COLEEN Rooney has taken a fresh swipe at her ex-pal Rebekah Vardy as she uses their Wagatha Christie row to cash in – AGAIN.
Wayne’s wife was famously embroiled in a six-year fight with fellow WAG Rebekah when Coleen turned detective and accused Rebekah of leaking stories from her personal Instagram account.
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Coleen Rooney winks after new dig at Rebekah VardyCredit: Paddy PowerShe does her famous detective work for Danny Dyer in a new Paddy Power advertGemma Collins appears in the ad with her own iconic catchphraseCredit: Paddy Power
In the infamous post, Coleen dramatically announced to the world: “It’s . . . Rebekah Vardy’s account.”
The iconic catchphrase was today used in a new TV advert for Paddy Power starring Coleen and other famous faces including Danny Dyer, Peter Crouch and Gemma Collings.
Cockney EastEnders legend Danny stars as a casino kingpin who flips out when he spots a prosecco glass on his blackjack table, shouting: “Which melt has left their drink on my felt?”
And in a nod to Coleen’s super sleuth skills, he gets a text from Coleen, which says: “It’s… Gemma Collins.”
She then winks at the camera after being described by Danny as a “silent assassin”.
A TV insider told The Sun: “Even after all these years, people are obsessed with the Wagatha Christie case and Coleen’s detective work.
“The whole ordeal was a nightmare for Coleen at the time but she’s since made a lot of money from the experience and is happy to capitalise on it.
“Paddy Power is renowned for its hilarious media campaigns and this is yet another example.”
The advert for Paddy Power Games follows 39-year-old Coleen’s previous Wagatha Christie jab when she was announced as the investigator of Man City’s Financial Fair Play case in an hilarious sketch.
Coleen Rooney said: “I’ve been watching the same game almost my entire life, so it’s nice to have a bit of variety for once, and being back with the Paddy Power crew to film such a glamourous ad was brilliant.
“I loved getting dressed up and stepping into the madness of a Paddy Power casino world – Danny played the role of casino boss perfectly, plus I got to reprise my role as head of investigations….what more could you want!”
Rebekah – who’s married to Jamie Vardy – brought a multi-million pound case to court after Coleen publicly accused her of leaking to the press in October 2019.
WITH research revealing that a quarter of Brits (26%) admit to dating someone because of their moustache perhaps there’s more to Danny Dyer’s debonair charm than meets the eye.
Commissioned by Paddy Power Games, the study has confirmed what women have known for decades – there’s something irresistible about a man with a moustache.
What’s more, when asked to rank the sexiest famous taches, Danny Dyer outranked both Harry Styles and Paul Mescal:
First of all, it’s in Essex not London, and it’s bizarrely a regular filming destination for Hollywood directors – doubling up for everything from Venice to Gotham City.
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From Batman to Indiana Jones and even Paddington Bear, the port town of Tilbury in Essex is a big star of the screenCredit: AlamyIt’s also home to Tilbury Town train station which has been hailed as ‘life-changing’Credit: Google
When Christian Bale was Batman, he spent time filming at the docks while it doubled up as Gotham City, as well as the nearby Coalhouse Fort on the edge of the River Thames.
The Coalhouse Fort was built in the 1860s to protect the Thames – and in the movie was made to look like a prison.
Christian Bale isn’t the only mega star to have spent time in Tilbury, Harrison Ford, Sean Connery and director Steven Spielberg visited the docks to film the third Indiana Jones movie; Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.
They even used the docks as the background for a boat chase, which they pretended was Venice.
And perhaps the most famous star of them all – Paddington Bear.
Tilbury featured in the first Paddington Bear film, at the beginning of the movie when the bear migrates from Peru and ends up heading into London.
Tilbury Dock is located in Tilbury Town, which features a star-shaped, 16th century fort on the waterfront that was built to defend the river against enemy ships.
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It was in nearby West Tilbury that Elizabeth I rallied her army, awaiting the Armada in 1588.
You can now visit Tilbury Fort, as it’s managed by English Heritage, tickets for adults cost £8.60 and tickets for children are £5.
The speedboat chase in Indiana Jones was filmed in Tilbury, not VeniceCredit: UnknownThe star-shaped Tilbury Fort sits on the riversideCredit: Alamy
Meanwhile, the train station in Tilbury Town has been shortlisted as one of the most life-changing stations in the country.
It’s part of the World Cup of Stations Competition where a group of shortlisted stations in Britain battle it out head-to-head in a public vote.
People have shared their own stories about the train stations to celebrate 200 years of British railway.
Tilbury Town has been hailed as a “key point of arrival for people journeying to Britain.
“From emigrants and returning servicemen to post-war migrants seeking fresh opportunities, Tilbury became a symbol of hope and renewal.
“One of its finest moments came in June 1948, when the Empire Windrush docked at Tilbury, bringing hundreds of passengers from the Caribbean.”
A NICE guy doing bad things isn’t an original premise for a comedy drama.
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But base it on the true story of an escaped felon hiding out in a toy shop and things get more interesting.
Channing Tatum plays Jeffrey Manchester, the charismatic convict from North Carolina with the ‘you couldn’t make it up’ life storyCredit: AlamyFor six months Jeffrey sleeps undetected, surviving on stolen M&M’s, while watching jobsworth boss Mitch (Peter Dinklage), above, on CCTV for entertainmentCredit: Alamy
Channing Tatum plays Jeffrey Manchester, the charismatic convict from North Carolina with the “you couldn’t make it up” life story.
An ex-military man, Manchester has been struggling financially since being decommissioned.
So to support his family he turns to a professional life of crime.
His first attempt at dropping through the ceiling of a McDonald’s and emptying their tills is such a success he repeats this style of heist 45 more times.
As a non-violent robber who offers people his coat while holding them up at gunpoint, he soon earns himself the local moniker of “Roofman”.
As police put it, he’s a genius, but also an idiot.
When eventually caught and sentenced to four decades behind bars, Manchester swiftly escapes jail and goes on the run.
Looking for a place to take cover he lands on a Toys R Us store and sets up home in a crate under the eaves.
For six months he sleeps undetected, surviving on stolen M&M’s, while watching jobsworth boss Mitch (Peter Dinklage) on CCTV for entertainment and ultimately falling for employee Leigh (Kirsten Dunst), a divorced mum.
The tale of how their romance blossoms — as Manchester increasingly risks his chances outside the store’s four walls — would seem utterly far-fetched, if it wasn’t for the fact that in 2004 it all actually happened. The chemistry between the leads is convincing.
Dunst as Leigh, the church-going single mum falling in love while being unknowingly duped, reminds you that no matter how outwardly likeable Manchester seems, he continually hurt people with his odd mix of arrogance, immaturity and intelligence.
He wants it all to be real, while knowing that it can’t be.
Director Derek Cianfrance (Blue Valentine) periodically lightens things up with various meme-worthy set pieces involving Tatum barely clad in feather boas, or wearing roller blades or completely starkers with only a fan to protect his modesty.
But it is the pondering over how decent a person, or not, Manchester really was that will keep you gripped.
GOOD FORTUNE
(15) 97mins
★★★☆☆
Keanu Reeves stars as a bumbling guardian angel in a silly but funny comedy about life swaps, gig work and heavenly misadventuresCredit: Alamy
KEANU Reeves is at his Bill and Ted-esque best in this silly, but very funny, light-hearted bromance about a guardian angel who can’t quite get a grip on his heavenly duties.
Written by Aziz Ansari (Master Of None) Reeves is Gabriel, a rookie winged protector limited to saving people from “texting while driving” catastrophes.
He’d like to rescue lost souls too but his boss Martha (Sandra Oh) thinks he’s not ready to be promoted.
One of his celestial charges is Arj (Ansari) who despite being well qualified, can’t catch a break and is sleeping in his car while doing gig economy work in LA for an odd-jobs app.
A stint as assistant for billionaire Jeff (Seth Rogen) – who spends his days shopping for Rolexes and sitting in his sauna – only makes him feel more of a failure. So Gabriel steps in to help by facilitating a life swap between the two, which he hopes will make Arj appreciates what he already has.
The script lacks the substance it was probably aiming for, and there’s far too much chatting about chicken nuggets, but this comedy does deliver lots of laughs.
AFTER THE HUNT
(15) 139mins
★★☆☆☆
Julia Roberts plays Alma Imhoff, a Yale philosophy professor and feminist who is idolised by her students.Credit: Alamy
SET in the academic enclaves of a rarefied American Ivy League University, this affected campus tale from director Luca Guadagnino could do with a tutorial to discuss what its own discourse is.
Julia Roberts plays Alma Imhoff, a Yale philosophy professor and feminist who is idolised by her students.
Imhoff and husband Frederick (Michael Stuhlbarg) host bourgeois soirees in their art-filled pad where favourite students including Maggie (Ayo Edebiri), and Hank (Andrew Garfield) gather to muse and debate.
But when Maggie accuses Hank of sexual assault and turns to her tutor for guidance, beliefs, boundaries and loyalties blur for both women.
Roberts is exceptional as Imhoff but the pace is so laboured and the ostentatious dialogue so pleased with itself it feels like a dull self-congratulatory lecture.
A repetitive ticking pendulum only emphasises the plodding pace and a subplot about stomach ulcers adds little. Some valid social commentary around generational divides is quickly drowned out by more droning. The many lingering close-ups are stylistically credible yet still dull.
Laura Stott
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SOUTHWEST Airlines has revealed its new cabin interior and the seats have been made to be extra comfy.
The budget airline says it has listened to travellers and improved facilities in its updated cabin like USB chargers and entertainment holders.
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Southwest Airlines has revealed the design of its new cabinCredit: Southwest AirlinesThe budget airline is the word’s biggest as it serves the largest number of routesCredit: Alamy
Southwest Airlines is the world’s biggest budget airline as it serves the largest number of routes around the world.
Now, it has revealed the new design onboard its Boeing 737 MAX 8 – the airline even took passenger feedback into account when creating the new cabin.
It has covered “employee perceptions of color, comfort, and aspirations for the overall onboard experience, and it’s meant to create a cabin environment that feels modern, welcoming, and uniquely Southwest.”
The airline added that its seats “are intuitively designed for ultimate comfort, while maximizing seat width and overall support”.
The design should make for better lumbar support than the current seats on Southwest’s planes.
Along with a new seat design the cabin has bigger overhead lockers with space for 60 per cent more bags, USB-A and USB-C chargers at every seat and carpeting and lighting updates.
It even has a holder for electronic devices on the back of seats, and tray tables have inset drink holders on left and right.
On the plane are extra legroom rows which have been fitted ahead of the official launch of assigned seating from January 2026.
More than half of the carrier’s planes have now been fitted with extra legroom as of mid-October 2025.
So while economy seats have been fitted with extras, they aren’t any bigger. The pitch is 31″, while extra legroom seats have five inches more legroom.
There’s lots more room on the overhead lockers in the new cabin fitCredit: Instagram/@southwestair
Extra legroom seats also come with two free checked bags, early boarding, premium drinks and snacks, and free Wi-Fi.
Earlier this year, Chris Perry, a Southwest spokesperson, told USA TODAY: “We didn’t want to remove any seats from the planes so we pulled down an inch of pitch to accommodate the ELR [extra legroom] seating and stay at 175 seats” referring to the Boeing 737-800 and Max 8 planes
He added the airline’s 737-700s will each have six fewer seats after retrofits.
WestJet announced it has had a “full cabin refresh” and introduced economy seating with a “fixed recline” to its Boeing 737-8 MAX and 737-800 aircraft.
WestJet explained that the reason for this is to “help preserve personal space”.
There’s space to perch and charge personal devicesCredit: Instagram/@southwestair
For passengers who do want to put their seats back, you can do so in premium – a new seating option which has been added to the aircraft.
The airline went on to add that the new seating options are good news for passengers as it will result in cheaper tickets.
This is because filling economy seats means that airlines can cover basic costs, whereas selling premium or first class tickets is where they make their money.
By reducing the size of economy seats, or even taking some out altogether, airlines have room to create more space for high-profit cabins.
ANYONE seeking Christmas luxury can add a trip on this incredible train to your festive wish list.
For the seasonal period, the Northern Belle has launched three new offerings from exploring Edinburgh to wandering around Christmas markets, and indulging in dinner with all the twimmings.
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The 1930s style Northern Belle is returning to UK cities and towns for ChristmasCredit: InstagramGuests can expect luxury as well as plenty to eat and drinkCredit: Northern Belle
From November 15 until December 20, the Northern Belle, is going all out for Christmas.
One of the experiences is for the ‘Christmas Lunch’ where guests are welcomed in style as a red carpet is laid across the platform.
Onboard there’s welcome Champagne and tasty canapés, once guests are settled into a comfortable armchair, they will be served a seven-course festive feast.
The sample menu includes a Scottish salmon roulade starter, roasted white onion potage and a turkey dinner.
There’s a choice of three desserts; spiced apple and cranberry tart, dark chocolate and hazelnut delice, and a mandarin and gingerbread panna cotta.
To finish off the meal will be a seasonal dessert, cheeseboard and glass of Port.
Throughout the meal, live musicians will play festive tunes, and there’s even an onboard conjuror to entertain.
After the meal, passengers can relax with a Fortnum & Mason cup of tea and petite fours.
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The Northern Belle is heading all over the country for the festive treat, and is heading to cities like Newcastle and York.
But it will also visit some market towns too. For example the journey from Norwich will also pick up passengers at Ipswich.
After the seven course dinner, passengers will be served dessert and a cheeseboardCredit: Northern BelleMusicians will entertain by playing a selection of festive tunesCredit: Northern Belle
On the journey to Preston, the train will make three initial stops at Chester, Liverpool and Wigan – but wherever you get on, the Northern Belle does a round-trip to each destination.
Tickets for Christmas lunch on the Northern Belle start at £395 and are available to book now.
The Northern Belle came in fifth place between the Glacier Express at number four and the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express at number six.
Other trips onboard the Northern Belle include Historic Edinburgh at Christmas.
The journey begins in Hull at 7.25AM where passengers can enjoy a three-course brunch with a Mimosa or Bloody Mary cocktail.
The vintage style train is made up of seven carriagesCredit: northernbelle
Passengers will journey up to Edinburgh where they will have five hours to explore the city.
On returning to the train, guests can indulge in a champagne reception that awaits before enjoying a six-course dinner with fine wine – the price for this starts at £495 per passenger.
The other Christmas offering is exploring York’s festive markets for passengers who hop on in Glasgow and Edinburgh.
The journey involves the same cocktail and three-course brunch offering as the Edinburgh exploration and then free time will be exploring York and the markets.
On the return journey guests will again get to enjoy a six-course dinner – tickets start at £495pp.
Next year, the train is offering Mother’s Day Lunches onboard, Afternoon Tea, as well as trips to Cheltenham, Chatsworth House, the Sandringham Flower Show, Edinburgh Fringe Festival and Torquay.
SET in the grounds of the Chatsworth Estate is a new hotel with cosy rooms and restaurant.
Not only is there the hotel to explore there’s also the Chatsworth stately home, garden, farmyard and woodland play area – plus, rooms are under £100 per night.
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The new cosy hotel with 25 rooms has opened on the Chatsworth EstateCredit: suppliedGuests can visit the stately home that was used in Pride and Prejudice during their stayCredit: Alamy
It’s on the very edge of the Chatsworth Estate and is described as a place to “relax, reconnect and take advantage of the Peak District”.
The 25 rooms range from Cosy, to Comfortable, Spacious, Bunk and Accessible Rooms – and the rates start from £99 per night.
The cosy rooms come with a double or king size bed, power shower and free Wi-Fi, meanwhile the spacious or bunk rooms are more suited towards families.
As for eating, The Hide serves up food throughout the day at The Hide Grill and Pizzeria from buffet breakfast to a Full English in the morning.
There’s also mains from fish and chips to beef and ale pie, burgers and steak which comes with skin-on fries and house pickles.
On Sundays, you can enjoy a roast at £18pp from Chatsworth Farm beef to rotisserie chicken, lamb and butternut squash wellington – each comes with roast potatoes, veggies and Yorkshire puddings.
In the summer months, the hotel opens up its outdoor pizza oven, BBQ and even has a fire pit for making s’mores.
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Guests can enjoy direct access to the estate’s park moorland as well as entry to Chatsworth House, garden, farmyard and adventure playground.
As part of their stay, those staying at The Hide can add exclusive perks including multi-entry tickets to Chatsworth and private tours of the house when it is closed to the public.
There’s an on-site grill and pizzeria at The HideCredit: Photographer: Anna BatchelorThe Hide has various rooms from cosy to comfortableCredit: Anna Batchelor
The hotel is set on the grounds of Chatsworth House, it was built in the 1600s and is well-known for featuring as Pemberley in the 2005 adaptation ofPride and Prejudice.
It’s also appeared on the screen in The Duchess, The Wolfman, Peaky Blinders and Death Comes to Pemberley.
Also on the grounds is Chatsworth’s farmyard where families can meet the animals from pigs to horses, goats and guinea pigs.
There’s also the woodland adventure playground which has ladders, a climbing wall, tower and turrets.
It has a huge woodpecker model for playing on too with a zip wire, swings, and a giant sand play area.
There’s a wooden adventure playground on the estate tooCredit: Chatsworth
The Hide is managed by Chatsworth Escapes who also run award-winning The Cavendish Hotel.
In fact, Alness stop on the North Coast 500 (NC500) route – a popular 516-mile scenic road trip in the Scottish Highlands.
Around Alness you get great views as it’s close to the Cnoc Fyrish hill, and the Cromarty Firth which is home to seals and bottlenose dolphins.
One of the best views is up near the Fyrish Monument, a stone ruin high up on the hillside that overlooks the Cromarty Firth.
For anyone driving through on the NC500, or visiting, make sure to make Dalmore Distillery one of your stops.
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It’s one of Scotland’s most famous whisky producers and Dalmore Distillery has been making single malt Scotch whisky since 1839.
The site has said it will re-open to visitors in 2026 with a “new experience” for whisky enthusiasts.
Dalmore Distillery has been making single malt Scotch whisky since 1839Credit: UnknownDalmore Farm Shop & Restaurant has won an Travellers’ Choice Award by Tripadvisor for 2025Credit: Supplied
Very near the distillery is Dalmore Farm Shop & Restaurant, the town’s locally run farm where you can pop in for a bite to eat.
The farm shop won a Travellers‘ Choice Award in 2025 for its consistently high reviews, particularly for its cakes.
But they also serve up breakfast from eggs benedict and the ‘breakfast stack’ to lunch, like steak flatbread to scampi and chips.
For anyone wanting to hunker town in Alness, the two hotels on the high street are the Commercial Hotel with rooms from £80 per night.
Or at the other end of the high street is the larger Station Hotel with big rooms around £110 per night, and there’s a pub underneath.
One of the best spots for views is at the Fyrish MonumentCredit: Alamy
Nearer to Ardross Castle is the Kildermorie Estate, a traditional Scottish Highland Estate open throughout the year.
It’s around 19,000 acres with plenty to do for those looking for activities from fishing in the lochs to bird watching and hiking up the Carn Chuinneagh mountain.
There’s accommodation on the estate too from cottages that sleep two to the lodge that can host up to 20 guests.
As for Ardross Castle, it’s sadly not open to visitors.
But if you’re up for a hike, some fans of the show have said you can get views of the front of the castle across the valley at Wester Lealty.
Others say you can hike along the coastal path where you can spot the castle in the distance.
Here are 7 castles you can stay in to feel like you’re on The Traitors…
Leasowe Castle Leasowe Castle is nestled along the Wirral seaside and is a 15 minute drive from Liverpool city centre. The castle has basic twin, double and master bedrooms with four-poster beds. It also has suites in the castle including one in the tower and one in the turret. Historically, Leasowe dates back to the 16th century, and has a unique octagonal tower.
Tulloch Castle Hotel
Tulloch Castle is a 12th-century-castle set against the landscape of the Highlands of Scotland, and is a five-minute drive away from Dingwall. The hotel is dog friendly, and nature fans can explore the North Coast 500 route too. The castle retains many of its period features, including the 250-year old panelled entrance hall, and restored original fireplaces and ceilings.
Castle Bromwich Hall
Castle Bromwich Hall really gives off Traitors vibes thanks to its gothic appearance. The mansion on the outskirts of Birmingham is a Grade I listed building and has retained many original features from the 1700s, including the huge entrance hall and grand staircase. The bedrooms are kitted out with traditional looking furniture, from four poster beds to chandeliers and claw foot bath tubs. You can even stay in their ‘Bridal Suite’ which was used in by Queen Elizabeth I.
Cave Castle Hotel
Cave Castle Hotel has over 350 years of history with original turrets and stone features. The huge castle in Hull has 71 rooms, some with four-poster beds and modern features in the newer wings. Cave Castle also has offers like Galentines, which for a girls night away includes Prosecco on arrival and treatments at the spa. The hotel has got ratings of 4 out of 5 on Tripadvisor with guests “impressed” by the “spectacular” building and “picturesque” grounds.
Walworth Castle Walworth Castle, in the Tees Valley countryside, dates back to 1189, and is set in 18 acres of lawns and woodlands. It’s a good choice for anyone who has an interest in the paranormal as the castle its said to be haunted, with murder mystery evenings too. They offer four poster tower suites with double Jacuzzi baths as well as an also an award winning restaurant and farmers bar.
Lumley Castle Hotel
Surrounded by parklands and overlooking the River Wear is the Lumley Castle Hotel in County Durham. Lumley Castle Hotel was built in 1388 and converted into a hotel in 1976. The most impressive room is the King James Suite which has a 20ft high four-poster bed, its own reception room and Jacuzzi bath.
Ruthin Castle Hotel and Spa
The four star castle hotel is found within the Clwydian Range in North Wales and has been dubbed “romantic” by guests. Ruthin Castle has rooms from standard to deluxe suites as well as on-site spa with mud room, woodland hot tubs and massages, body scrubs and facials. Guests on Tripadvisor were particularly impressed with the gardens and the “peacocks on the grounds”. They also have garden games like croquet and giant chess.
SUPERMODEL Kendall Jenner gives a brand a leg up in an ad campaign — for a beauty mask.
She posed with her limb in the air for Therabody’s LED TheraFace Mask Glo, which is said to reduce the signs of ageing.
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Stunning Kendall Jenner posed with her limb in the air for Therabody’s LED TheraFace Mask GloCredit: TherabodyKendall says she has been a long time fan of Therabody productsCredit: Therabody
Kendall said: “I’ve been using Therabody products for years, and I love anything that can help me feel and look my best. I started with the Theragun Mini and have used a number of their products.
“I was excited when the brand asked me to try the new LED mask. I’m always open to trying new products and treatments that are recommended to me by professionals.
“I absolutely love learning, especially about any superficial or natural anti-aging tricks. I’m a lot more focused on consistency and being gentle with my skin.”
“I dream, above all, of longevity. Even when I’m older, I hope people will still think of me,” she said.
“I’d like to stay in the limelight as the years go by… I would love to have a family, become a mother and have children.”
‘I love anything that can help me feel and look my best’, said the modelCredit: TherabodyThe mask is said to reduce the signs of ageingCredit: Therabody
WINTER sun can be hard to come by in the Mediterranean, but Sun Travel has found some very popular destinations that are still hot in November.
With travel time less than five hours, highs over 20C and flights for £19.99 or less – here are the places you should look to book for winter getaway.
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Escapes to the likes of Tenerife can cost as little as £14.99Credit: AlamyMarrakech is full of colourful markets with plenty of beautiful goodiesCredit: Alamy
Marrakech, Morocco
A flight to Marrakech takes up to four hours and is well worth it thanks to the November temperatures of 22C.
The city is known for its souks, historic palaces and bustling medina – so there’s plenty to do on your break even if its not by the beach.
“We were sunbathing on the roof of our riad in the Medina in glorious 22 degree temperatures – and I loved the amazing desert landscapes just 40 minutes from the hustle and bustle of the souks.
“Tourism is booming in the city and while the streets are as colourful and chaotic as ever, the influx of visitors has brought some gorgeous new bars, restaurants and stunning hotels.”
Lisa explored the cuisine of Morocco three-hour food tour of the Medina with Get Your Guide for just £35 per person.
Just an hour outside of the city is the Agafay Desert where you can zoom over sand dunes in buggies and see camels.
Not only are temperatures mild, but Marrakech gets around seven hours of sunshine per day and little rainfall.
The capital of Malta, Valletta, is three and a half hours away; it’s known for its pretty Baroque architecture and the Grand Harbour.
One writer discovered underground tunnels during her visit to VallettaCredit: Alamy
While Valletta doesn’t have beaches per se, it does have great waterfront views, and you can enjoy them in weather that reaches highs of 21C in November.
SEO EditorNuria Cremer-Vazquezrevealed more about the island on her recent trip to Malta, she said: “This tinyMediterraneancountry is smaller than the Isle of Wight, which goes some way in explaining why its food goes under many people’s radars; the limited land area means Maltese produce is barely exported, so you have to try it at source.
“One dinner, we could taste the different cultures that have calledMaltahome over the centuries — Italian in the ricotta parcels and focaccia, Arabian in the date-based sweets and bigilla (a hummus-like dip made from beans), Spanish in the bread rubbed with tomato and drizzled in olive oil.“
You can easily swim in the sea when it’s 22C in PaphosCredit: Alamy Stock Photo
Paphos, Cyprus
While it might not technically be the hottest place in Cyprus during November, it’s much cheaper to get to Paphos than its neighbours Larnaca and Limassol.
Paphos is on the southwest coast of the island of Cyprus and throughout the year has plenty of sunshine – even in November.
It sees around seven hours of sunshine per day with daytime temperatures averaging around 22C, so it’s even warm enough to go sea swimming.
One writer who visited Paphos revealed that the city will really appeal to Brits, he said: “Here, everyone drives on the left and even the cabbies obey the speed limit.
“It’s things like that, along with 300 days of glorious sunshine a year and no real language barrier (and even the fact Cyprus uses the UK three-pin plug!), that make the island so popular with us Brits.
“Paphos’s bars and boutiques are worth checking out but make sure you eat at the fantastic Agora Tavern, a family-owned place on a hill overlooking the sea.
“There are just two things on the menu, the small meze and the large one. Choose your size and enjoy this fabulous array of local delicacies all chosen for you.”
Flights to Paphos start from £14.99 if travelling from Manchester and London Stansted in November and takes around four hours 30 minutes.
Seville is a very colourful city and is lined with orange treesCredit: Alamy
Seville, Spain
Seville is the capital and largest city of Andalusia and known for its historic buildings, busy streets full of cafes and ice cream parlours.
There are thousands of street-planted bitter orange trees and you don’t have to walk far to see some authentic flamenco dancing and great tapas.
In November, Seville has average high temperatures of 20C and averages out at having just five days of rainfall.
Deputy Travel Editor, Kara Godfrey who recently went to the city, revealed how to get free tickets to attractions around the city. She said: “The Royal Alcázar of Seville, a palace dating back 1,000 years, offers limited free tickets on Mondays between 6pm and 7pm.
“Or for Seville Cathedral, there are 100 free tickets a day between 2pm and 3pm.”
Flights from Edinburgh to Seville with Ryanair start from £16 in November – and it’s just a two hour 45 minutes journey.
Palermo gives tourists a chance for a city or beach breakCredit: Alamy
Palermo, Italy
In just over three hours, you can ditch the dingy UK for the beautiful island of Sicily which has highs of 20C in November.
Palermo is the capital of the Italian island of Sicily and thanks to its seaside location, has the best of both worlds – city and beach break.
She told us: “The capital city still remains authentically Sicilian – only 30 per cent of people there speak English.
“Head to the Via Maqueda where new and exciting cocktail bars sprout up on a daily basis.
“Walk along Via Vittorio Emanuele (the main pedestrian street) until you’ve reached the beautiful Cathedral.
“The entire street has some of the coziest aperitivo spots in the city – whether you like seafood, pizza, or pasta, there’s a bit of something for everyone.”
If you’re after a beach holiday, then head to the village of Mondello or the town of San Vito Lo Capo.
Flights from London Stansted to Palermo in Italy start from £19.99 with Ryanair and takes around three hours.
Funchal is the capital of the Portuguese archipelago, MadeiraCredit: pawel.gaul
The capital of the archipelago isFunchalwhich is on the main island’s south coast – and where you can fly directly to from the UK.
In November, Funchal has high temperatures of 23C, so it’s pleasant for walking or exploring the beaches.
You won’t get any soft golden sands here though, it’ll be black thanks to its volcanic surroundings – Funchal has a few small beaches, includingPraia Formosa andPraia de São Tiago.
If you don’t fancy the walk or the toboggan, take the cable car where you’ll get incredible views over Funchal.
When you get into the city, make sure to explore the old town and busy Lavradores market.
Flights from London Stansted to Funchal in November start from £14.99 with Ryanair.
Tenerife offers sun and mild temperatures throughout winterCredit: Alamy
Tenerife, Canary Islands
Heading to Tenerife may take a little longer on the plane, around four and a half hours, but you’re likely to get warm weather and plenty of sun.
Temperatures in Tenerife can be as high as 24C in November.
The Canary Islands are generally hot year-round because of their location – it’s on the same latitude as the Sahara Desert.
The most popular places in Tenerife its beaches, when Sun Travel chatted to some locals, they revealed the spot where the locals hang out.
Rick Cosgrove who lives and works on the island said: “La Tejita, near the airport in the south of the island, is the largest sandy beach in Tenerife and used mainly by locals (also one of the island’s windiest, it is popular with windsurfers).
“Two of the favourite black sand beaches among locals are Playa san Juan, up the coast from Costa Adeje, and Las Galletas beach, not far from Los Cristianos.”
A ONE-of-a-kind ice rink will open next month at one of London’s most popular rooftop bars.
Anyone seeking Christmas fun will be able to ice skate at the highest rooftop bar in Peckham, and it has 360-degree views of the London skyline.
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London’s highest ice rink will open in Peckham next monthCredit: ICE at Bussey Rooftop BarThe Bussey Rooftop Bar is bustling in the summer and will transform for winterCredit: Instagram
On top of the Bussey Building in Peckham is a huge rooftop bar – and it is set to be turned into an ice rink for the winter season.
From November 17 until January 1, the Bussey Rooftop Bar area will be transformed into an ice rink with a bar.
On Facebook it said: “Tickets are LIVE for London’s freshest rooftop ice rink! Skate under the stars, then head to our Après Skate Bar for spiked hot chocs, winter spritzes, mulled magic and DJs every Fri & Sat bringing all the feels“.
The Bussey Rooftop Bar will become the Après Skate Bar and transform into a winter lodge – think twinkly lights, outdoor heaters and blankets.
Also on the rooftop, you’ll be able to buy bar snacks and grab stone-baked pizzas.
Tickets for the ice rink are on sale now and cost £14 for adults, £10 per person for family tickets, and £9 for children.
Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor, loves the rooftop bar, she said: “One of my favourite places to go isPeckham, because of its famous rooftop. I’ve spent many a sunny day at the Bussey building, a rooftop on top of a car park.
“It serves amazing pizzas and beers and has fantastic music playing as well. When the sun goes down, make sure to grab afilmat Peckhamplex with £5.99 tickets all day, or Four Quarters, a retro arcade bar.“
The Bussey Building is an old factory around the corner from Peckham Rye that hosts club nights, yoga classes and artists’ spaces.
It’s home toRooftop Film Club, an open-air cinema that shows classic, cult, and new release films during the summertime.
Skaters will be able to enjoy sunset views from the rooftopCredit: AlamyThere will be plenty of food and Christmassy drinks tooCredit: Instagram
The Peckham bar has been included in guides for “Best Outdoor Bars in London” and “Best Rooftop Bars in London.
Some of the regulars are excited to try out the new space, one wrote on Instagram under the skating announcement: “Can’t wait!”
Another added: “Just when I thought bussey couldn’t get better”.
EASYJET has revealed it will be setting up an airport base next year in one of the most popular African cities with Brits – meaning more cheap flights.
The budget airline has announced it will be growing its program from Marrakech in Morocco.
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easyJet is expanding its program with more flights to and from MarrakeshCredit: Alamy Morocco is one of the cheapest countries for Brit to go on holidayCredit: Alamy
While the new routes aren’t currently from the UK, other existing routes will see more flights launched.
easyJet already flies from the UK to Marrakech from eight hubs including Birmingham, Liverpool, Manchester London Gatwick, Luton and Southend.
In November, some of these one-way flights are as little as £14.99.
The new easyJet routes are from Hamburg, Lille and Strasbourg to Marrakech and Geneva to Tangier – each route will have twice weekly journeys meaning there will be hundreds of additional flights.
The consumer watchdog analysed the cost of 5,590 package holidays from some of the UK’s biggest tour operators, including Jet2holidays, TUI and easyJet Holidays.
Morocco was one of those places where holidaymakers can get more for their money.
Head of Sun Travel Lisa Minot recently visited the Moroccan city with her familyCredit: Lisa MinotMarrakesh is known for its colourful Medina and marketsCredit: Henryk Sadura
“We were sunbathing on the roof of our riad in the Medina in glorious 22 degree temperatures – and I loved the amazing desert landscapes just 40 minutes from the hustle and bustle of the souks.
“Tourism is booming in the city and while the streets are as colourful and chaotic as ever, the influx of visitors has brought some gorgeous new bars, restaurants and stunning hotels.”
Lisa also suggests visiting popular spots in the city of Marrakech like the Jemaa el-Fnaa square filled with cafes and colourful stalls.
It’s where visitors will see lots of performers from musicians to snakecharmers.
When you get hungry, make sure to visit one of the square’s many food stalls to pick up some maakouda – a traditional potato cake.
In the Kasbah district, you’ll find the Saadian Tombs. It’s a 14th-century site that was discovered in 1917 and the tombs are made from Italian Carrara marble.
For the best views, Lisa says head to Nobu Hotel’s rooftop where you can see the Atlas Mountains.
Of course you can tuck into some great food options too from quality sushi, and sip on a cocktail.
Another reason Morocco is set to be a big destination for next year is thanks to Ryanair.
The other budget airline announced that due to the axing of flights to Spain, the capacity removed from Spanish airports will be reallocated to more competitive European markets, including Morocco.
This means your holiday to Marrakech, or other Moroccan cities could become cheaper than a trip to Tenerife.
THE new and enormous theme park in Riyadh is set to open within the next two months despite it still being under construction.
Six Flags Qiddiya City said it’s will open later this year after reports it would be pushed back to spring 2026.
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The new Six Flags theme park will be home to four record-breaking rides – like Falcon’s FlightCredit: Six Flags Qiddiya CityThe Iron Rattler will be the tallest tilt ride in the worldCredit: sixflagsqiddiyacity
Falcon’s Flight, the fastest and tallest roller coaster in the world with speeds of 155 mph and heights of 639 feet.
The Sirocco Tower, will become the tallest free-standing shot ride in the world with a maximum height of 475 feet tall.
Iron Rattler, the tallest tilt coaster in the world at 208 feet tall. And Gyrospin, the tallest pendulum ride in the world will be 173 feet tall.
The Six Flags Qiddiya City will have six different lands; Steam Town, City of Thrills, Twilight Gardens, Grand Exposition, Valley of Fortune and Discovery Springs.
Discovery Springs is where visitors will be transported to deep underwater.
It has a ride called ‘Into the Deep’ where riders will be transported into sea caves on the interactive dark ride.
Discovery Springs will have deep sea immersive and water drop ridesCredit: sixflagsqiddiyacityInside Six Flags Qiddiya City will be six different themed areasCredit: Six Flags Qiddiya City
A rollercoaster called Sea Stallion, which will become the tallest and fastest rider-controlled coaster in the world, that will travel over rivers and behind waterfalls.
It also has a water drop adventure ride, and playground for children called Aquatopia.
There will be eight themed zones inspired by the wildlife found in Saudi Arabia, for example Camel Rock and Viper Canyon.
Inside the water park that’s also set to open in late 2025, will be 22 rides, a surf pool, water coaster and slides.
It’s not all rides and rollercoasters at Qiddiya City, the site will open its own racetrack that spans across two levels – the first of its kind in the world.
The track has even been designed by racing drivers and will have the very first elevated track corner which is 70-metres high – which equates to a 20-storey building.
While the track will mostly be used by professionals, it will host open days for members of the public.
NESTLED in the Northumberland countryside is a pretty village that dates back to the second century.
It has Roman roots, and looks like it goes back years thanks to its stone buildings and nearby historical ruins.
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Corbridge village in Northumberland has traditional stone cottagesCredit: AlamyThere are plenty of independent shops, cafes and restaurants on the high streetCredit: Alamy
The village of Corbridge is 16 miles out of Newcastle and it caught the attention of The Times last year, all thanks to its high street.
The publication ranked it as number four in its list of seven loveliest high streets in the UK, praising its unique independent shops and cafés.
It said: “If you’re visiting this postcard-pretty Northumberland town to indulge one of these niche interests, the good news is there’s a fantastic high street too.
“Try Baby at the Bank for cute kidswear, sold in a former bank (babyatthebank.co.uk); or there’s RE for furniture (“an eclectic mix of the raRE, REmarkable, REcycled, REscued and REstored”; re-foundobjects.com) and Corbridge Larder, where you can stock up on fine local foods — chutneys, pies, cakes — after taste-testing them in the adjoining café (corbridgelarder.co.uk).
“The Angel of Corbridge, built in 1569, is a lovely pub with rooms, moments from St Andrew’s Church and Market Place — the venue for many of the above events.”
Lots of the shops are independent, and there are lots of beauticians, hairdressers, cafés, restaurants, pubs and delis.
Part of the village’s charm is thanks to its buildings with stone exteriors that give it an old English look.
But Corbridge does itself have a rich historydating back to the Roman period.
Most read in Best of British
On the outskirts of the village is the famous Hadrian’s Wall where visitors can walk on the original surface of its Roman main street.
The museum has artefacts like the Corbridge Hoard, which is a Roman time capsule that was buried in the 2nd century AD.
There are plenty of pubs and restaurants throughout CorbridgeCredit: Alamy
The site of Hadrian’s Wall is managed by English Heritage and is open daily, 10am – 5pm. Tickets for adults start from £12.70 and children from £7.70.
It’s not all about history though, around 4,000 people live in Corbridge where the locals set up and attend regular events.
There’s the Steam Rally which annually takes place in the summertime, where there’s over 700 exhibits of steam engines, vintage cars, and tractors.
There’s also a bar, fairground, live music and food stalls.
It holds A Midsummer’s Evening in Corbridge which has market stalls, street food, live music, dance and late night shopping.
Each year on the first Monday in December, the village hosts Christmas in Corbridge with carol singing, food stalls and late night shopping.
To get to Corbridge, the best link is up to Newcastle then jump on the Tyne Valley Line to the village which takes just under 40 minutes.
OUR much-loved astrologer Meg sadly died in 2023 but her column is being kept alive by her friend and protégée Maggie Innes.
Read on to see what’s written in the stars for you today.
♈ ARIES
March 21 to April 20
As Pluto’s retrograde ends, you can begin that overdue review of your social circle – who inspires and supports you, who loves to criticise or condemn?
Changing the balance of power in bonds is a big ask, but it’s one you can achieve now.
Later, the atmosphere at home can lighten when you focus 100 per cent on the future.
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Your daily horoscope for Tuesday
♉ TAURUS
April 21 to May 21
Knowing what you really want, in terms of success, has been a challenge for months, but your chart is clearing now.
And that one ambition that keeps coming back into your mind can be the one to pursue.
The more “impossible” it seems, the more you can commit. Green and yellow can be lucky.
Get all the latest Taurus horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions
♊ GEMINI
May 22 to June 21
Even if money decisions seem challenging, this can be your day to share them with someone you trust.
You have all the star assets you need to deal with any feedback.
Love lessons may feel tough, but with input from Venus and Uranus they can build the resilient heart you need in order to move on.
Get all the latest Gemini horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions
♋ CANCER
June 22 to July 22
Disruption may not be your first choice as a calm-loving Cancer, but as Pluto spins forward again, you are ready to make waves.
At work, a team that has felt an uneasy fit can be reset.
While in a love bond, you can see where you need to make a stand – the difference this time is you have the confidence to do it.
Get all the latest Cancer horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions
♌ LEO
July 23 to August 23
True self-knowledge is not always comfy because it means accepting weaknesses as well as strengths.
But you are equipped to do this now, and to accept every part of yourself.
So you can live in more meaningful ways.
A set of names, or numbers, you associate with Christmas could link to luck.
Get all the latest Leo horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions
♍ VIRGO
August 24 to September 22
Old career hopes that you assumed were gone could suddenly re-emerge.
This is your signal that something needs to change – and with the positive power of Pluto, it can.
When you take yourself seriously, make some enquiries, the future can look so different.
A cash windfall can link to “V” names or places.
Get all the latest Virgo horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions
Scan through old ‘W’ messages for a potential luck linkCredit: Getty
♎ LIBRA
September 23 to October 23
The moon and Neptune enhance your emotional intelligence, and this can be a day to choose teammates and prospective partners with your heart rather than your head.
How you feel matters – even if this seems to lead you in some unlikely directions.
Scan through old “W” messages for a potential luck link.
Get all the latest Libra horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions
List of 12 star signs
The traditional dates used by Mystic Meg for each sign are below.
♏ SCORPIO
October 24 to November 22
Admitting you feel unchallenged, maybe even bored, by aspects of your life is an important step – as marking time is never a good match for your restless energy.
It may feel risky to shake the foundations of a family, or friendship, but you are ready to make good changes.
Colours that make you stand out in a crowd, rather than fading into the background, set the scene for your day – so do try out that more daring look you’ve been thinking about.
Your usual passion style may be to fit in – but you are ready to make your mark instead.
And wait for exciting new partners to be drawn toward you.
Get all the latest Pisces horoscope news including your weekly and monthly predictions
THE son of Dame Deborah James has honoured her “amazing” legacy by following in her fundraising footsteps.
Hugo Bowen ran the Royal Parks Half Marathon at the weekend, smashing his target to raise £3,000 for her Bowelbabe Fund, in true Dame Debs style.
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Deborah, pictured with her husband Seb, Hugo and daughter Eloise, received her damehood from Prince William before she died of bowel cancer in June 2022, aged 40Credit: Graham Prentice
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Dame Deborah’s son, Hugo Bowen, ran the Royal Parks Half Marathon in memory of his inspirational mum, raising more than £4,300 for her Bowelbabe FundCredit: Supplied
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Hugo told The Sun running was something he and his mum loved to do togetherCredit: Deborah James
The 18-year-old told The Sun: “Running was something Mum and I used to do when I was younger, we often did park runs and I think I spurred her on to run a little faster.
“It was amazing, there was so much support along the route, which really helped motivate me to run harder and faster than I would have.
“It meant so much to be able to run in memory of her, and the amazing change she has inspired.”
Reflecting on the advice his running-obsessed mum would’ve given before the race, he added: “She would definitely have told me to make sure I had had a poo.
READ MORE ON DEBORAH JAMES
“And to ‘go smash it’, which I probably did a bit too much at the start, so I was super tired towards the end.”
In the last weeks of her life, the Sun columnist launched her Bowelbabe Fund, aiming to raise £250,000 to help fund research into the disease to help prevent “any future Deborahs”, and give cancer patients the hope of new and better treatments.
So far, the Fund has supported more than 11 different projects, including a state-of-the-art interventional radiology machine at The Royal Marsden hospital where Deborah was treated.
Other scientific studies that have received a contribution from the Fund include one that is investigating personalised medicine for patients with bowel cancer, a cause Dame Debs was very passionate about.
The King went on to quote Debs parting message to her followers before she died: “Find a life worth enjoying; take risks; love deeply; have no regrets; and always, always have rebellious hope.”
“I’m honestly so proud of Mum and everything the Fund has done to help others,” Hugo added.
“I remember when she set it up she had a target of £250,000 and now we are at over £18million raised – it is beyond what any of us could’ve imagined.
“It’s such a beautiful legacy for my Mum and the research it is funding will save so many lives.”
Inspired by his mum, Hugo has already added another £4,300 to the Fund’s total, and thanked all those who have supported him so far.
“Everyone has been so supportive, I thought £3,000 would be a really difficult target to hit but we’ve smashed it and I’m so happy and honestly so surprised,” he added.
“I’m really grateful to everyone that has donated.”
Hugo was just the latest in the family to take on a running challenge, with Debs’ brother Ben and sister Sarah taking on the London Marathon this year – Sarah wearing the same poo emoji costume her sister was often seeing running in.
Sun columnist Deborah was 35 when she was diagnosed with stage 4 bowel cancer in 2016, and survived five and a half yearsCredit: Stewart Williams
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Hugo and his sister Eloise would often join their mum at Park Runs or the annual CRUK Race For LifeCredit: Supplied
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Deborah was an avid runner, and throughout her treatment would run to The Royal Marsden Hospital to collect test and scan results, to prove to herself that her body could still do itCredit: Instagram
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Dame Debs with her childrenCredit: Instagram
The signs of bowel cancer you need to know – remember BOWEL
B:Bleeding
There are several possible causes of bleeding from your bottom, of blood in your poo.
Bright red blood could come from swollen blood vessels, haemorrhoids or piles, in your back passage.
Dark red or black blood could come from your bowel or stomach.
Blood in your stools is one of the key signs of bowel cancer, so it’s important to mention it to your doctor so they can investigate.
2. O: Obvious change in loo habits
It’s important to tell your GP if you have noticed any changes in your bowel habits, that lasts three weeks or longer.
It’s especially important if you have also noticed signs of blood in your poo.
You might notice you need to go to the loo more often, you might have looser stools or feel like you’re not going enough or fully emptying your bowels.
Don’t be embarrassed, your GP will have heard a lot worse! Speak up and get it checked.
3. W: Weight loss
This is less common than the other symptoms, but an important one to be aware of. If you’ve lost weight and don’t really know why, it’s worth mentioning to your GP.
You may not feel like eating, feel sick, bloated and not hungry.
4. E: Extreme tiredness
Bowel cancer that causes bleeding can cause a lack of iron in the body – anaemia. If you develop anaemia you’re likely to feel tired and your skin might look pale.
5. L: Lump or pain
As with lots of other forms of cancer, a lump or pain can be a sign of bowel cancer.
It’s most likely you’ll notice a pain or lump in your stomach or back passage.
See your GP if it doesn’t go away, or if it affects how you eat or sleep
HE is among the world’s highest-paid male models, with smouldering good looks and a six-pack you could grate cheese on.
But David Gandy has swapped his jet-setting lifestyle for school runs, sleeping alone and discussions about HRT after becoming a father.
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Model David Gandy has swapped his jet-setting lifestyle for school runsCredit: David Gandy Wellwear
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The Brit hunk has daughters Matilda, six, and Tabitha, three, with partner Steph Mendoros, aboveCredit: Getty – Contributor
The Essex-born hunk — who has daughters Matilda, six, and Tabitha, three, with partner Steph Mendoros — may be desired by women across the globe.
But he spent three months kipping by himself on the floor after Tabitha’s birth in 2021, because she was taking up his side of the bed.
In his most candid interview yet, David — who shot to fame wearing tiny white briefs in Dolce & Gabbana ads — tells the latest episode of Fabulous’ No Parental Guidance podcast: “Steph, in the first few months, was sleeping with the baby and was breastfeeding.
“And just so she got a good night’s sleep, she would have the baby there falling asleep.
“That is a situation where you are just going to be a hindrance. You are taking up room. You can’t help.”
He adds: “So when we were building our house, Steph had just given birth to Tabs.
I failed at labour. I kind of turned into George Clooney from ER and thought, “I’m delivering this baby. I was at the business end and the midwifehad to ask me to get out of the way
David
“We were staying in Steph’s old flat while the house was being built, and Matilda had this little room.
“I had nowhere to sleep. I slept on the floor for three months. I had to spin like a dog, trying to find somewhere to sleep.
‘Christmas alone’
“But as long as your partner can get sleep, that’s the main thing. I am fine with no sleep. Steph is awful.”
Since settling down with Steph, a barrister, heartthrob David is now more likely to be found hanging out with the other dads at the school gates than strutting his stuff on the catwalk.
And it seems the menopause is a hot topic for men as well as women.
“The dads have had the [HRT] discussion at the school gates,” David, 45, tells comedian Hannah East and model and influencer Louise Boyce, who host the podcast.
“They say, ‘Get the patch’. Then one dad will go, ‘They’re very horny on the patch!’.”
David and Steph got together in 2016 and daughter Matilda was born two years later.
The model admits that when his girlfriend went into labour, he turned into George Clooney’s character Dr Doug Ross from US hospital drama, ER.
“I failed at labour,” he says. “We still argue about it. I kind of turned into George Clooney from ER and thought, ‘I’m delivering this baby’.
Of course I tried the gas and air. They told me to go and have a sleep and then Steph needed me and the midwife had to go back to Steph and say, ‘I can’t wake him up
David
“I was down at the business end. The midwife had to ask me if she could have her stool back and if I could get out of the way.”
Like most men, David could not resist having a sneaky puff of the gas and air intended to relieve labour pains — only for it to knock him out completely.
He reveals: “Of course I tried the gas and air. They told me to go and have a sleep and then Steph needed me and the midwife had to go back to Steph and say, ‘I can’t wake him up’,” he recalls.
It is all a world away from David’s globe-trotting days as a top-earning male model with an estimated £12million fortune.
After growing up in Billericay, he went on to study marketing at the University of Gloucestershire, where his flatmate entered him into a modelling competition on ITV’s This Morning without his knowledge.
He went on to win a contract with Select Model Management — and a star was born.
His now- infamous campaign for Dolce and Gabanna’s Light Blue fragrance in 2007 — which saw him squeeze into tiny white trunks to cavort on a boat with a brunette — set women’s pulses racing and launched him to stardom.
He now has more than one million followers on Instagram as well as 25million likes on TikTok, not to mention high-profile campaigns for Burberry and Hugo Boss.
After meeting Steph and becoming a dad, he cut back on the commitments that involved him take around 100 flights a year, and has recently launched his own line of underwear for his David Gandy Wellwear brand.
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David on holiday with one of his daughtersCredit: instagram/davidgandy_official
But it could have ended very differently for David — who has also had high-profile romances with singer Mollie King, musical theatre actress Samantha Barks and TV host Laura Whitmore — because he thought Steph had stood him up on their first date nine years ago.
“We met through one of my good friends,” he recalls.
“We kind of knew each other before — we only lived a mile and a half away from each other. We arranged to go for a date, but Steph has a terrible sense of direction and ended up in the wrong pub.”
He adds: “When me and Steph got together, there was a discussion, like ‘When are we having children?’.
“I said I’ve been working solidly. I didn’t take holidays. I didn’t take time off.
“I spent Christmas alone because I was so exhausted sometimes. I just want two years of us two to enjoy being together’.”
Now, having had two kids with Steph, David thinks there should be more education for men about the hormone changes women go through when they embrace parenthood.
“When babies are born, no one ever tells the husband about the hormones,” he says. “Your wife’s hormones are all over the place, before and after giving birth.
I think we are so scared to let our children even out the front door
David
“No one explains that you are probably going to be wrong about everything for the next year and to just put up with it. Just go, ‘OK darling’.”
‘Give kids freedom’
While, nowadays, parents are often super-protective and more overbearing than previous generations, David is making a conscious effort to relax when it comes to raising his daughters.
He explains: “I’m trying to tell myself not to be too protective.
“I think we are so scared to let our children even out the front door.
At nine years old, I was on a bike going through Billericay, travelling five miles out, and my parents were like, ‘It’s cool’.
“My kids are outside for 20 seconds at a supermarket and I’m panicking. I just think we need to allow our kids a bit more freedom.
“That’s advice for all of us — ‘Don’t worry, no one knows what they’re doing’. Generally, everyone turns out OK.”
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The star shot to fame wearing tiny white briefs in Dolce & Gabbana ads
But while he tries to be laid back, David, who is also an ambassador for Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, admits he is not a fan of the trend for “gentle parenting”.
He says: “I teach them, ‘You’re not having iPads. First of all, you have a conversation around the dinner table’.
“I take colouring stuff and I always make sure they’re entertained so they are not bored.
“But they are very polite. I’ve always said, ‘You don’t talk to someone like that. You don’t ask someone like that. Go and get it yourself. Go and do it yourself’.
“I got to a point with my mum and dad where they just needed to give me a look. It seems to work.
“My mum’s best threat that used to shut me up really quickly was, ‘I’m going to come and take your pants down in front of everyone and smack your bum’.
“My mum and dad never smacked me, but it was the threat of my bum being pulled out in front of everyone.”
And while his children might have excellent table manners, David jokes they treat him like a live-in chef at their home in London’s Richmond Park.
He says: “We have a pretty good rhythm going now. I do mornings — the kids are up with me.
“I do the breakfast, which they order from me.
“I am the waiter. I say, ‘What would you like? Do you want porridge today?’.
“And they say, ‘Daddy, I don’t want porridge, I want waffles. Can I have waffles with honey?’. Matilda musy think she’s at a Michelin-star restaurant.
“It’s actually not that chaotic. I put everything out in the evening as I am not a morning person.
