Christmas Day together. When Vanessa gets drunk, Charity fears the beans will be spilled as a threat looms.

The entire festive schedule for the ITV soap is as follows: :

Monday December 22 – 7.30pm (30 minutes)Tuesday December 23 -7pm (30 minutes)Wednesday December 24 (Christmas Eve) – 6:55pm (30 minutes)Thursday December 25 (Christmas Day)- 6:15pm (One hour)Friday December 26 (Boxing Day) – 6:30pm (30 minutes) Monday December 29 – 7:30pm Tuesday December 30 – 7:30pmWednesday December 31 – 7:30pmThursday January 1 (New Year’s Day) 7pm (One hour)Friday January 2 – 7:30pm

Emmerdale airs weeknights at 7:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX, with an hour-long episode on Thursdays. * Follow Mirror Celebs and TV on TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads .



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ITV Loose Women exit confirmed as host makes sad announcement

Loose Women host Kaye Adams bid farewell to another co-star on Friday

Another Loose Women exit has been confirmed as host Kaye Adams made a sad announcement on Friday (December 19).

Friday’s instalment of the beloved ITV programme was fronted by Kaye, alongside panellists Denise Welch, Katie Piper and Jane Moore, as they discussed the day’s biggest talking points.

As the show drew to a close, Kaye revealed that producer Helen Stuart would be leaving the programme today.

“We also have to say a very, very fond farewell to our lovely producer, Helen, who is going off to pastures new. So, you take with us your love, Helen,” Kaye announced.

Jane and Denise chimed in with their farewells, saying: “Good luck, Helen!” reports the Express.

The departure follows closely after fellow Loose Women producer Eleanor Cotter said goodbye to the show following an 11-year stint, amid a series of changes at ITV.

Kaye broke the news on Wednesday (December 17), stating: “I might have a little cry today because our cherished producer Elle, it’s her last day after 11 years. So, we’re going to say we love you, Elle,” whilst Nadia Sawalha expressed: “We’re so sad.”

Later during the broadcast, Kaye acknowledged other departing crew members, including floor manager Katie Keates.

“I mentioned our lovely Elle, our producer, just before the break there and it’s a few last days today in the studio, of course, because we’re moving studios,” the presenter explained.

“Katie, our lovely floor manager, who’s looked after us. We’ve known her since she was a girl. And lots of our crew actually as well, so thank you very much to all of you. They’re an amazing bunch of people, they really are.”

This follows ITV’s announcement earlier this year of significant changes to its daytime line-up, affecting Loose Women, Lorraine, This Morning, and Good Morning Britain.

From January 2026, these programmes will move to a new central London location and operate under a restructured broadcasting timetable. The shake-up will see Loose Women revert to its previous 12.30pm to 1.30pm slot on a 30-week “seasonal basis”.

The programme will also be scrapping its live studio audience, meaning comedian Lee Peart will step down from his role as warm-up act – a position he’s occupied since 2017.

Before his exit, Lee made an on-screen appearance during today’s Loose Women, presenting the competition segment, which is typically fronted by Jeff Brazier.

Loose Women airs weekdays on ITV1 and ITVX at 12.30pm

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Kelvin Fletcher unveils ‘transformation’ in exciting farming update

Kelvin Fletcher and his wife Liz Fletcher shared a festive farm update just days before Christmas

Kelvin Fletcher has unveiled a “transformation” in an exciting farming update.

The former Emmerdale star and his wife Liz are known for their appearances on Fletchers’ Family Farm with their children Marnie, Milo, Maximus and Mateusz.

On Friday’s (December 19) episode of ITV’s Lorraine, the couple opened up on their festive plans for their 120-acre Peak District farm in a pre-recorded segment.

Christmas is around the corner and we’ve got a lot to do. We have to decorate the entire farm for a magical Christmas at the farm,” Liz explained, with Kelvin adding: “It always starts with me and Liz bringing our ideas to life, so yeah, we’ve got quite a busy few weeks coming up.”

The couple began by reusing an old wooden pallet to make a welcoming Christmas sign. Kelvin chose black paint for the lettering, with the star jokingly admitting: “If it’s bad, I’m going to say the kids have done it!”

Liz then quipped: “I don’t think Meghan Markle will be getting you on her show, Kelvin.”

She added: “I’m supposed to be the creative one in the family, but it is really therapeutic to do and I can always tell Kelvin, although he’s like, ‘Yeah, you get on with that,’ he always wants to get involved. As you can see, he takes it quite seriously.

“When I met Kelvin, he was a proper lad’s lad. Drinking beers out with the rugby lads. Look at him now, taking painting a pallet really seriously.”

The pair then turned their attention to transforming the farm for an upcoming Christmas event, with “tonnes of decorations” being prepared to bring some festive cheer.

Kelvin said: “We’ve got a Christmas event coming up soon, so I think it’s going to be quite key for that. It’s a nice welcome notice. And then we’re going to transform the whole farm into a winter farm wonderland, if you like. There will be fairy lights galore and snowmen, it’ll feel very Christmassy.”

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Liz added: “We got a tonne to decorate and it feels like we’ve not even started.”

Kelvin then went foraging for holly, before Liz created a stunning wreath for their front door using Christmas tree stems, baubles and other decorations. “I like to have a wreath that’s already made and go quite big with it, or you can start from scratch,” she said.

“My favourite thing about Christmas is it’s the only time that you’ll get your brothers, the wives, the cousins, the aunties all together. You’ll have tables at all different heights because you’re using all the emergency tables, all the emergency chairs. But you’re all there, and that’s what I love. I love seeing all the children together with their cousins, that’s what’s special.”

If you’d like to see more of the Fletchers over Christmas, you can stream an exciting festive special called Fletchers’ Country Workshop on ITVX, which sees Liz showcase her newfound passion for upcycling, crafting and interior design, just in time for Christmas Day.

Lorraine airs weekdays on ITV1 at 9am, while Fletchers’ Family Farm is available to stream on ITVX

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Good Morning Britain star warns ‘they could die’ in heartbreaking news update

Good Morning Britain host Adil Ray discussed a “serious situation” on Friday

A Good Morning Britain star warned “they could die” in a heartbreaking news update on Friday (December 19).

During the latest episode of the popular ITV breakfast show, presenters Adil Ray and Charlotte Hawkins brought viewers up to speed with breaking news from Britain and beyond.

They were accompanied in the studio by Sean Fletcher, who covered additional news items, whilst Laura Tobin delivered regular weather forecasts live from Nottingham.

Later in the programme, Adil and Charlotte examined the day’s pressing issues alongside regular panellists Salma Shah and Caroline Flint.

The discussion soon turned to the continuing Middle East conflict, with Adil identifying the eight Palestine Action campaigners who have been engaged in an indefinite hunger strike at HMP Bronzefield in Surrey, reports Wales Online.

The protest action commenced on November 2 and has been characterised as “the biggest coordinated prison hunger strike” in nearly four decades in Britain, according to campaign organisation Prisoners for Palestine, speaking at a press briefing on Thursday (December 18).

Over 800 medical professionals, legal specialists, and relatives have written to Justice Secretary David Lammy, calling on him to meet with their legal representatives to address the continuing demonstration.

“They have been arrested and charged because they were part of the Palestinian protests. Some of them have been on hunger strike for 47 days, it’s 48 now actually,” Adil stated.

“I’m too young to remember, but in 1981, IRA prisoners went on hunger strike. Some of them died within 46 days. It’s a serious situation.

“Should we be doing more in this case, Salma? Should the government be intervening? They’re saying the prisons have a system to deal with this. These could die. These prisoners are on remand, but they could die in prison.”

Salma responded: “It’s a difficult situation because nobody wants them to die, and they have decided to take a very drastic measure by going on a hunger strike.

“As I understand it, of the eight, there were six that were in critical condition; two of them have now stopped their hunger strike because they were in such a bad way.

“What we need to do is ensure that the medical support team that is in prison is allowed to try and convince them that this is not the right action going forward, because losing lives is not going to fundamentally change what they want to change.”

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Justice previously stated: “The Deputy Prime Minister has responded to and will continue to respond to correspondence on this issue, and is being kept informed of the situation. We continually assess prisoners’ wellbeing and will always take the appropriate action, including taking prisoners to hospital if they are assessed as needing treatment by a medical professional.”

Good Morning Britain airs weekdays on ITV1 and ITVX at 6am

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This Morning guest ‘violated’ after ‘horrendous’ discovery on Richard and Judy’s show

The former This Morning guest shared how Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan treated her off-camera, following a “disastrous” moment on the show

A former This Morning guest has revealed how her appearance on the show ended in disaster. Hosted by Richard Madeley and Judy Finnigan at the time, podcast host Louise Boyce said she was invited onto the show as a teenager for a live haircut, though was mortified by the outcome.

Joined by Richard and Judy’s daughter Chloe Madeley on her podcast, she told her: “Your mum and dad, it [This Morning] was the first TV show that I went on when I was 15. And, I really want to find the footage, it must be in the archives somewhere, but I went on there to have my haircut, a live haircut.

“I was 15 years old, I was still at school and very aware of how I looked and the haircut was disastrous.”

Recalling her immediate reaction, she said she instantly knew it was “horrendous” but politely told the hairdresser she “really liked it” with a shaky voice.

“But, your mum and dad were so kind to me because they must’ve seen or felt that I was just like, ‘I hate what you’ve just [done to me’]’,” she continued on the No Parental Guidance podcast.

“‘You have just violated my hair live on TV, my first ever TV [experience]’. And they were so, your mum and dad, even off-camera they were like, ‘Hair grows, it’s okay’.”

In response, Chloe gushed: “I can’t say it enough how kind he is and how fair of a man he is and how unbelievably good his values and [morals] are. I get really angry when people go for him because I’m like, ‘You don’t know how good this person is’.”

The fitness guru continued by revealing she’d also picked up valuable lessons from her mum, especially regarding being “a calm” and “well adjusted” parent.

Richard and Judy presented the ITV programme from 1998 to 2001. When previously asked about their decision to leave the show, they said it felt like the right moment to move on and explore new ventures.

The duo went on to front their own programme, Richard and Judy, which was broadcast during early evening slots on Channel 4.

Richard remains a familiar presence on ITV as a presenter on Good Morning Britain, while Judy has stepped away from the public eye.

The former broadcaster was most recently spotted on television during their daughter’s ITV documentary, Chloe Madeley: A Family Affair.

However, after running for just one series, it didn’t return following Chloe’s split from rugby player James Haskell.

The pair, who are parents to two-year-old daughter Bodhi, announced their separation in 2023 after five years of marriage.

During her recent podcast chat, Chloe revealed that the former couple are still navigating a “stressful” divorce.

Providing an insight into her love life situation, she said she’s content with being single after having a disliking her experience on dating apps.

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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.

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Love Island star gets engaged to mystery partner days before Christmas

Love Island star Hayley Hughes has announced her engagement to a mystery partner, sharing photos of her huge ring as well as her adorable son Cody

A former Love Island star has announced her engagement.

Hayley Hughes has shared a collection of glamorous proposal photographs from Dubai on Instagram, showcasing her stunning engagement ring.

The blonde bombshell appeared on the fourth series of the ITV2 reality programme in 2018, which saw Dani Dyer and Jack Fincham crowned winners.

She captioned the post: “12/12 – my forever love. I love you so much.”

Hayley has chosen to maintain her partner’s privacy by cleverly cropping his face from photographs and avoiding any social media tags, reports the Liverpool Echo.

Her son Cody, born in 2023, features in the images, with one touching moment showing Hayley’s fiancé cradling the youngster.

Unsurprisingly, Hayley’s announcement has sparked an avalanche of congratulatory messages from her supporters.

Rosie Williams, who starred alongside Hayley in the same Love Island series, commented: “Congratulations my girl! So happy for you.”

Fellow Islander Liberty Poole, from series seven, simply added: “Congratulations”.

One fan gushed: “Omg huge congratulationsssss. The ringgg. The flowerssssss.”

Another enthused: “Ahhh best news ever! ! So happy for you, wifey era pending.”

Hayley entered Love Island as an original islander in 2018, but following unsuccessful romantic pursuits with Eyal Brooker – who memorably declared “I’m not your hun, hun” – and Charlie Brake, she departed the villa.

Following her Love Island exit, she embarked on a relationship with DJ Tom Zanetti, even appearing in one of his music videos, though their romance concluded after seven months. As 2023 kicked off, Hayley penned a post about spending “another year” with her enigmatic beau.

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In a chat with RadioTimes.com following her villa exit, Hayley reflected: “I did really think that Eyal was a bit full on with Megan [Barton Hanson] so soon and he wouldn’t really let Alex [George] have a chance to get to know and speak to her.”

She added: “Obviously I feel like I genuinely am Team Alex in every way because I genuinely want him to meet someone that he has a connection with, because he does have low confidence and things.”

Love Island is available to stream on ITVX

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Stephen Mulhern reveals the very unusual holiday destination that ‘changed his life’

WE know Stephen Mulhern as a cheeky chappy TV host with a warm smile who is quick with a gag.

But when his mates Ant and Dec challenged him to make a travelogue, Stephen — best known for TV shows Saturday Night Takeaway, Deal Or No Deal and In For A Penny — was terrified.

Stephen Mulhern was taken out of his comfort zone when he was sent to film a travelogue in South KoreaCredit: IYV

Because what people probably don’t know about the 48-year-old is that he has lived, in his own words, a very sheltered life.

And of all the destinations Ant and Dec could have picked for him to visit in their new ITV show, Accidental Tourist, South Korea would be the most challenging one.

What is, in places, a funny entertainment show, turned into a life-changingly emotional experience for Stephen, not least because he had recently lost his father Christopher.

He says: “The idea of doing something out of my comfort zone was terrifying, but recently I feel I’ve wasted a lot of time doing the same things.

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“I’ve thrown myself into work for so many years that I’ve never really gone, ‘Let’s try something new’.

“So when Ant and Dec suggested this, I thought, ‘I’m going to really go for it’.

“It’s taught me a lot. I thought it would just be an experience that lasted for as long as it took to make the show, but it’s actually changed my life.”

Stephen has always stuck to the familiar, like eating roast dinners and holidaying on the Med.

Fear of the unknown has stopped him from ever swimming in the sea or eating mayonnaise.

So when Ant and Dec lined up a host of Korean challenges — including eating octopus and doing a naked sauna — Stephen panicked.

“It exposed so many fears,” he says. “But sometimes you’ve got to break patterns, because otherwise you’ll never grow. It’s too easy to say, ‘This feels comfortable’.

“For example, I’ve always eaten bland food like steak and chips, roast dinners.

“But although I didn’t like a lot of the Korean food, some of it was quite nice. And now I’ve got chilli flakes in my cupboard!”

Born in Stratford, east London, Stephen grew up with market trader parents Christopher and Maureen and siblings Vince, Chris and Susie.

Holidays were in seaside resorts such as Margate, or Butlin’s parks.

He says: “They were the best times. We’re a very working-class family: I worked from the age of 11 in Petticoat Lane with my family and we’d save up enough money to play the penny arcade machines or whatever.”

Stephen says the show will be a ‘bit of a curveball’ to audiences who normally watch him on TVCredit: itv
Stephen waded into the sea to dive for fish – but his anxiety meant he almost did not go ahead with itCredit: itv

It’s understandable, then, that Stephen felt pushed out of his comfort zone when he went to Korea.

One particularly moving scene shows him wading into the sea to hand dive for fish with locals. He ends up in anxious tears and almost doesn’t go through with it, telling the producers to stop.

“I’ve never in my life felt anxiety like it,” he admits.

“But I felt so triumphant at the end when I’d done it. It was a very special moment.

“I’ve never got emotional on TV. There are times where I listen to contestants’ stories on Deal Or No Deal where I feel emotional inside, especially when my dad passed away.

“But with this, you can physically see how upset I was.

“Dec’s wife Ali said she could really feel my pain when she watched it.

“This is the most real travelogue you’re likely to see. It’s exposing because it’s the real me, not me as a host, and I’ve never done that before.

“So for the audiences that normally watch my shows, it’s going to be a bit of a curveball.”

Since returning home, Stephen says he feels more relaxed and less anxious. He is also willing to try for further adventures and is considering more travel.

He adds: “I’ve never been so nervous about doing a show but about a week later I realised I was feeling different about everything, and I’m so pleased I did it.”

  • Stephen Mulhern: Accidental Tourist is on ITV1 and ITVX from today.
Stephen was sent to South Korea on behalf of pals Ant and DecCredit: itv

GO: South Korea

GETTING THERE: Virgin Atlantic launches its new service from Heathrow to Seoul in South Korea in May next year. Fares start from £950 return. See virginatlantic.com.

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‘Must watch’ period drama dubbed ‘Gossip Girl meets Downton Abbey’ now on Netflix

The ITV period drama boasts an impressive 87% rating on Rotten Tomatoes

A period drama boasting a recognisable face from Outlander has landed on Netflix, with viewers insisting it’s a must watch.

Victoria originally premiered on ITV in 2016 and spanned three series before concluding in 2019. Crafted by bestselling author and screenwriter Daisy Goodwin, the show stars former Doctor Who actress Jenna Coleman in the title role of Queen Victoria.

Coleman, who audiences will recall as Clara Oswald from the time-travelling series, appears alongside fellow Doctor Who alum Tommy Knight, plus Tom Hughes (About Time), Adrian Schiller (Tolkien), and Jordan Waller (The Gilded Age).

The series follows the 19th-century monarch’s rule, spanning from her ascension to the British throne aged merely 18 through to her union with Prince Albert (portrayed by Hughes).

The ensemble also includes Outlander star Nell Hudson, known for playing Laoghaire MacKenzie, who takes on the part of Queen Victoria’s lady’s maid, Nancy Skerrett, reports the Daily Record.

Hudson was utterly charmed by her fellow performers and sang their praises enthusiastically. In a chat with Town and Country, she revealed: “I made such good friends on Victoria, and luckily I’ve forced them all to stay friends with me, and I make them all hang out with me a couple of times a month. [laughs]”.

“I really couldn’t have been around a better bunch of people. It was such a privilege, going to set everyday and hanging out with a bunch of brilliant people, who were also so talented.”

It seems the cast’s behind-the-scenes camaraderie translated brilliantly on screen, as audiences found themselves utterly captivated.

One fan took to IMDb, sharing their emotional journey: “This has been the most amazing series since Downton Abbey I have watched. I laughed, I cried, I got angry. I felt every emotion humanly possible through watching it.

“My mother and I binge watched it together and couldn’t believe how much it draws you in from beginning to end.”

Someone else raved: “The settings, costumes, and general production values were first rate, the show felt incredibly plush and lavish, I shudder to think of the budget for this series. Totally engaging, this was first rate viewing 9/10.”

A third fan added: “If you love period drama and English history, you will be enthralled by Victoria. I wish there were more shows like this on television. A definite must for fans of this genre.”

Victoria, with its impressive 87% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, continues to garner praise. Another fan noted: “This production seems to strive for a cross between Gossip Girl and Downton Abbey, and is thus an amusing trifle.”

Victoria is streaming now on Netflix and ITVX

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Reason Alex Scott missed I’m A Celeb reunion after hitting out at ITV chiefs

The I’m a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! Coming Out reunion will air on Saturday night and Alex Scott is not expected to be on the show

Alex Scott is expected to miss the official I’m a Celebrity Coming Out reunion due to her girlfriend’s family emergency. This news comes after the ex-Lioness avoided the final episode of the show and called out ITV chiefs for not showing her true personality.

Scott was the first person eliminated from the jungle and immediately headed back to the UK. The former Arsenal star reunited with popstar beau Jess Glynne under difficult circumstances, after her mum suffered a major stroke and needed brain surgery.

Sharing on social media after fans noticed her missing from the famous bridge walk, Glynne said: “Over the last few weeks, my mum suffered a major stroke and needed urgent brain surgery. It’s been a really life-altering time for my family, and I’ve had to stay close to home.

“Alex would always want me to be where I’m needed most. I can’t wait to have her back by my side.”

Scott was initially grateful for the I’m a Celeb experience, as she said: “It’s been such an incredible experience. I didn’t think that… mentally it is so tough, and I did struggle at times, missing home and everything.

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“But I’m so glad I got to do this series with such a great bunch of campmates. We really connected, and I never expected that coming into the jungle, to make the bonds that we all did.”

However, she is yet to reunite with any of her campmates after the show and also called out the broadcaster for not showing her true self. During an appearance on Lorraine, Scott said: “It’s me actually being out and learning what’s been aired and what’s been shown.

“I had so much fun, and that bit wasn’t shown. I had so much fun. I was called the Games Master in there, the stuff that I was doing with everyone.

“It’s only an hour show so only so much can go into the edit but when I reflect, I wish more of the fun stuff, people had seen that side of me. I wanted them to see the more fun Alex Scott that they didn’t see.”

She added: “Ginge and Aitch have had all the airtime and everyone has seen them, but my special bond with Shona, I don’t think the public have seen the real journey she’s been, she’s spoken so much about her anxiety and her fun side but I don’t think anyone has seen it.”

After missing the final episode and wrap party, Scott is likely not to appear on Saturday’s reunion show. Speaking to the Daily Mail, she added: “It’s been a hard couple of months, but Jess was like I want you to go on the show and do it for my mum.

“It’s been tough because I want to be here for the wrap party and I have to get home straight away. She’s my Jessica, and I’m going home to be her rock. My campmates knew what I was going through and I just want to thank everyone at ITV and my camp mates because they’ve all shown me so much support.”

The I’m a Celebrity Coming Out show will air on ITV1 and ITVX on Saturday, December 13 at 9:05pm.

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Olivia Attwood reveals she was cruelly surgery shamed by female presenter in ‘one of the worst experiences ever’

OLIVIA Attwood has revealed she was cruelly shamed for the cosmetic procedures she has undergone by a presenter.

The former Love Island star, 34, described it as “one of the worst experiences” she has ever had.

Olivia Attwood has revealed she was cruelly shamed over her cosmetic surgeries by a female presenterCredit: youtube/@thisisoliviashouse
Olivia has been open about the various procedures she has had doneCredit: Getty
She even fronted an ITV documentary about surgery, dubbed The Price Of PerfectionCredit: Refer to source

Olivia has been open about her aesthetic preferences; often talking to her fans about which surgical enhancements she has undergone and even making a documentary about cosmetic surgery.

But the star says that she was put in an uncomfortable position during an interview, where the presenter told her she looked older due to having procedures.

Talking on her new podcast, Olivia’s House, the star said: “I had an experience with a female host and one of the worst experiences that I’ve probably had in an interview because I felt like she didn’t want me there…

“I was meant to be promoting the documentary and everything I’d learned about the industry and she very much wanted to make it about me and what I looked like.”

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Olivia continued: “She said in her second question, she said, ‘So you, what have you had done?’ And I was a bit like, whoa… I’m talking about the cosmetic industry as a whole.”

“She goes, ‘I don’t know what you were trying to achieve, but you look a lot older ‘cause of what you’ve done to yourself’.”

“It was really one of the worst experiences that I’ve probably had in an interview because I felt like… I felt like she didn’t want me there.”

“When I left that studio… I remember for 20 minutes I just sat in silence and I was like, ‘What? What just actually happened?’.”

While Olivia hasn’t named the presenter, she added that the situation felt “wrong”.

“It just felt just very like tonally wrong for a show that is meant to be about a safe space for women and uplifting women… it was just a really horrible experience and it stayed with me for a little while,” the star concluded.

Speaking on the first episode of the new podcast, Olivia candidly opened up about several topics, including her marriage to Bradley Dack.

She and the footballer have been married since 2023, but struggled this summer when their relationship hit a rocky patch.

At the time, Olivia didn’t acknowledge what was going on between them, but was pictured letting loose during a trip to Ibiza, where she cosied up to pal Pete Wicks.

Addressing the situation on her new show, the star admitted that she and Bradley have had a tough year – with issues from both sides.

And teasing that there is more to come, she told fans that Bradley would tell his side of the story “in his own words” when he comes onto the podcast.

Olivia didn’t name the presenter who shamed her, but said it made her feel “uncomfortable”Credit: youtube/@thisisoliviashouse
Talking on her podcast, Olivia also detailed her relationship with Bradley DackCredit: Getty

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