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Inside celebrity siblings biggest fall outs from Brooklyn Beckham and Romeo to the Gallagher brothers’ bitter feud

THERE have been some massive fall outs among famous siblings.

From Brooklyn and Romeo Beckham spat to the Gallagher brothers’ bitter feud, there are several famous faces who are at war, or have been in the past, with their family,

And British stars aren’t the only ones, because there are several high-profile Hollywood stars who have been at war with their loved ones.

From Julia Roberts to Leonardo DiCaprio – The Sun explores some of the biggest sibling feuds.

Brooklyn and Romeo Beckham

David Beckham with his three sons, Romeo, Brooklyn, and Cruz.

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The Beckham family is currently embroiled in a feudCredit: Instagram
Romeo Beckham and Kim Turnbull holding hands at Paris Fashion Week.

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Romeo is dating his brother’s exCredit: Getty

Brooklyn Beckham and his wife Nicola Peltz were notable absentees from his dad David Beckham‘s recent birthday bash.

Brooklyn’s siblings Romeo, Cruz and Harper all turned out to party with their dad, mum, and famous names like Tom Cruise and Guy Ritchie, while the eldest Beckham child was nowhere to be seen.

And since the snub, a rift between Brooklyn and his younger brother Romeo has been uncovered.

Romeo’s girlfriend is Kim Turnbull, who previously dated Brooklyn.

Romeo and his girlfriend Kim, who Brooklyn once dated, have kept things low-key since going public in November.

The Sun understands Nicola and Brooklyn had intended to be at David’s birthday bash but cancelled at short notice due to Kim being in attendance.

Brooklyn felt uncomfortable that his ex would be in attendance.

But the blame is being levelled at Nicola, which has upset Brooklyn, according to a source.

Kim Turnbull puts on brave face as she returns to work while Romeo jets to Paris with his mates amid family feud

They said: “She has never told him what to do and has been nothing but supportive — she’s a loyal wife.”

Brooklyn and Nicola also missed an intimate evening last Wednesday at the family’s £10million Cotswolds mansion.

The dinner was attended by VictoriaRomeoCruz, and his girlfriend Jackie.

Kim was absent, as were Brooklyn and Nicola.

Liam and Noel Gallagher

Black and white photo of Liam and Noel Gallagher.

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Liam and Noel fell out when they were youngerCredit: PA
Liam and Noel Gallagher at a Tommy Hilfiger store opening.

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The two brothers recently made up and will head on tour later this yearCredit: Getty

The two Manchester-born stars became famous together when they were in the band Oasis.

Clashing personalities saw Noel briefly quit the band after Liam threw a tambourine at him during a performance.

Later, Noel hit Liam on the head with a cricket bat when Liam annoyed him while he was working.

Liam’s last-minute pull-out and heckling from the audience during their MTV Unplugged performance in 1996 added to the feud. 

The last straw was when a backstage argument in Paris in 2009, reportedly over Liam’s clothing firm, Pretty Green, led to Noel’s decision to leave the band. 

But last month, Liam and Noel performed together for the first time in 16 years as they took to the stage of a members’ club in north London.

And now, the pair are preparing for the Oasis reunion tour which will take place later this year.

Leonardo DiCaprio and his step-brother Adam Farrar

Black and white photo of Leonardo DiCaprio and his stepbrother posing on steps outside their home.

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Leonardo DiCaprio and his step-brother Adam Ferrar in 1978Credit: Getty
Leonardo DiCaprio at the premiere of HBO's "Ice on Fire."

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Leonardo and Adam are not close anymoreCredit: Getty
Portrait of Adam Ferrar.

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In the 00s and 10s, Adam accused Leo of putting fame before his family.Credit: Getty

Although Leo and his step-brother Adam were close as kids, as they grew up, they grew apart.

In the 00s and 10s, Adam accused Leo of putting fame before his family.

In 2016, Adam spoke out about his relationship with Leo.

“We were once so close. I loved him and I still do,” he told MailOnline.

He added: “But we’ve not spoken in a couple of years. The last time I saw Leo was at his birthday party a couple of years ago.

“I’d been invited by another friend. Leo was pleased to see me and gave me a hug.

“But when I try to call him, my messages go unanswered. He has a whole team around him now and it’s impossible to penetrate that wall of hangers-on.”

He also told the paper: “Leo wants to save the world but he seems more concerned about the environment and climate change than he does about his own brother. It hurts.”

While Leo got famous, Adam developed a marijuana and cocaine habit, as well as a serious heroin addiction, with this coming to a head in 2008.

“I was arrested five or six times for petty theft, shoplifting from supermarkets, trying to support an opiate addiction of half a gram to a gram a day,” Adam told the outlet.

“Leo and I never had an argument. But he started surrounding himself with people that didn’t want me around. He’s the biggest star in the world and there’s me, messed up on drugs. I was slowly shut out of his world.

“Finally I got tired of going in and out of jail. I’ve been off heroin since 2013,” he said.

Meghan Markle and her half-sister Samantha Markle

Meghan Markle smiling in a kitchen.

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Meghan Markle says she grew up as an only childCredit: JAKE ROSENBERG/NETFLIX
Samantha Markle in a Channel 5 documentary.

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She has a half sister – Samantha MarkleCredit: PA:Press Association

Megan and her half sister Samantha Markle have been embroiled in a feud that has been long-running for many years.

According to Samantha, she and Meghan were close when they were growing up, although this is not backed by the Duchess.

The pair are 17 years apart and did not grow up at the same time.

In 2018, Vanity Fair reported that Doria Ragland and Thomas Markle “moved in together a couple of years before Meghan was born, along with Samantha and Thomas junior, who had relocated to L.A. after living with their mum.”

In Meghan’s chat with Oprah in 2021, she declared: “I grew up as an only child, which everyone who grew up around me knows, and I wished I had siblings.”

Samantha is estranged from Meghan, and the pair have not spoken for more than a decade, since her “early twenties”, it has been claimed.

Due to their estrangement, Samantha was not invited to Meghan’s wedding to Prince Harry in 2018. Samantha said at the time: “Out of respect and humanitarianism, the Markles should be invited if 2,000 complete strangers are. Our uncle, brother, me, best friend of 30 years, nephews. At issue is not a matter of closeness. Family is family.”

Nick and Aaron Carter

Nick Carter and Aaron Carter at Howie Dorough's birthday party.

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Nick Carter and Aaron Carter didn’t always get alongCredit: Getty – Contributor

Nick and Aaron Carter grew apart over the years.

The pair’s bond weakened due to childhood trauma, addiction, and family drama.

In 2019, Nick filed a restraining order against Aaron, saying he had made violent threats.

Aaron denied this also accusing Nick of abuse.

On November 5, 2022, Aaron died at his home in California at the age of 34.

His body was found in his bathtub by a housekeeper.

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner-Coroner later ruled that Carter’s death was accidental: drowning after inhaling difluoroethane and taking alprazolam (Xanax).

He was cremated, and his ashes were left in the care of his twin sister Angel.

Julia Roberts and her half-sister Nancy Motes

Julia Roberts at the Cannes Film Festival.

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Julia Roberts had a half sisterCredit: Getty – Contributor

Julia Roberts and her half-sister Nancy Motes had a “tortured” bond before she died by suicide.

In 2014, Nancy, who was 37, was found in a bathtub filled with water at a friend’s home in Los Angeles, where she had been dog-sitting.

LA County Coroner spokesman John Kades said prescription drugs had been found at the residence.

She wrote a suicide note blaming Julia for bullying her most of her adult life.

In the three-page note, she said: “My so-called siblings get nothing except the memory that they are the ones that drove me into the deepest depression I’ve been in.”

Louis Tomlinson and his half-sister Georgia

The One Direction star’s biological dad left shortly after he was born and became estranged from him.

His father later had a daughter called Georgia who became a huge One Direction fan when she was 14.

She and Louis’ biological dad, Troy, then saw Louis in a One Direction concert when the band were at the height of fame.

The siblings failed to reconnect.

Louis Tomlinson at an event.

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Louis shot to fame in boyband One DirectionCredit: Getty

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From protein boost to younger looking skin – we test three waters with health benefits

WE all know keeping hydrated is even more important when the sun is shining.

Getting enough liquid in your body means fewer headaches, more energy, lubricated joints, organ function and much, much more.

Collage of three different types of bottled and canned water.

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We test three health waters

To get your two litres of water a day you just need to turn on the tap.

But there are now waters with health benefits.

Today I’ve put some to the test to see if they are worth the cost . . .

Alkaline water

One-liter bottle of ACTIPH alkaline ionized water.

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Actiph Water undergoes a unique process of purificationCredit: Supplied

ACTIPH Water from Shropshire undergoes a unique process of purification before having electrolytes magnesium sulphate, sodium bicarbonate and potassium bicarbonate added to it.

You are left with an alkaline water with a PH of 9+ compared to your average water, which is about 7.

Some studies suggest higher PH might help with hydration, acid reflux and bone health.

This water has a smooth, clean taste.

My favourite of the three.

I loved the 600ml bottle size, which is great to carry about.

£1.40 for 600ml, Tesco.

Is Bathroom Tap Water Safe to Drink?

Protein water

Warrior Protein Water bottle, tropical flavor.

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Warrior Protein Water contains 10g of proteinCredit: Supplied

IN each 500ml bottle of Warrior Protein Water there is 10g of protein as well as essential vitamins, with zero sugar and only 48 calories.

It comes in two flavours, tropical and berry, and is a clever way to boost your protein intake if you don’t want to eat any actual food – plus you are obviously hydrating at the same time.

But this stuff is sweet. I tried the tropical flavour, which reminded me of Lilt.

Although it doesn’t contain sugar, it does contain plenty of sweetener.

So unless you’ve got a sweet tooth, this is not for you.

I thought the lid was great, unlike some other bottles where they can flick open.

I had this one in my sports bag and it didn’t spill.

From £1.67 for a 500ml bottle, Spar stores or teamwarrior.com.

Collagen water

Tide Collagen Beauty Water, Natural Raspberry flavor.

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Tide uses a premium collagen formula in their sparkling raspberry waterCredit: Supplied

TIDE has just launched a sparkling raspberry collagen water that can help support glowing skin, strong hair and healthier nails.

It is a premium collagen formula with 3.5g of high-quality, hydrolysed collagen peptides sourced from wild-caught North Atlantic and Pacific Ocean fish.

When you drink marine collagen, studies have shown it can hydrate and firm skin, reduce wrinkles, improve skin elasticity and enhance the overall structure and appearance of skin.

There are zero artificial sweeteners or additives but this one is very sweet thanks to the addition of fructose, a natural sugar that is found in fruit, vegetables and honey.

It comes in at just 27 calories per 250ml can.

If you’re drinking it for the collagen benefits I would recommend having two.

A clever idea for skin, but only if you have a sweet tooth.

From £27 for 12 cans or £2.25 each, wearetide.com.

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My boyfriend wants to film himself having sex with my best mate & for me to watch it – our non-monogamy has gone too far

Illustration of "Dear Deidre After Dark" text with hands pulling back a curtain.

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DEAR DEIDRE: OPENING up our relationship has been thrilling and better than I expected, until my boyfriend’s latest suggestion – that he sleeps with my childhood best friend.

Non-monogamy made our sex life far more exciting as we shared our adventures with each other. I’ve had three different partners, he’s had two and we always talk about our experiences after. It’s such a thrill.

But now he’s been making a move on a friend of mine and it feels too close to home. And instead of just talking about their adventures after, he wants to record it and ‘enjoy the footage together’.

His request feels like he’s overstepping the mark. I almost thought we didn’t need to say it but surely we shouldn’t be bringing in people we know already – let alone people we are close to.

And it’s one thing talking about our escapades and another thing being confronted with the evidence.

My boyfriend and I met three years ago in London, after I moved from the south coast. I’m 27 and he’s 28.

Dear Deidre After Dark- Understanding open relationships

We’ve been living together for just over two years and everything has been great.

It was my suggestion to try polyamory. Although at first he was cautious, after we both researched how to open up your relationship, he agreed to give it a go.

We’ve been non-monagamous for over a year now and make sure that we keep checking in with each other. 

Our rules are simple, that we tell each other who we are seeing, and that we let the other person know our relationship status.

People warned me it would wreck our relationship but I’d say it’s done the opposite – up until now anyway. Our sex life is so much better and we talk about our sexual exploits with others which is so erotic.

I look at friends in long term relationships and can see they are getting bored staying in together night after night.

There is always so much going on in London, and I’ve loved exploring all the different areas when I’ve been on different dates.

I’ve seen three different guys regularly and my boyfriend has two regular women he hooks up with.

I’ve never felt a twinge of jealousy before, but I could tell when he came back to my home town with me at Christmas he’d taken a shine to my friend.

Not long after we returned he told me he’s started messaging her and was going to ask her out.

He seemed surprised when I got upset. 

He’d be making a big effort to see her as he’d have to travel over an hour and a half to get there. 

Am I being over sensitive or does he want to go too far?

The Different Types of Non-monogamy

There are many types of non-monogamous relationships. All of them allow sex with more than one person but the expectations for things like emotions, priority and lifestyles are very different.

Open Relationship/Monogamish

A committed couple that allows each other to have sex with other people. 

Polyamory 

Multiple emotional and sexual relationships at the same time, with the consent of everyone involved. 

Hierarchical polyamory

A “primary” couple prioritise each other, but each has multiple romantic, sexual relationships too. 

Non-Hierarchical Polyamory

Individuals engage in multiple romantic, sexual relationships without assigning priority. 

Polyfidelity (also known as Triads, Couples or Quads)

Three or more people involved in an exclusive relationship.

Solo Poly

Having multiple intimate relationships with people while otherwise living a single lifestyle. 

Swinging

A couple who have sex with other people, usually simultaneously. 

Casual sex, casual dating, friends with benefits 

Dating or having sex with multiple people, while remaining uncommitted to anyone.

Relationship Anarchy

Doing away with some or all of the traditional ‘rules’ applied to romantic relationships.

Polygamy 

Polygamy is being married to more than one spouse. Polygamy isn’t legal in the UK.

DEIDRE SAYS: You’ve researched how to make non-monogamy work so will know the first rule is that you both have to be 100% happy with the arrangement.

The moment one of you feels unhappy or even unsure is the time to pause and reevaluate.

Talk to your boyfriend about your reservations. He won’t appreciate your position unless you explain.

This potential liaison isn’t solely about your boyfriend and his extra partner, it’s also about a pre-existing relationship between you and your childhood friend.

While you are totally at ease with your open relationship in London, bringing it closer to home, where you grew up and your family is, understandably feels different.

And as you say, your boyfriend would have to make a big effort to meet your friend, which could mean he’s getting emotionally involved. 

Opening up your relationship for sexual relationships is one thing, but multiple romantic relationships can be much harder to navigate.

Again you both need to be clear about what you want from non-monogamy – is this about multiple sexual partners, or are extra emotional relationships okay?

My support pack Non-Monogamy explains more.

Dear Deidre’s Non-Monogamy Files

Deidre’s mailbag is bursting with open relationship problems. One reader was cut off by her best friend after finding out about her polyamorous relationship; another from a different subscriber who struggled with the reality of telling his family about his throuple, while one man was asked to open his relationship to hide his wife’s true sexuality.

Get in touch with the Dear Deidre team

Every problem gets a personal reply from one of our trained counsellors.

Sally Land is the Dear Deidre Agony Aunt. She achieved a distinction in the Certificate in Humanistic Integrative Counselling, has specialised in relationships and parenting. She has over 20 years of writing and editing women’s issues and general features.

Passionate about helping people find a way through their challenges, Sally is also a trustee for the charity Family Lives. Her team helps up to 90 people every week. 

Sally took over as The Sun’s Agony Aunt when Deidre Sanders retired from the The Dear Deidre column four years ago.

The Dear Deidre Team Of Therapists Also Includes:

Kate Taylor: a sex and dating writer who is also training to be a counsellor. Kate is an advisor for dating website OurTime and is the author of five self-help books.

Jane Allton: a stalwart of the Dear Deidre for over 20 years. Jane is a trained therapist, who specialises in family issues. She has completed the Basic Counselling Skills Level 1, 2, and 3. She also achieved the Counselling and Psychotherapy (CPCAB) Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Studies.

Catherine Thomas: with over two decades worth of experience Catherine has also trained as a therapist, with the same credentials as Jane. She specialises in consumer and relationship issues.

Fill out and submit our easy-to-use and confidential form and the Dear Deidre team will get back to you.

You can also send a private message on the DearDeidreOfficial Facebook page or email us at:

[email protected]

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New species of dog-sized killer dinosaur that roamed Earth 220m years ago discovered – but its name isn’t too catchy

A NEW dog-sized dinosaur species that roamed the Earth 220 million years ago has been discovered.

The Maleriraptor kuttyi is thought to be one of the earliest killer dinosaurs in history.

Illustration of four dinosaurs in a prehistoric landscape.

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The Maleriraptor kuttyi is thought to be one of the earliest killer dinosaursCredit: Márcio L. Castro.
Illustration of Maleriraptor kuttyi, a dog-sized dinosaur.

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The now-extinct dinosaur is believed to have lived some 220 million years ago – during the Triassic period.

The small but mighty beast could grow to a height of 3.2 feet and a length of 6.5 feet – about the size of a large-breed dog such as a Great Dane.

And the creature was one of the earliest known carnivorous dinosaurs, along with the rest of the Herrerasauria family.

Dr. Martín Ezcurra from the Argentina’s Natural Science museum said: “Herrerasaurs represent the oldest radiation of predatory dinosaurs.”

The fossilised dinosaur bones were discovered more than in Telangana, India forty years ago.

But only now have scientists identified exactly what species these bones belonged to.

Herrerasauria fossils were previously found in South and North America.

But the new bombshell discovery has proved that the creatures roamed far more of the Earth than previously thought.

And the dinosaurs in India are believed to have outlived those elsewhere.

Scientists believe this might be because India had a similar climate to South America during the Triassic period.

The unique dinosaur attraction in a famous London park that is free to visit

This comes after a giant horned dinosaur species was unearthed in Egypt.

The predatory dinosaur species, named Tameryraptor markgrafi, was originally discovered in 1914 by Ernst Stromer von Reichenbach who died in 1952.

The 95million-year-old skeleton was excavated in the Bahariya Oasis in Egypt before it was stored in the Bavarian State Collection for Paleontology and Geology in Munich, Germany.

But the remains were destroyed along with other Egyptian discoveries when Munich was bombed in World War Two.

Tragically the only remnants of the dinosaur discovery were Dr Stromer’s notes, illustrations of the bones and black and white photographs of the skeletons.

But Dr Stromer’s records have now been reanalysed in a new study.

Maximilian Kellermann, the study’s first author said: “What we saw in the historical images surprised us all.

“The Egyptian dinosaur fossil depicted there differs significantly from more recent Carcharodontosaurus found in Morocco.”

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Champions League, you’re having a laugh? Wild Uefa changes almost make it harder for Premier League sides not to qualify

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE? You’re having a laugh.

We’ve all heard it. The derisory chant from opposition fans when one of the so-called ‘big guns’ is having an off day.

UEFA Champions League trophy.

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Six English teams will qualify for next season’s Champions LeagueCredit: Getty
Ange Postecoglou and Ruben Amorim embracing after a Premier League match.

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Either Tottenham or Man Utd will earn Champions League qualification this season despite finishing 17th or 16th in the Premier LeagueCredit: Getty

For example, Southampton supporters had every right to aim it at the multi-billionaires of Manchester City last weekend, when they couldn’t find a way past the worst team in the Premier League.

Only now what was once a mildly amusing terrace jibe sums up perfectly what the leading club competition in the world has become. A joke.

Next season there will be a record SIX English teams in the Champions League.

Almost one third of the entire Premier League will be waved straight into the bizarre league phase by Uefa’s welcoming doormen at an empty small town disco on a wet Tuesday night.

Anyone can come in. From Liverpool who finished top, right down to hapless Tottenham or abject Manchester United hovering above the relegation zone.

It is time to officially ban the phrase ‘elite competition’ whenever the Champions League is mentioned on TV and radio or written in print.

There was a time when you had to win your domestic league to progress into the highest level of European football the following season.

Simple as that.

CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS

Chelsea soccer players looking dejected after a match.

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Chelsea are set to qualify for the Champions League despite being 20 points adrift of LiverpoolCredit: Getty

We are now at a point where English Premier League teams have to work harder to stay out of the modern Champions League than to get in.

Spurs and Man United, regular participants in the past, have done spectacularly well trying to cock up their seasons. Yet

by virtue of winning the Europa League one of them will be alongside Liverpool, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich, the already declared winners of their respective leagues.

‘I’d dive head first through a brick wall for him’ – Ange Postecoglou’s rallying speech reduces Tottenham fans to tears

Erratic Chelsea, under the guidance of boss Enzo Maresca, have lost to Ipswich, Fulham and Brighton.

From winning five Premier League games in a row, they went winless in the next five and couldn’t string a pass together.

They lag 20 POINTS behind the bona fide champions of England from Anfield and are fifth.

Don’t bet against them being in next season’s Champions League.

The constant tinkering and chiselling away at a once simple game has led to Uefa getting its knickers in a right old twist.

Fifth in this year’s Premier League grants a free pass into the treasure trove of the Champions League thanks to the coefficients which measure success where once it was about winning.

A whole page is devoted to thrill-a-minute ‘coefficients’ on the governing body’s website to explain how a system that would baffle Stephen Hawking’s much cleverer cousin actually works: “Uefa calculates the coefficient of each club each season based on the clubs’ results in the  Uefa Champions League, Uefa Europa League and Uefa Conference League.

“The season coefficients from the five most recent seasons are used to rank the clubs for seeding purposes (sporting club coefficient).

“In addition, the season coefficients from the ten most recent seasons are used to calculate revenue club coefficients for revenue distribution purposes only.”

And that’s just the overview.

There’s a gag in there somewhere about how many coefficients does it take to ruin a game of football? Only I can’t see a funny punch line.

There was a time back when the world was black and white in the 1950s when two imaginative French journalists took inspiration from South America and came up with the idea of the best clubs from each country competing for a trophy on our continent.

Ironically, it wasn’t called the Champions League back then. It was the plain old European Cup. A cup fought over by teams in Europe. Simple eh?

Liverpool’s first steps into the European Cup came in 1964, our sole representatives having won the league the previous season under Bill Shankly.

Next season they share the honour with five other English teams and some of them are pretty ordinary.

If Spurs win the Europa League and follow it up by winning the Champions League next year, the champions of Europe will come from a team currently 17th in England’s top division.

You can argue it won’t happen. Yet somehow a side which has lost more league games than it has won this season is in a European final next week.

That’s cup football for you and it’s a wonderful lottery. Qualification for the Champions League is not. It’s a boring carve up.

UEFA Champions League trophy.

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The top five teams in the Premier League will qualify for the Champions League due to European coefficientsCredit: AFP

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Rise of dangerous ‘Barbie waist’ surgery as women spend thousands having ribs REMOVED to look like red carpet celebs

IT’S an invasive, extremely high-risk procedure that could leave patients with a lung puncture, nerve damage and chronic pain.

But despite the eye-watering risks, more women than ever are opting for ‘Barbie rib’ surgery – that’s having one or more ribs taken out – to achieve a tiny waist.

Woman with a 21-inch waist wearing a waist trainer.

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Essex mum Kerry Miles said she planned to pay £15k for her rib removal surgeryCredit: Caters News Agency
Woman's waist measured at 21 inches with tape measure.

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Kerry’s waist shrank to a shockingly small 21 inchesCredit: Caters News Agency
Six rib bones in a plastic bag.

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Influencer Emily James shared a stomach-churning pic of the ribs she had removedCredit: Caters
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - MAY 06: Kim Kardashian attends The 2024 Met Gala Celebrating "Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion" at The Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 06, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Aliah Anderson/Getty Images)

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Kim Kardashian sparked rib removal rumours after the 2024 Met Gala – something she has deniedCredit: GETTY

In the 1950s, stars of the silver screen such as Marilyn Monroe wowed with their tiny hourglass figures.

But in 2025, women are going one step further by opting for the latest surgery trend.

When Kim Kardashian graced the Met Gala’s red carpet last March wearing a tightly cinched silver corset, it sparked rumours that the A-lister may have gone under the knife.

While getting ready for the event, she told Vogue: “I’ll feel so snatched I won’t even be able to communicate to you how snatched I feel.”

She fiercely denied rumours of rib removal, later saying: “I don’t even know if that’s possible.”

Well, the shocking surgery IS possible, with many women now going under the knife to achieve the same look as their favourite red carpet celebs.

The surgery, performed under general anaesthesia, involves the surgeon detaching the rib bone and removing it or partially removing to give the appearance of a slimmer waistline.

The ribs can also be repositioned, and a rib brace is then worn to compress the midsection.

It’s an incredibly dangerous procedure that could cause the lungs to collapse or damage other internal organs, with few experienced surgeons willing to carry out the op.

Hazim Sadideen, Consultant Plastic Surgeon at the Cadogan Clinic, told The Sun: “There’s been a lot of noise around the ‘Barbie rib’ procedure, and I think it’s important to separate fact from fiction.

“First off, rib modification and rib removal are very different things.

“True rib removal, where one or more of the floating ribs are completely taken out, is an invasive and high-risk procedure. I would never recommend it purely for cosmetic reasons.

“The risks include lung puncture, nerve damage and chronic pain. There are long-term asymmetry risks too.”

I had my ribs removed to get a Barbie waist

Other celebs have also been rumoured to have had the surgery, including Cher and singer Prince, while other A-listers have donned corsets and tight dresses on the red carpet to achieve a cinched look – a body ideal that has seeped onto social media.

Under the knife

Despite the controversy, Essex Mum Kerry Miles, 41, still planned to spend £15,000 on the procedure after using a corset to shrink her waist to just 21 inches.

Belgian performer Jada Sparks spent over £14,000 having ribs removed. The former nurse said: “I’ve done it for the cosmetic reason, but also the thrill of it to be honest.

“I went down about 2.5 inches from the start until now.

“I think I have reached my ultimate result now. In the beginning, it felt weird, but your body is an odd thing, it can adapt really quick.

“So, I like the feeling right now of having something ‘missing’.”

Kim Kardashian shows off her very small waist as it becomes the buzz of the Met Gala 2024 in New York City. Pictured: Kim Kardashian Ref: SPL10825404 060524 NON-EXCLUSIVE Picture by: SplashNews.com Splash News and Pictures **USE CHILD PIXELATED IMAGES OR FOOTAGE IF YOUR TERRITORY REQUIRES IT** USA: 310-525-5808 UK: 020 8126 1009 eamteam@shutterstock.com World Rights,

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Kim K stunned fans with her corseted, minuscule waistCredit: GETTY
Woman with pink hair answering the question, "How much does it cost?"

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Emily James spent £13k having six ribs removed in a bid to achieve a Barbie-like waistCredit: Caters
Person's back with scars circled.

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Emily’s ribs were removed from her back, and she’s left with two small scarsCredit: INSTAGRAM
Woman with purple hair wearing a waist trainer and attempting to zip up her jeans.

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Emily shows off the results of her surgery on InstagramCredit: Instagram

Emily James, an influencer from Kansas City, Missouri, spent £13,000 having six of her ribs removed last year – and claims it is no different to a Brazilian Butt Lift.

Emily told The Sun she’d researched her procedure thoroughly and defended her decision. 

She says: “I absolutely think that it’s important to make informed, well-thought-out decisions before you get plastic surgery.

“People should not just be going into random like garages, getting oil pumped into their bodies for like a BBL or getting veneered by some girl that you found on Instagram.

“It’s important to make well-informed decisions, and if you’re going into it with the mindset knowing the risks and the benefits, then you absolutely should do what you want to do.

“But just keep in mind that it is plastic surgery, and there are dangers involved, and there are risks and complications that can arise from getting these kinds of surgeries.”

‘Barbie waist’

The iconic Barbie doll has impossible proportions – which in real life would be 39″ bust, 18″ waist and 33″ hips.

Her terrifyingly tiny waist measurement would in reality be smaller than that of the average three-year-old.

A Google search of “Barbie rib procedure” yields over 135,000 results.

But while Mr Sadideen believes filtered images don’t reveal the truth about invasive procedures, Emily, who had post-surgery complications with a catheter, was able to get the surgery without any psychological evaluation or counselling.

“There was nothing like that,” she says. “But it was a really hard process to find someone that I felt comfortable going to.

“There were lots that were certified to do the surgery, but I didn’t feel they were qualified. I wanted someone who really understood me.” 

Emily flew almost 800 miles for the surgery in Cleveland, Ohio.

But with the trend taking off on social media and celebrities in the US, Germany and UK reportedly having it done, increasing numbers of women are attending clinics asking for their ribs to be removed.

Megan Fox at the GQ Men of the Year Party.

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Megan Fox dons a corset dress that enhances her slim figure – she has admitted to having some plastic surgery but not a rib opCredit: Getty
Cardi B at the Met Gala in a green velvet suit.

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Cardi B attending the 2025 Met Gala, showcasing her slender waist – the star has always denied plastic surgery rumoursCredit: Getty
Georgia Steel at a birthday event.

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Towie star Abi Clarke is rumoured to have had rib surgeryCredit: Eroteme
Promotional portrait of American singer and actress Cher (born Cherilyn Sarkisian LaPiere) for the television variety show 'The Sonny and Cher Comedy Hour,' 1972. (Photo by CBS Photo Archive/Getty Images)

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Cher has always denied having her ribs removedCredit: GETTY

While Towie’s Abigail Clarke is also rumoured to have had the procedure, Emily says the invasive and risky surgery, which she’s still recovering from, was more painful than she imagined.

“I got there about 6.30 in the morning and honestly, I was really scared,” she says. “I knew my rib removal was going to be painful because I’d done a lot of research.

“I had my boobs done at the same time, but coming out of surgery, I was super swollen, and I couldn’t sit up or lay down by myself.

“I had to have someone help me stand up, lay down, pretty much do everything.

“It was a really intense surgery, and I had a lot of numbness and pain for a long time.”

‘Emotional toll’

While Emily has documented her journey online, Mr Sadideen says social media could be to blame for the increase in requests for these types of invasive procedures.

“What really worries me is how social media glamorises extreme body transformations without showing the full story – the recovery, the risks, or the emotional toll,” he says.

“The rise of these trends is often driven by filtered images and unattainable ideals, which can feed into body dysmorphia and lead people to believe something drastic is the only solution.”

While Emily had no psychological evaluation at all prior to the procedure which altered her skeleton, he believes the mental capacity of a patient should factor into every surgical evaluation.

Just because something is technically possible doesn’t mean it’s the right choice

Mr Hazim Sadideen

“Any patient considering a procedure like this should undergo a thorough psychological assessment to ensure they’re making this choice for the right reasons, not due to pressure or distorted self-image,” he says.

“As surgeons, we have a duty to protect our patients.

“Just because something is technically possible doesn’t mean it’s the right choice.”

Despite having the support of her loved ones, Emily is aware that she entered into the procedure without any long-term idea of how her rib removal might affect her body in the future.

“I knew going into surgery, the ribs I was having removed do serve some protection of my kidneys and my liver,” she says.

“I don’t think that I regret any of my surgeries, but who knows when I’m 60 if I’ll have complications from my rib removal.

“I’ve noticed already there has been one weird complication that whenever I get sick or cough, my muscles separate. So yeah, there might be complications later down the road.”

Mr Sadideen says there is a less invasive option that can be considered without needing to go to the dangerous extremes Emily has.

“There is a more conservative alternative sometimes referred to as rib reshaping or rib modification,” he says.

“In very carefully selected cases, surgeons may use a controlled mini-fracture technique to slightly bend a rib inward.

“It’s a method already used in nose reshaping – known as rhinoplasty – and orthopaedic surgery.

“But it must be done with the utmost precision, using detailed scans, ultrasound guidance during surgery, and specific tools to reduce risk and avoid complications.

“Even so, the data is still emerging, and we don’t yet have a full picture of long-term safety or outcomes.”

Illustration of eight people who have undergone extreme plastic surgery, with descriptions of their modifications.

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While Emily – who plans to make a crown out of the ribs she’s had removed – has received a barrage of online hate for her surgery choices, she says it doesn’t bother her.

“I’ve had a lot of people say that I worship the devil, or that I’m like, controlled by Satan because I am making a crown out of my rib bones, which is really silly,” she says.

While there are plenty of celebrities who are rumoured to have had the procedure done – from Cher to Prince to Kim Kardashian and Demi Moore, Mr Sadideen says society’s obsession with filters could be resulting in the dangerous trend growing in popularity.

“Extreme procedures like rib removal should be a last resort, not a trend,” he says.

“And we should all be asking: are we doing this to feel better, or just to look better on a screen?”

Barbie doll in a pink and yellow bikini.

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Barbie’s proportions in real life would be 39″ bust, 18″ waist and 33″ hipsCredit: Collects
Dr. Hazim Sadideen, Consultant Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgeon, sitting at his desk.

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Hazim Sadideen, Consultant Plastic Surgeon at the Cadogan Clinic says the surgery is dangerousCredit: drhazlondon.com

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‘I walked the UK coast for five years – this little-known beach felt like the Bahamas’

IF ONE person knows where you can find the best beaches in the UK, it’s Quintin Lake.

For his new book The Perimeter, Quintin travelled for five years around the entire coastline of mainland Britain which covered 6800 miles and he was armed with nothing but hiking gear and a camera.

Scottish beach with white sand and turquoise water.

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Quintin walked on and off for five years taking pictures of the UK coastline and found incredible beachesCredit: Quintin Lake
Shallow, clear water in a rocky cove.

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Some of the beaches look like they belong in other countries – like Achmelvich Bay in LochinverCredit: Quintin Lake

Photographer Quintin travelled through Wales, up to Scotland and across England, finding beautiful coastal spots and he took 1,300 pictures.

Along the way, Quintin saw all sorts, including beaches that you wouldn’t believe were in the UK – and one that looked like it was in the Caribbean, was actually in Scotland.

Quintin told Sun Travel: “Achmelvich Bay in Scotland literally looks like it belongs being in the Bahamas because the sand is white.

“The sea looks turquoise, which you’ll see in the book. The water is a beautiful greeny blue – it doesn’t look like it belongs in this country at all.

Read More on Scottish Beaches

“When I went, it was a sunny day and there were maybe six people there so it was heaven. I couldn’t believe it.

“All the northwestern and Sutherland beaches have white sand, and if you go off the beaten path you can easily find a hidden bay that you’ll have all to yourself.”

Quintin isn’t the only one to recognise Achmelvich Bay for its tropical beauty, in 2023, the beach was recognised as being one of the World’s Best Beaches.

It came in at number 45, and is the only UK beach to ever be placed in the top 50.

Scotland doesn’t just have beautiful beaches, it’s also known for its very striking landscape.

“Faraid Head in Scotland is beautiful too, especially with the dramatic cliffs that come down to the sea.”

UK beach named one of the top 100 in the world
Sand dunes overlooking a coastal cove in Scotland.

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Scottish beaches also have dramatic coastlines like on Faraid Head in DurnessCredit: Quintin Lake
Photographer with a large backpack and camera, standing by a river with a city skyline in the background.

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The journey took a total of five years and Quintin wild camped along the wayCredit: Quintin Lake

He continued: “Then on the Ardnamurchan Peninsula in Scotland there’s a single road where you’ll come to a volcano from thousands of years ago.

“The top has blown off and you wouldn’t even believe it’s in Britain, the beach is so remote and eagles fly overhead – it’s very dramatic.”

Quintin added: “I mean in northwest Scotland, it’s really easy to find a beach where there’s no one there for days on end.”

Applecross Beach in Scotland is a remote sandy stretch that visitors have sometimes referred to as being the ‘edge of the world’.

The area is known for its wild and untamed landscape, with rugged mountains, lochs, and beaches.

A recommendation from Quintin for any holidaymakers who want to avoid beach crowds this summer is Three Cliffs Bay in Wales.

The beach is on the Gower Peninsula and spans for 0.6 miles in low tide. In 2023, Three Cliffs Bay came ninth in Big Seven Travel‘s 50 Most Beautiful Places in the UK.

Quintin added: “It’s just beautiful, I mean, if you’re from Wales, it’s probably quite well-known but that beach was magical and it’s huge.

“It would be great for families because it’s not one of those places where everyone’s on top of each other all the time.”

Quintin’s book, The Perimeter is out now and available to buy here.

Man smiling for a selfie, wearing a backpack and camera, overlooking the ocean.

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Quintin has documented his journey in The PerimeterCredit: Quintin Lake

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Households can apply for cost of living cash worth £500 – check if you’re eligible

STRUGGLING households in parts of the UK could get up to £500 in cost of living help – but you’ll need to meet strict rules.

The cash boost is part of the Household Support Fund (HSF), a £421million pot, which helps low-income families with food, energy bills, and essentials.

British one-pound coins on banknotes.

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The cash boost is part of the Household Support Fund (HSF)

But it’s only available if you live in Worcestershire – that includes the districts of Malvern, Worcester, Wychavon, Bromsgrove, Redditch or Wyre Forest.

To check if you qualify, go to gov.uk/find-local-council – Worcestershire County Council must be listed.

You’ll also need to meet income and vulnerability rules.

Who is eligible?

To qualify, your gross annual income must be:

  • £24,570 or less (for a single adult with no children)
  • £31,000 or less (for all other households)

You must also have no savings, unless you’re of state pension age – in which case you can have up to £5,000.

And at least one person in your household must meet ONE of the following:

  • Be of state pension age
  • Have a long-term diagnosed health condition or be registered disabled
  • Have a child under four
  • Be in receipt of DWP benefits like Attendance Allowance, Carer’s Allowance, PIP or Disability Living Allowance
  • Be receiving support from services such as food banks, Citizens Advice, Age UK, mental health or housing support, or your GP’s social prescribing team

How much can I get?

The amount depends on your household:

  • Up to £500 for homes with children under 18 or full-time students under 21
  • Up to £300 for adult-only households aged 18–66
  • Up to £300 for pensioner households
Switch bank accounts for free perks

Payments can go straight to your energy provider, be credited via an online portal or come in the form of Post Office vouchers for prepayment meters.

You’ll need to supply:

  • A recent energy or water bill (dated within 3 months) showing your name, address and account number
  • Evidence of your vulnerability
  • Extra documents if applying for help with energy debts or heating repairs

What else is covered?

Help is also available for:

  • Repairing or replacing broken boilers
  • Installing first-time heating systems
  • Servicing and upgrading smart heating controls

You’ll need to complete a separate application if applying for these – but forms will be sent to you once your initial claim is made.

Where to send your evidence:

  • Email digital copies to: [email protected]
  • Post paper documents to:
    Act on Energy
    Unit 2, Lauriston Business Park
    Salford Priors
    Warwickshire WR11 8SN

Applications will be closed if evidence isn’t sent within 28 days – so act fast.

In other related benefit news, pension savers have been pocketing thousands in tax refunds after being overcharged — and now fresh HMRC changes could stop millions more being stung.

Over 15,000 people got an average refund of £2,881 between January and March this year after being overtaxed when they dipped into their pension pots.

In total, £44million was handed back in just three months, according to new figures — with hopes the amount overpaid will fall thanks to recent rule tweaks.

HMRC rolled out a new system this month, aimed at stopping retirees from being wrongly whacked with a sky-high emergency tax bill when making a withdrawal.

Other help you can claim

If you’re not eligible for the Household Support Fund, you might qualify for other forms of help to cover energy bills or food.

Support may vary depending on your local council – so even if you don’t live in Worcestershire, it’s worth checking what’s on offer in your area.

Several energy firms offer grants to households who are struggling to pay their energy bills worth up to £2,000.

This includes British Gas, Octopus Energy and EDF.

New parents might also be eligible for free food worth up to £442 a year to cover the cost of healthy food and milk via the Healthy Start scheme.

Or, you can get an emergency food parcel from a Trussell Trust food bank.

You can find your nearest via www.trussell.org.uk/emergency-food/find-a-foodbank.

To get a food parcel, you need a voucher from a community organisation like Citizens Advice or your GP. You can then exchange this voucher for a food parcel at the food bank.

It’s also worth checking if you’re eligible for benefits if you haven’t already – billions of pounds’ worth is going unclaimed, according to Policy in Practice.

There are three free calculators you can use to see what you might be entitled to:

  • Policy in Practice better off calculator
  • entitledto benefits calculator
  • Turn2us benefits calculator

Are you missing out on benefits?

YOU can use a benefits calculator to help check that you are not missing out on money you are entitled to

Charity Turn2Us’ benefits calculator works out what you could get.

Entitledto’s free calculator determines whether you qualify for various benefits, tax credit and Universal Credit.

MoneySavingExpert.com and charity StepChange both have benefits tools powered by Entitledto’s data.

You can use Policy in Practice’s calculator to determine which benefits you could receive and how much cash you’ll have left over each month after paying for housing costs.

Your exact entitlement will only be clear when you make a claim, but calculators can indicate what you might be eligible for.

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Dave Allen is the ex-supply teacher turned boxer who overcame gambling addiction to become heroic fans’ favourite

DAVE ALLEN has lived several lives, from supply school teacher to gambling addict and now, thankfully, a beloved boxing star.

Allen started as an amateur aged 16 and had just ten bouts before turning professional in 2012 – snubbing the chance to join the GB Squad.

Man sitting on a couch, being interviewed with a microphone.

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Dave Allen opened up on his gambling addiction, which he has bravely overcomeCredit: First Round TV

He was 20 when he made his debut but only three years later Allen had only fought seven times and was in need of cash.

The heavyweight made ends meet as a sparring partner – earning around £500 a week – but it was not enough.

So he got a job as a supply teacher – lying on his CV to get the gig – before returning to the ring in 2015.

But by then, Allen was gripped by a horrific gambling addiction which started after making a £1 bet on the horses with his dad when he was just eight.

And after being introduced to online betting, the boxer’s life began to spiral.

He bravely said on ex-middleweight champion Darren Barker’s podcast: “It just snowballed really.

“I used to go to the bookies and play on the machines there, they were great times.

“But the online stuff is where it got bad for me because it was so easy, it was numbers on the screen.

Graphic comparing the fighting records of Johnny Fisher and Dave Allen.

“Probably at the worst? It’s difficult to say really. I wasn’t gambling that much in my early 20s, but I was gambling everything that I had.

“As I got a bit older, I was gambling way more, tens of thousands of pounds. Maybe into hundreds of thousands overall.”

John Fisher opens up on his son’s brutal fight against Dave Allen after he needed brain scan

Allen – who has sparred Anthony Joshua, Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk – said winning the bets was the route of his addiction not the cash.

He explained: “I have no interest in the money at all.

“The kind of gambler I am, it’s not about the money for me. When the money runs out, that’s the only issue.

“I never wanted to withdraw any money, I just wanted to keep winning. To be honest, at that time it was like an escapism from real life.”

Allen revealed his routine consisted of going to bed at 6am and waking up by 2pm to catch the first race of the day.

Fortunately, Allen has overcome his addiction with the help of his sister and wife, who he shares a son and daughter with.

As I got a bit older, I was gambling way more, tens of thousands of pounds. Maybe into hundreds of thousands overall.

Dave Allen

He said: “Since I was 26, I’ve not been in control of my own money.

“So at 26, I said to my sister, ‘You’re going to have to look after my money, to be honest.’

“My sister set me up a bank account and for the last seven and a half years if I want any money at all, I have to text my sister and now my missus, I get a card and they send me money.

“Because, if I could still gamble now, I think I would. I’ve spent mad money on mad s***, I was spending ridiculous money and when I boxed Luis Ortiz, I did it for the money, really.

“I think I owed a few quid at the time of the Dillian Whyte fight, I think I lost about eight grand on the day of the fight, I didn’t clear too much more than that really.”

Allen has also become a trainer and manager to young fighters to also keep himself on track.

He said: “I need it as much as them, start training the kids seven or eight years ago and that’s my sustainability really.

‘He’ll get knocked out’

“It’s really kept me on the straight and narrow.”

Allen initially retired from boxing in 2020 aged 28 after a brutal knockout loss to 2008 Olympic bronze medallist David Price.

But he returned a year later and has fought eight times since, remaining a hugely popular figure amongst British fans.

Allen, 33, is coming off a controversial split-decision loss to Johnny Fisher, 26, in Saudi Arabia last December.

But the pair now rematch on Saturday at Fisher’s adopted home of the Copper Box Arena.

And Allen – who dropped Fisher in round five – warned: “If he fights me May 17th he’ll get knocked out because I’ll be sharper, a little bit fitter.

“If he boxes me it will be hard work, of course it is. But I don’t think at the Copper Box he’ll hold it together and box.

“He’ll get in a fight at some point. I’m not the biggest puncher but I hit too hard for him and I’m too strong for him. He’s tough, though.”

Johnny Fisher boxing Dave Allen.

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Johnny Fisher controversially beat Dave Allen on pointsCredit: Reuters
Johnny Fisher and Dave Allen at a press conference with promoter Eddie Hearn.

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They rematch at the Copper BoxCredit: PA

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I lived in a caravan for 8 years to afford my dream home – now everyone assumes I’m rich but I saved thousands on rent

TRYING to get onto the housing ladder is no mean feat, and many people have to make some sacrifices when it comes to it. 

From tightening up the budget, and reducing the spending on some of life’s luxuries, managing to find the money can take quite some time. 

Woman standing between two large black lanterns.

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Leonie has revealed how she managed to get her home and why people think she’s rich because of itCredit: tiktok.com/@building_ribbons

But one woman managed to bag her dream home by making some sacrifices. 

Leonie, who is known as ‘building_ribbons’ on TikTok, shared a video on her social media account explaining how she lived in a caravan for eight years to be able to afford her dream home. 

She went on to explain that people now assume that she is rich because of it, but instead she just managed to save thousands on rent. 

Speaking to her 122.7k TikTok followers, Leonie did a tour of her home which was in the countryside. 

The kitchen was large and open plan with an island in the middle, and wooden beams in the ceiling giving a luxurious touch to it. 

She also had large glass doors which looked out onto her garden, and allowed for plenty of sunlight to shine through.

Her video also showed her bathroom, which had a standalone large bath in it as well as her living space which had a fireplace lit to give a warm cosy touch to it. 

Having so much garden space also allows her to keep animals on it including a goat, and two dogs which her son plays with. 

Leonie explained that it was self-built in the English countryside and she was able to style it whilst also doing some bargain hunting. 

Speaking to her followers, she adds that “you guys probably think I’m rich but in reality we spent eight years living in a caravan to achieve the dream of building our own home and it was so worth it.” 

Living in a Static Caravan and getting paid for it!

Revealing that she is a “country girl at heart,” Leonie loves that she can spend time with her family, horses, animals, and “gorgeous son”.

Her video, which was shared in October, has gained 105.6k views and gained 67 comments. 

One person who was in a similar situation, wrote: “I spent 10 years in our Mobil while we built our home. It was worth it, no mortgage.” 

Whilst a second complimented her “beautiful home” saying that her situation was “a dream.” 

Modern kitchen with exposed wooden beams and a large island.

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She now lives in her dream family homeCredit: tiktok.com/@building_ribbons

A third asked: “Your home is beautiful, can you please talk us through how you found the land and the process of building?

“Also, did you live in the caravan on the land?” 

Leonie replied: “We already owned the land….. planning took us nearly 10 years…the build took around 18 months. Yea we lived on site.”

How much does it cost to live in a caravan?

LIVING in a caravan can be an economical and flexible lifestyle choice in the UK. Here’s a breakdown of potential costs:

Initial Costs

  • Caravan Purchase: £8,000 – £40,000 (depending on size, age, and condition)
  • Caravan Insurance: £200 – £800 per year

Ongoing Monthly Costs

  • Pitch Fees: £150 – £600 (varies by location and facilities)
  • Utilities (Electricity, Gas, Water): £40 – £120
  • Maintenance and Repairs: £20 – £80
  • Internet and TV: £20 – £50
  • Gas for Heating/Cooking: £15 – £40

Other Potential Costs

  • Waste Disposal Fees: £8 – £25
  • Transport Costs (if moving locations): Variable, depending on distance
  • Optional Add-ons (Awning, Solar Panels, etc.): £400 – £1,600 (one-time)

Sample Monthly Budget

  • Pitch Fees: £400
  • Utilities: £80
  • Maintenance and Repairs: £40
  • Internet and TV: £40
  • Gas for Heating/Cooking: £25
  • Total: £585

Annual Estimated Cost

  • Total Monthly Costs: £585 x 12 = £7,020
  • Insurance: £500
  • Maintenance and Repairs: £480
  • Total Annual Cost: £8,000

Tips to Save

  • Off-Peak Pitch Fees: Look for lower rates during off-peak seasons.
  • DIY Maintenance: Handle minor repairs yourself.
  • Energy Efficiency: Invest in solar panels to reduce utility costs.

While initial setup costs can be significant, ongoing expenses for living in a caravan can be relatively low, making it a viable option for those seeking an affordable and mobile lifestyle in the UK.



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The real reason why your hydrangeas look brown and crispy – plus the mistakes you must avoid for them to bloom this May

HYDRANGEAS are beautiful when they bloom, but are yours looking rather brown and crispy?

Well, if yours could do with some TLC and you aren’t sure where to start, you’ve come to the right place as we’ve got all the handy tips and tricks you’ll need. 

Close-up of hands pruning dried hydrangeas.

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A gardening guru has revealed the real reason why your hydrangeas are looking brown and crispyCredit: Getty
Pink hydrangeas in bloom.

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Not only this, but if you want to ensure your flowers bloom this month, you’ll need to take note of these two errors you must avoidCredit: Getty

Hydrangeas are known for their big, beautiful cluster flower heads, but it appears that many gardeners often do not know how to care for them properly, which can prevent them from flowering. 

With May in full swing, hydrangeas are just beginning to grow again, and gardeners often fertilise or prune them now to help encourage bigger blooms in the future. 

However, a gardening pro has revealed the big mistake people must avoid if they want their hydrangeas to bloom this month.

Not only this, but Heather Stoven from Oregon State University, also shared the real reason why hydrangeas can sometimes look a bit worse for wear. 

Read more gardening stories

Heather revealed the two gardening jobs that must be avoided, as she recommended: “Avoid pruning; the resulting lush new growth will be sensitive to further damage from heat waves later in the summer.

“Also avoid fertilising as excess fertiliser can attract pests to the plant.”

It may seem obvious to fertilise plants to get more flowers, but according to Heather, now that we’re in May, it is far too early to feed hydrangeas. 

Fertilising hydrangeas now will result in weak growth that is unlikely to survive in the heat.

Not only this, but it will also attract insects who look for softener foliage that is easier for them to eat. 

Many hydrangeas have already formed their flower buds and pruning them now will risk cutting off the blooms, meaning you will not get any flowers at all. 

How to get rid of garden weeds in minutes – and what not to do

Doing so will stress out the plant when it is actually growing, further causing damage. 

However, according to the pro, hydrangeas are thirsty plants due to their big leaves which can quickly lose water.

As a result, the biggest mistake many gardeners make is not watering them enough in May.

Gardening tips and hacks

It is crucial to water hydrangeas properly to help establish strong roots so they can retain more water once summer arrives. 

If hydrangeas do not get enough water while they are growing new roots, then the plant will not be strong enough to grow flowers and can even die if under too much stress. 

Heather acknowledged: “If not enough water is available in the soil, or it is lost to the atmosphere faster than it can be replaced, then the plant tissue where the water can’t reach will die. 

Water plants deeply prior to the heat event so that the root zone is well hydrated

Heather

“This is why we see so many brown, crispy leaf edges. It is also possible for high heat itself to cause tissue death.”

According to Heather, the best way to help hydrangeas at the moment is to water them deeply and keep the soil hydrated.

Having said that, you will need to make sure you are watering at the right time. 

Top 5 Spring Gardening Jobs

*If you click a link in this boxout, we may earn affiliate revenue

Nick Grey, Gtech Inventor and CEO shared the tasks to crack on with as Spring arrives.

1. Clean your garden

Make sure to clear away all leaves, soil and plant debris from your patios and flower beds; this creates a healthier environment for new growth, especially as we get into the summer months. Gtech’s Garden Safety Kit includes durable gardening gloves and safety glasses; perfect for comfortability whilst tackling those outdoor tasks.

2. Weeding

Early Spring is the best time to tackle weeds; if you can introduce some regular weeding into your routine, you can guarantee a tidy garden all year round. 

3. Hedge maintenance

Spring is the ideal time to tidy up overgrown hedges and shrubs, as regular trimming ensures healthy growth and reduces pest issues. Using a tool like the Gtech Lightweight Hedge Trimmer can help to keep your greenery looking sharp and neat.  

4. Composting

Starting a compost heap this spring is a pro-active, cost-effective way to harness nutritious soil for your plants and recycle organic waste that will benefit the overall health of your greenery and foliage.  

5. Look after your lawn

Lawn care is hugely important in assuring your garden stays looking beautiful. Make sure to rake away any excess leaves and trim your grass routinely.

It is better to water hydrangeas in the morning as the hotter weather later on in the day will cause water evaporation, meaning a large proportion of moisture will not make it to the soil. 

Watering hydrangeas in the morning allows them to absorb water more efficiently and ensures roots are hydrated throughout the day, which in turn will help them grow stronger and healthier. 

Heather advised: “Water plants deeply prior to the heat event so that the root zone is well hydrated.”

If you choose the right time to water hydrangeas and do it consistently, this will ensure you help these beautiful plants grow to their full potential so you get lots of lovely big blooms once summer arrives.

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