SINGER Rochelle Humes made jaws drop as she confessed she made more cash from being in S Club Juniors than she did in The Saturdays alongside stars Frankie Bridge and Una Healy.
The businesswoman launched her career as a singer in 2001 when she joined S Club Juniors after being selected for the band on the reality TV show S Club Search.
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Rochelle Humes confessed she made more money from S Club Juniors than in The SaturdaysCredit: Great Company with Jamie Laing / YoutubeThe Saturdays – Una Foden, Vanessa White, Frankie Bridge, Rochelle Humes and Molly King performing at Wembley Arena in 2014Credit: GettyRochelle joined S Club Juniors after auditioning on a reality showCredit: Getty
The juniors, who released their first single One Step Closer in 2002, accompanied S Club 7 on their huge tour as the supporting act.
After just three years in the girl band, Rochelle joined The Saturdays in 2008 and despite their chart topping success, the star revealed she made more money at the beginning of her career.
Speaking on the Great Company with Jamie Lang podcast, Rochelle said: “When I look back on it I made more money from S Club Juniors than I did in The Saturdays.”
Made In Chelsea star Jamie was so baffled by Rochelle’s revelation that she jokingly asked him to call Frankie Bridge, who was also in both bands, to confirm their experience.
Explaining why she thought she made more money from S Club Juniors, Rochelle said: “The music industry… the money just went out of it.
“It wasn’t the same space to be in anymore.”
The star added: “At the time your the chosen one, you never want to rock the boat because your like do you know how many girls would be whipping these extensions out ready to put them in their hair.
Rochelle joined S Club Juniors in the early noughties, when she was just 12-years-old, alongside Frankie Bridge, Aaron Renfree, Jay Asforis, Stacey Franks, Calvin Goldspink, Daisy Shelvey and Hannah Richings.
While the girl band was successful, The Saturdays were huge with 11 top 10 singles including All Fired Up and What About Us.
The 37-year-old explained that when she was part of The Saturdays she was paid a “salary” and was expected to live a certain type of lifestyle.
The singer told how when she was part of The Saturdays she was scared to ‘rock the boat’Credit: Great Company with Jamie Laing / YoutubeThe star told how most of her money came from brand deals before record labels started taking cuts of their profitCredit: Great Company with Jamie Laing / Youtube
But, most of her money actually came from brand deals and touring rather than the group’s singles.
“When someone says your record deal is X amount of money, that doesn’t mean that’s what we’re making. That means they’ll put this money into the album, pay these producers, the marketing budget,” she said.
Rochelle continued: “The tours and the brand deals was where you would make your money. The records weren’t for us. So we’d be the face of a shampoo and all have our own scent – that’s where we’d make our money.
“But then record labels changed their whole strategy…they would then also take a cut of the brand [deals], and then take a cut of the live performances. You’ve got to remember everything you earn, split that in half, basically with tax and an agent. And then there’s five of you. You’re expected to live a lifestyle that you can’t always prop up.”
During her candid interview with Jamie, Rochelle also revealed her uncle is an England footie legend.
Her uncle is none other than Paul Ince, who had 53 caps for England and played most notably for Premier League teams West Ham and Man United.
Paul was the first black player to ever captain the England team and later the first black British manager to coach in the highest tier of English football.
Stunning Rochelle has since pivoted from the music industry and has set up multiple businessesCredit: GettyPaul Ince (right) is Rochelle Humes’s famous England footie legend uncleCredit: Alamy
Noah Kahan has bravely opened up about his battle with body dysmorphia in a new Netflix documentary.
In film Out Of Body, the Stick Season singer says: “I’ve always hated the way I looked. It’s something I’ve struggled with my whole life.
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Noah Kahan has opened up about his long struggle with body dysmorphia in a candid new Netflix documentaryCredit: Getty Images – Getty
“I binge eat a lot of food when I’m feeling stressed and then I get so hateful about my body and what I look like that I don’t eat for a while and I starve myself.
“When I look in the mirror, I feel like I don’t see what my body actually looks like.”
Later in the film, which was released yesterday, he explains: “Disordered eating is something I’ve experienced in ways my whole life but in my adult life, in the last four or five years
“Sometimes I’ll see a photo and people will be like, ‘You look great,’ and I’ll be like, ‘What do you mean? I look like, 300 or 400lb.’
Other scenes reveal fame has not done him any favours mentally. He is shown in late 2024 working on new album The Great Divide, which is due out on April 24, and says: “Now my mental health has never been as low as it has been the last three months of my life.”
With another sold-out tour in June, I hope he’s got the support he needs now.
Leigh’s reddy to rock
Looking every inch the pop star, Leigh-Anne wore this red leather bra and matching hula skirt for her solo showCredit: Getty
Leigh-Anne had a famous face in the crowd for her solo show in London.
Former Little Mix bandmate Jade was spotted as Leigh-Anne took to the stage at the O2 Forum Kentish Town, proving there’s still plenty of love between the girls.
Looking every inch the pop star, the My Love singer wore this red leather bra and matching hula skirt.
And it was a family affair too, with Leigh-Anne bringing her twins on stage for an emotional moment during her song Heaven, which she wrote about them.
Opening the show, she told fans: “My solo journey has been a rollercoaster, it’s allowed me to find myself again.”
She added: “It’s not easy being an independent artist.
“It means everything that you’re here.”
The crowd lapped it up, screaming her name as she powered through tracks including No Hard Feelings – even joking: “I listen to my own music, is that OK?”
Fans lit up the room with their phone torches, while four lucky punters were pulled on stage to join the show.
With her high-energy choreography and the crowd fully behind her, Leigh-Anne proved this new chapter in her career is already hitting all the right notes.
It will end in tears, Sydney
Sydney Sweeney in the controversial scene from EuphoriaCredit: HBO Max
The HBO show returned last night and a teaser for future episodes showed Sydney wearing a nappy with her boobs on show, a dummy in her mouth and her hair in pigtails.
Her character will make adult content in the series, but fans think the creator Sam Levinson has gone too far.
One person on X called it “actually disgusting”, while another wrote: “There’s a line and Sam Levinson has severely crossed it.”
Chris gets on his soapbox
Chris Evans has been giving advice ahead of the Redbull Soapbox Race this summerCredit: Getty
Ahead of me competing in the Redbull Soapbox Race this summer, Chris Evans has some words of advice.
And, if I’m honest, myself, Virgin Radio’s Ellie Davis and Kej Kamani, are now quaking in our trainers about the prospect of racing down the hill for the event at Alexandra Palace in London on June 20, which will be broadcast on the Discovery Channel.
Speaking on his Breakfast show on Virgin Radio UK, Chris, right, said: “Full disclosure: I used to own the company that makes this TV show so I’ve known about this forever.
“We have our official Virgin Radio Soapbox. And The Sun’s Ellie, Dennie, our boss, and Kej, who runs TFI Unplugged and Ellie who runs the radio station will be in the Soapbox.
“Ally Pally is a serious hill – this is like Formula One. That is why there are hay bales – it can be more dangerous than the F1.
“A regular Redbull Soapbox race in an hour will see more issues and rebuilding of the track than an F1 race. There have been episodes where not a single soapbox gets to the bottom of the hill because they all crash and burn. Well, not burn, but you know what I mean.”
Gulp.
Precious Stones for a grand
The Rolling Stones’ ultra-limited white label single Rough And Twisted, was released under the alias The Cockroaches at the weekendCredit: Getty
The Rolling Stones have sparked a vinyl frenzy, with fans shelling out more than £1,000 for a record that originally cost just £10.07.
Their ultra-limited white label single Rough And Twisted, released under the alias The Cockroaches at the weekend, was sold in tiny numbers at select indie shops, with some stores getting just four copies.
The mystery drop, teased with cryptic QR codes and a secret website, sent demand soaring.
But it’s left plenty of die-hard fans furious after missing out.
One fan said: “Even the crazies like me left empty-handed.”
Now copies are being flipped online for eye-watering prices, sparking calls for the band to release more and “kill the black market.”
Stones fans, of all people, should know that you can’t always get what you want.
Craig loves a chuckle
Craig Revel Horwood and Paul Chuckle share a jokeCredit: Instagram
I thought Barry Chuckle had come back from the grave when I saw Craig Revel Horwood sporting this bushy moustache.
In a snap shared on Instagram, the Strictly judge posed on a balcony with late Barry’s brother Paul.
Craig, who has a surprising friendship with the Chucklevision entertainer, wrote: “What a treat to hang out with my bestie @officialpaulchuckle to film a secret project!”
One fan wrote: “You can’t ever replace Barry but that’s a cracking moustache.”
I couldn’t agree more.
FKA Twigs is in pole position
FKA Twigs wowed Coachella fans with an emotional set that saw her pole dance and break down in tears on stageCredit: GettyThe star shows off her pole skillsCredit: GettyBath-born PinkPantheress, who played in a frilly, checked bra-top, delivered one of the most talked-about sets of the festivalCredit: Getty
FKA Twigs closed weekend one of Coachella in sizzling style by performing while twirling around on a pole.
The British singer, clad in a tight black top and knee-high boots, played a 75-minute set on Sunday night and was brought to tears as she belted out her track Cellophane.
But at another point, Twigs – who won her first Grammy in February and has just completed her US tour – wielded a sword and pole danced, top right, while performing Love Crimes.
Bath-born PinkPantheress, who played in a frilly, checked bra-top, delivered one of the most talked-about sets of the festival including recent hits Stateside and Illegal.
Afterwards, she wrote on Instagram that she had “the best time ever”.
They will both be back on stage in Californianext weekend for the event’s second and final weekend.
A HOLIDAY park right on the coast has undergone a huge makeover – and has a ‘three-resorts-for-one’ offer.
Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks has revealed a £10million makeover of one of its North Devon holiday parks.
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Twitchen House Holiday Park has a new outdoor pool and waterslidesCredit: Woolacombe Bay Holiday ParkIt also has a new surfing simulatorCredit: Woolacombe Bay Holiday ParkAnd if you are staying at the park, you can also visit another two nearby
Since 2024, Twitchen House Holiday Park has been working on new facilities that are now open.
The new features include a 28C outdoor pool, stretching 18 metres long with a splashpad and a multi-lane waterslide.
The pool itself even has a lifting floor, which allows it to become a “water playground for aqua aerobics and games”.
At the splashpad, kids can enjoy running through spraying hoops and water jets.
There’s an outdoor water flume too, and the new three-lane waterslide is ideal for races.
There’s also a new Wavesurfer surfing simulator, which guests can test out their surfing skills on thanks to a constant wave flow.
The park already has an indoor pool, where families can enjoy two waterslides, as well as a toddler pool.
The all-day cafe and bar has been extended too and now has a new outdoor terrace and dog-friendly dining areas.
Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks has three holiday parks in Woolacombe, North Devon – Woolacombe Bay, Easewell Farm and Twitchen House.
And last year, new Emerald caravans were introduced at the front rows of Woolacombe Bay and Twitchen House sites.
Inside, the caravans feature full-sized baths, TVs in every bedroom and barbecues overlooking the sea on the outdoor decks.
For this year, 131 new caravans have already arrived.
At Woolacombe Bay, every caravan in the Surf Village has been replaced too.
Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks operates Easewell Farm, Twitchen House and Woolacombe Bay holiday parksCredit: Woolacombe bay
There are also five new caravans with private, outdoor hot tubs.
The four-bedroom sea view Farmhouse on the Easewell Farm site has also had a major revamp to make it the ideal accommodation for multi-generational families.
Inside, it has new furniture throughout as well as a patio that overlooks the sea and boasts a hot tub.
For those visiting any of the three holiday parks, there are a number of different activities they can book including Segway Safaris, watersports on the lake and even bushcraft classes.
For adults wanting a little R&R, there is also a spa to indulge in.
Kevin Darvill, Sales & Marketing Director for Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks said: “Demand for UK coastal holidays remains strong, especially in the West Country, and our continued investment reflects both our confidence in the market and our commitment to giving guests the very best holiday experience.
“Seeing bookings already significantly ahead for 2026 shows that customers are really responding to the improvements we’re making across our holiday parks.”
To make things even better, there is currently an offer on where visitors can access the three parks for the price of one.
A number of new lodges have also been added at the parksCredit: guy harrop
When staying at Woolacombe Bay Holiday Parks, visitors will be able to explore all three parks – Woolacombe Bay, Twitchen House and Easewell Farm.
This means three times the attractions and activities to explore.
At Woolacombe Bay Holiday Park, for example, there is a splashpad with geysers, water jets and a spraying tree.
As well as a slide from the indoor pool to the outdoor pool and a twisting waterslide, there is also a three-lane waterslide ideal for racing family members.
The Easewell Farm site just has an indoor swimming pool, which is calmer and great for learning swimmers.
Prices for the holiday parks vary depending on which site you choose, but typically cost from £50 per night.
And all are located close to Woolacombe Beach, often named one of the best beaches in the UKCredit: Alamy
Our favourite UK holiday parks
*If you click on a link in this box, we will earn affiliate revenue.
Park Holidays UK Sand le Mere, Yorkshire
This holiday park in Yorkshire is a thriving family resort, just steps from Tunstall Beach. Entertainment is what this resort does best, with costume character performances, Link-up Bingo and cabaret shows. Accommodation ranges from fully-equipped Gold Caravans to Platinum Lodges with sun decks and luxury bedding.
This beachfront resort in St Ives, Cornwall is a true beach bum’s paradise – whether you want to laze out on the sand, or take to the waves for some surfing. Activities include disc golf, a Nerf challenge and an outdoor cinema, as well as indoor activities for the colder months like karaoke, bingo and DJ sets.
This holiday park has loads of unique activities on offer, including TikTok dance classes, alpaca feeding, a pump track for BMX riding, and taking a ride on the resort’s very own miniature railway. Throw in bug hotel and den building, pond dipping, survival skills workshops and a lake for paddleboard and pedalo hire, and you’ve got yourself an action-packed park.
Parkdean Resorts Camber Sands, Sussex This beachfront resort is a classic family favourite. If you’re not up to swimming in the sea, there’s four fantastic pools here, as well as water flumes, underwater jets, inflatable jet skis and kayak races. Plus if you’ve got any little fans of Paw Patrol or Milkshake!, you’ll be glad to know there’s Milkshake! Mornings and Paw Patrol Mighty Missions to keep your tots entertained.
And all three parks are located close to Woolacombe Beach, which is often named one of the best beaches in the UK and Europe.
It also gained a TripAdvisorTravellers‘ Choice award for 2025.
Spread over three miles, the beach is loved for its golden sand and thriving surf scene – it is even a recognised World Surfing Reserve and the only one in the UK.
Part of the beach is dog-friendly year-round too, and there are many facilities for families to head to including surf and gift shops as well as a variety of pubs, cafes, bars and restaurants.
One recent visitor said on TripAdvisor: “Woolacombe is a very striking, long, long sandy beach with decent surf.
“If you want a day at the beach, it’s hard to beat.”
A US musician has revealed he’s been scammed out of his entire £300,000 retirement fund in a shocking blow.
Singer G Love revealed that he had accidentally installed some malicious software onto his computer which resulted in scammers taking all of his cash.
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Performer G Love has revealed he has fallen victim to a scamCredit: GettyHe has seen his entire retirement fund wiped outCredit: Getty
The performer took to X – formerly Twitter – to speak out on the incident that saw his entire retirement fund stolen.
He wrote: “I had a really tough day today I lost my retirement fund in a hack/Scam when I switched my @Ledger over to my new computer and by accident downloaded a malicious ledger app from the @Apple store.
“All my BTC gone in an instant.”
The singer appeared to be referring to his bitcoin investments in the tweet.
Actor Peter Capaldi is the latest big name to reject the chance to appear on the next series of Celebrity Traitors after Alison Hammond said she is just too busy
Peter Capaldi said he has his reasons for saying no(Image: (Image: BBC))
Doctor Who legend Peter Capaldi turned down Celebrity Traitors because he did not want the “level of exposure” the game of trust and treachery brings with it.
We’re getting closer to knowing who will be the next instalment of the spin-off after the success of the first series in 2025, which was filmed last April. Presenter Amol Rajan has signed up, insiders claim, but who else will star in the BBC show? Danny Dyer is another of the big names linked – but Peter won’t be pulling the cloak over his head.
The Thick Of It actor told the BBC’s Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg programme he was asked to take part in the all-star version of the reality TV show, but said no. He isn’t the only one to reject the chance after Alison Hammond confirmed she won’t be heading to the castle – and said she has also had to turn down the chance to host Strictly Come Dancing, too.
Asked why, 67-year-old Scottish actor Peter, who played the Twelfth Doctor from 2013 to 2017, said: “Because I think there’s a level of fame that… I think it propels you into the public eye, at a level of exposure that I don’t really want.
“I like doing, you know, it’s like doing my music things – it’s very difficult for people in that business to understand that you want to keep it small.”
He added: “People keep saying to me, ‘Why don’t you do a bigger tour, or ‘ Why don’t you do a bigger release, or ‘ Why don’t you promote this more? I’m not doing it to be famous.”
On his previous leading role as the Doctor, the Glasgow-born star said he had “a little regret” when asked if he left the long-running BBC sci-fi show too early. He added: “It’s great fun being Doctor Who, but the pressure of it is quite intense.
“You’re sort of on all the time and you don’t want to disappoint anyone because even though I’m not Doctor Who, if people are meeting me they’d rather meet the version of me that is Doctor Who. So you try not to let them down, right?” Yeah, because I’m quite miserable and melancholic, really.
“And that was, that was one of the big changes in my life, I guess, which happened quite late, was I’m quite miserable really, but I thought you can’t be miserable if you’re Doctor Who. You can’t because you would disappoint people so I have to become cheerful all the time.”
The first series of The Celebrity Traitors aired on the BBC last autumn, with its nail-biting finale hitting a peak of 15.4 million viewers, according to the broadcaster.
It featured a star-studded cast including actors Celia Imrie and Nick Mohammed, singer Paloma Faith, author and actor Stephen Fry, broadcaster Jonathan Ross and comedian Alan Carr, who went on to win as a Traitor.
The spin-off series, hosted by Claudia Winkleman, brought in an average audience of 14.9 million people during its run – the biggest TV audience of 2025.
Speaking about the Death in Paradise spin-off, which she has starred in since 2023, Felicity reflected: “I think the acting’s very good in it.
“I’ve acted for 43 years and I know when I’m acting with someone when I think it’s vacuous and nothing’s happening, and everyone’s really doing their job.
“It’s brilliantly directed and produced, and with Tony Jordan at the helm I just feel very, very safe.”
Tim and Simon then showed a clip of Felicity acting opposite Derry Girls star Dylan Llewellyn, who plays Constable Kelby Hartford on the BBC mystery show.
After the scene ended, the host praised Dylan as “such a lovely bloke”, prompting Felicity to reveal that a cast reunion is happening very soon.
“Yes, he is,” she agreed, “We’re all meeting up in a couple of weeks’ time, which is very nice.”
Asked where the show is based, Felicity confirmed: “In Devon. Shipton Abbott, it’s called in the programme.”
However, she then confirmed that the show is really filmed in Looe, which is located in Cornwall.
“It’s great,” she continued, “The fish mongers have gone really upmarket since we’ve been there…
“And I was going to talk to them because I thought their prices had gone up, but then I thought I’d better not start,” she quipped.
Beyond Paradise is set to return this Friday at 8pm, which is good news for fans missing Death in Paradise, which concluded its latest season two weeks ago.
Elsewhere on Sunday Brunch, Simon and Tim interviewed Keith Lemon comedian Leigh Francis and his wife Jill Carter, who admitted she was “nervous” about making her on-screen debut.
Trainspotter and social media star Francis Bourgeois was also included in today’s line-up, while Marvel actor Fra Fee and singer Jordan Rakei also appeared as guests.
Sunday Brunch airs every Sunday at 10am on Channel 4.
Kelly Somers: Well, Ollie, let’s go back to the very beginning. I want to know where your love of football came from and the first time you can remember having a ball at your feet.
Ollie Watkins: Ah, it was a long time ago now!
Kelly: You were so young that you can’t remember…
Ollie: Yeah, I was so young. My mum always used to say as soon as I could walk I was kicking bouncy balls and stuff around. Then whenever I used to go out to play in the street, I’d always come back with a football.
Kelly: What, you just nicked another kid’s football?!
Ollie: I would just find footballs around and I’d have a collection of different ones. I was playing with my brothers in the street and stuff like that. One day my friend came around and he was going to football practice later, but I didn’t have a team. He told me to come with him and then it started from there.
Kelly: So, that was your first team. What can you remember of your first session with them?
Ollie: It was just different. I was used to playing football down at the park with my friends. This is a little bit more… it was still fun, but obviously you have a little bit of coaching and stuff like that. And then I found that I was quite good at it, so just kept going.
Kelly: At what point did you realise, ‘OK, I’ve maybe got something here that the other kids haven’t got’?
Ollie: Well, to be honest, there was a player that played in my team… his dad actually ran the team as well… he was the best player. And I always just wanted to kind of get close to him and just be like him really.
At that age, I don’t think you think about it. You’re just playing football. It’s maybe when you get into academies and stuff like that then you start to think about doing it more seriously and thinking of the level you’re at. But at that time – I think that’s the fun thing about when you’re young – you just go out and play. There’s no rules. You can run everywhere. I think that’s the fun bit about football at that age.
Kelly: There’s been a lot made of your journey and it not being your typical route. It was Exeter that picked you up first, wasn’t it? But that wasn’t the easiest path straight away was it, either?
Ollie: No, I went for a trial when I was nine. I didn’t get in and then they told me to come back in six weeks, but I couldn’t concentrate. I was always looking around and stuff like that, so coming back six weeks later, I didn’t feel like I was going to improve. I needed to go back and, you know, play with my friends and just enjoy it because at that age it is very serious.
Kelly: So, you didn’t go back six weeks later? You decided not to?
Ollie: No, I went back two years later. I got in the academy and then, yeah, I was there until I left at 21 I think.
Kelly: I know it’s a long time ago now, but at nine years old that must have been your dream to play for your local team. To be told, ‘no, sorry, this isn’t right for you at the moment’ … can you remember how that felt? Or were you able to just go and enjoy football again?
Ollie: They weren’t saying: ‘Oh no, you aren’t good enough.’ It was more the fact that I couldn’t focus. Well, that’s what they told me anyway. But I just kind of saw it as… I just went and played more football and just enjoyed it. And I think I kind of saw it as a little bit of a blessing. At that age, you just want to go out and play, have that freedom to express yourself. So, that’s what I went away and did. When I then went into it, I was ready to focus more.
Kelly: And when you were at Exeter as well, you went on some loan spells. I know Weston-super-Mare was quite a big one, wasn’t it?
Ollie: Yeah, I feel like that was crucial in my development. One of my best friends at the time, Matt Jay, he made his debut at 16 I think. Obviously, I was very happy for him. He was my best friend, but I was so envious because you want that to be you.
But me going out on loan definitely helped me, because I felt like I was then… I’d experienced playing men’s football. I just learned to fight for three points. People had mortgages to pay and stuff like that and I didn’t understand that because I’d just been playing reserve-team football and playing games where I could win 5-0 or lose 5-0, it didn’t matter. Going out and playing for three points was a real learning curve for me and it definitely helped me. I learned a lot that year.
Kelly: You did, of course, make it at Exeter and then the rest is history because that’s where the rest of your journey started. But has there been a turning point along the way, where if you look back, you think, ‘OK, all of this… I wouldn’t be an England international scoring that goal at Euro 2024, playing in the Champions League… none of this would have happened without it’?
Ollie: I think there’s an element of luck. I remember the day I got into the first team at Exeter. Ryan Harley – one of the main midfielders – was ill that day. I ended up playing, scoring and then I stayed in the team and did well.
But after that, I think just working hard. And when I made the jump to Brentford, I was a little bit surprised at how well I took to it.
Kelly: Really?
Ollie: Yeah, I think because when you’re younger, you look at players that you want to play against… you search them on YouTube and then the next thing you know, football changes so quickly, you can be playing with those players that you had once watched or aspired to be like. I think just working hard and timing – everything just kind of falls into place naturally, I think.
Kelly: Is it quite hard to believe in that at times, though, because you kind of… you can control so much, but you can’t control your luck? Or can you, do you think?
Ollie: Yeah, I think it’s still something I’m coming to terms with. You can do all you can throughout the week and prepare as best as you can for a game, but sometimes things are out of your control. There are times where, you know, it’s lonely. You can’t take your mates everywhere with you and your family and the people closest to you.
You’ve got to work hard and do it yourself and persevere at the end of the day, and if you keep working hard it will pay off.
Kelly: What’s been the toughest moment?
Ollie: The toughest moment for me has probably been… throughout all my career… I would probably say this season. Just because I’ve done so well to get to where I am – getting to the Premier League… we had a bit of a dip… I scored goals. And then you set that expectation of… I think I hit a new level, scoring goals and being in Europe as well. That goal… after the Euros, I think there’s more eyes on you then.
This year, I haven’t been at the level I wanted to. So, to learn to deal with that is hard. And, look, it can always change. Football can always change. It will be a game where you can go out, score three goals and then everyone talks about you, like: ‘Ah, he’s back in form.’
I think that change of not being at the level where you want to be… I think for me this year has been difficult. But I’ve always got faith in my ability and I work so hard that I know I can get back to the level that I’ve achieved in previous seasons.
KATIE Price’s husband Lee Andrews has revealed she could soon be set for a return to the road in Dubai — after she was handed her seventh driving ban in the UK.
The former glamour model, 47, has been stopped from getting behind the wheel for six months after failing to respond to police letters about an 80mph speeding ticket.
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Katie Price’s husband Lee Andrews said she could soon be driving in Dubai despite her UK banCredit: wesleeandrews/InstagramKatie failed to respond to speeding letters after travelling at 80mph last OctoberCredit: PA
She was clocked breaking the law in a Ford Capri onthe A64 in NorthYorkshire back in October ahead of a theatre gig in Scarborough with Kerry Katona.
But today her Dubai-based husband Lee, 41, told The Sun that she will soon receive her UAE licence issued by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority.
He added that she will also be granted her Golden Visa via spousal sponsorship. The long-term residence visa allows foreign nationals to live and work in the country for a period of five or 10 years.
A key requirement of the visa application process is to provide a marriage certificate attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) in the UAE.
Katie and Lee had a symbolic ceremony in January in Dubai, before making it official in Abu Dhabi’s judicial department weeks later.
This month marks a move to make the digital links between the DVLA in the UK and the RTA stronger.
It means Katie may face new hurdles to a road return in the Middle East.
If the licence was issued prior to her ban, she could be allowed to drive in Dubai, though she will be legally required to disclose her UK ban to her insurer. Failure to do so could lead to deportation, a fine or even jail time.
However, if the application was submitted after the ban was handed down and the RTA checks the status of her foreign licenses it will be rejected.
When asked if Katie would be eligible to drive in Dubai, a spokesperson said: “I have no idea. It’s something she’ll have to look into.”
Katie has been banned from driving seven times in totalCredit: YouTube/Katie Price/Backgrid
Katie was first banned for six months in December 2010 after admitting a speeding charge. She was then disqualified for a year in 2012 after failing to respond to speeding tickets, and she received another six-month ban in February 2018 after being caught speeding.
In January 2019, she was in court again to admit driving while disqualified, leading to a three-month ban.
And just a month later she was convicted by a judge of being drunk in charge of a vehicle when it was seen by police to veer off the road and hit a grass verge.
Katie claimed that a mystery man had been at the wheel and left the scene before officers arrived, but a judge concluded her evidence was “not plausible”.
Later in 2019, she was convicted of failing to disclose the name of the driver following a car crash, which led to her receiving an 18-month road ban.
And in 2021, a judge condemned Katie for “one of the worst driving records I have ever seen”, as she was given a 16-week suspended prison sentence for drink-driving while disqualified and without insurance.
Katie had flipped her car and told police at the scene: “I took drugs, I should not be driving, I admit it all.”
The incident landed her with a two-year driving ban, as well as 100 hours of community service and up to 30 rehabilitation sessions.
In 2024, Katie was fined £880 for driving without a licence and insurance in Northamptonshire, but she was spared a ban for those offences.
Her latest conviction and driving disqualification was dealt with last week in the Single Justice Procedure, a secretive court process where magistrates deal with criminal cases behind closed doors.
YAZMIN Oukhellou has revealed her swollen and bruised face after undergoing cosmetic surgery in Turkey.
The Towie star, 31, flew over to Istanbul to undergo a chin and neck lift this week, and has given fans a post-surgery update in a new post.
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Yazmin Oukhellou has revealed her bruised and swollen face after undergoing cosmetic surgery on her face in TurkeyCredit: InstagramThe Towie star has been documenting the journey since touching down in Istanbul earlier this week
Filming herself upon waking up from the surgery, Yazmin was wearing a facial compression garment and bandages over her face.
She had purple bruising around her eyes and her face appeared swollen.
“Fresh out of surgery & I’m really trying to trust the process!” wrote Yazmin as she filmed herself.
The reality star underwent a chin, neck and temporal lift (upper face around the temples), which typically takes between two and five hours.
Yazmin told her fans she was set to go under the knife, explaining that her mum was over in Turkey to help look after her following the procedure.
“I am so nervous but I’m so excited,” said Yazmin as she spoke to the camera from her hotel room the night before the procedure.
She continued: “My mum has gone to keep me company, bless her, she’s brought me loads of snacks.
“I’m gonna be documenting my whole surgery journey as I always do, it’s not to promote it – to all the trolls that say I shouldn’t be showing it – I think I should be showing it because I show the highs, the lows.
“It’s something that I want to do for myself. I just think, life’s too short.
“If there’s something you want to do for yourself ton make yourself feel better, who cares what anyone thinks? Just do it for you.”
She has since opened up her own beauty salon in Hertford, Show Off.
She told fans she was ‘trusting the process’ after coming out of the lengthy procedure, which included a face, neck and temporal liftCredit: InstagramShe will be spending this week in Istanbul recovering from the surgery, with her mum by her sideCredit: Instagram
TUI is opening its very first hotel in Bhutan next month.
Called TUI Blue Paro Taktsang, it will be nestled in the Himalayas and in a small village in Paro which is found west of the country’s capital, Thimphu.
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TUI Blue will open its very first hotel in Bhutan next monthCredit: TUIFirst-look images reveal a huge outdoor dining terraceCredit: TUI
Inside the hotel will be 32 suites, a restaurant, two bars, a ballroom, indoor swimmingpool, spa and gym – all decorated with traditionally Bhutanese design.
Rooms will have incredible views of the mountains and nearby waterfront.
The first-look images also reveal a huge outdoor dining terrace.
The landlocked country betweenIndiaandChina is known for pretty temples, Himalayan mountains and being a very happy place to live.
The hotel is near some major landmarks like Tiger’s Nest Monastery, whose official name is Paro Taktsang.
It’s a sacred Buddhist site which is perched 900metres high on a clifftop.
For any keen visitors, it’s only accessible by foot and a round-trip hike takes between five to six hours.
Another nearby site is the Kyichu Lhakhang Temple, which is the oldest temple in Bhutan; its main chapel has roots as far back as the 7th century.
It’s also considered one of the most beautiful temples in the country.
Nearby is Ugyen Pelri Thang Palace, which is the private residence and often used by the Queen Mother.
Tourists can’t go inside, but visitors can still take in its incredible architecture and gardens from the outside.
Bhutan is nestled within the Himilayan mountainsCredit: Rui T Guedes / 500px
Check out our favourite holiday offers from On the Beach…
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Bellevue Club, Majorca
There are more pools than days of the week at the Bellevue Club in Alcudia. With 11 swimming pools, a 24-hour bar and a garden theatre offering evening entertainment, you’ll hardly want to leave this resort once you arrive. Nearby, there’s the family-friendly Alcudia Beach as well as the historic old town and promenade of Port D’Alcudia to explore.
This fun hotel has three swimming pools and several water slides to entertain the whole family. If zipping down slides wasn’t enough to tire out the children, they can enjoy the kids club and mini discos, whilst adults can unwind in the Turkish bath. Plus, the family rooms here feel more like an apartment, as they come with a handy kitchenette too – great for cooking up cheaper meal options.
This Calella hotel is the perfect base for a cheap and cheerful sun holiday, with comfy air-conditioned rooms just a few minutes’ walk from the bustling bars of Costa Brava. Make use of the hotel buffet stocked with plenty of family favourites like fresh salads, grilled meats and chips.
The Corona Roja Aparthotel sits on Gran Canaria‘s Playa del Ingles, one of the most popular beach resorts among Brits – and for good reason. Whether you’re the type to set off parasailing or prefer a sunset catamaran trip, there’s plenty on offer in this lively resort town.
Bhutan has revealed plans to build a new airportCredit: BIG-Bjarke Ingels Group
Bhutan itself is considered the ‘Land of Happiness’, but it won’t appear on any of the official Happiness Index.
Instead, Bhutan has goes by its own “Gross National Happiness Index” which focuses on factors like psychological well-being, health, education, good governance, ecology, time use, community vitality, culture and living standards.
The philosophy was introduced in the 1970s to focus on wellbeing and environmental conservation which is valued more highly than things like economic growth.
Just last year, Bhutan revealed plans for its new international airport at Gelephu complete with forests and yoga lounges.
Its initial design plans reveal a building that represents a mountain range with huge gardens and an open-air forest splitting the terminal in half.
One side will operate domestic flights, the other, international.
Across the four zones will be yoga spaces, outdoor lounges and even meditation and sound bath areas.
The hope is that it will open in 2029.
The best time to visit Bhutan is between March and May or September to December when the weather is at its most mild, which can be up to highs of 25C.
The best time of the year to avoid is June to August as this marks monsoon season when it’s humid with high rainfall.
Currently there are no direct flights between the UK and Bhutan with the average journey length taking around 15 hours with at least one stop.
A POPULAR free attraction in the UK capital is set to undergo a multi-million upgrade.
Under new plans, the free-to-visit National Gallery in London is set to undergo a major £750million project, including a new £350million wing.
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The National Gallery will be getting a new £350million wing for post-1900 artCredit: Kin Creatives
The new wing will house 20th and 21st century art, which will be a first for the gallery as it doesn’t have post-20th century art.
Currently, the gallery is home to the country’s largest collection of paintings in the Western European tradition from the 13th to the 20th century, with works including paintings by Cezanne, Monet and Van Gogh.
Named Project Domani, the expansion is set to be the biggest change for the National Gallery in two centuries.
Inside the new £350million wing visitors can expect a “simple and clean” design with the main floor featuring vaults and arches.
On the upper floor, there will be more of a geometric design.
Judges of the design competition for the project noted that the new wing’s design is “innovative and beautiful”.
They added that this means the main floor of galleries will continue the theme seen in the Sainsbury Wing and North Galleries.
But then, in comparison, the upper floor will have its own style.
The judges said: “The thoughtful design of the external spaces, with links to Leicester Square, evokes an open visitor welcome which is further enhanced using Portland stone and stepped massing, which shows sensitivity to the surrounding streets and allows natural light to be drawn into the building.”
The new wing will be built on the site of the remaining part of the National Gallery’s campus at St Vincent House, which currently houses a hotel and offices.
The museum is also hoping to become the only one in the world to display just paintings.
An opening date for the new wing is yet to be announced.
Behind the huge project is Tokyo-based architecture firm Kengo Kuma and Associates (KKAA) – who designed the V&A Dundee – alongside two other firms.
The new wing will be home to 20th and 21st century art – a first for the galleryCredit: Alamy
National Gallery Chair of Trustees and Jury Chair, John Booth said that Kengo Kuma’s proposal is “a beautiful design inside and out, sensitive to our existing Grade I exteriors and distinctive gallery spaces, the new building will also help to unite two of London’s most important outdoor spaces — Leicester and Trafalgar Squares — by creating enticing new public realm between them”.
National Gallery Director, Sir Gabriele Finaldi added: “The new building will complete the National Gallery’s campus, adding distinction to some already distinguished buildings.”
Kengo Kuma said: “It is a privilege to join the National Gallery in this historic project.
“The National Gallery’s collection is a treasure of humanity, and to be entrusted with the expansion that will hold these masterpieces is a responsibility we carry with the greatest care and humility.”
The National Gallery is one of the world’s most visited art museums, welcoming around six million visitors a year.
And it is completely free to visit – though booking is recommended in busy periods such as the school holidays.
In addition to its vast collection of art, visitors can head to the Ochre restaurant, a cafe and shops inside the museum.
ONE of the Center Parcs resorts is planning a huge overhaul of 120 holiday lodges.
The holiday park in the Lake District has submitted plans as part of its ‘second phase’ of an overhaul to improve accommodation at Whinfell Forest.
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120 lodges at Whinfell Forest will get upgrades to outside spacesCredit: Center ParcsIn some cases the patio areas will be expanded and pergolas addedCredit: Center Parcs
Center Parcs has put forward proposals to expand some of its existing accommodation with the extension of its outside patios.
Increasing the size of the outdoor areas means new pergolas will be added and means families can still enjoy the outdoors in rain, wind or shine.
The design and access statement said: “Center Parcs is a major local employer and has an obligation to continually improve its operation and building stock in order to maintain its position in the market.
“The proposed improvement to the external areas will help in the continuation of the popular holiday destination.
“The proposal will improve tourism facilities within Whinfell Forest by providing betterment of the general facilities which are paramount in maintaining Center Parcs position as a great holiday destination.”
The upgrades are part of the second phase of a ‘lodge refurbishment project’ to improve guest accommodation at Whinfell.
The first phase of the Whinfell Forest lodge refurbishment was announced in August 2025.
The Woodland Premium Lodges have fully equipped kitchen along with be a flame-effect electric fire, blackout curtains for a well-needed sleep after all the holiday park activities and a coffee machine.
The Grand Forest Lodge is “indulgent accommodation” suited more towards large groups or multi-generational families on a trip together.
There will be two, three or four-bedroom lodges available, and each will have ensuite bathrooms in every bedroom.
The standout feature of the Grand Forest Lodge is the heated outdoor pergola – so you can stay warm outdoors even in the cooler months.
It even has an indoor ‘snuggle pod’, a cosy retreat with an interactive games screen and colour-changing mood lighting.
Whinfell Forest is on the outskirts of the Lake DistrictCredit: Center Parcs
Here are more of our favourite holiday parks…
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Park Holidays UK Sand le Mere, Yorkshire
This holiday park in Yorkshire is a thriving family resort, just steps from Tunstall Beach. Entertainment is what this resort does best, with costume character performances, Link-up Bingo and cabaret shows. Accommodation ranges from fully-equipped Gold Caravans to Platinum Lodges with sun decks and luxury bedding.
This beachfront resort in St Ives, Cornwall is a true beach bum’s paradise – whether you want to laze out on the sand, or take to the waves for some surfing. Activities include disc golf, a Nerf challenge and an outdoor cinema, as well as indoor activities for the colder months like karaoke, bingo and DJ sets.
This holiday park has loads of unique activities on offer, including TikTok dance classes, alpaca feeding, a pump track for BMX riding, and taking a ride on the resort’s very own miniature railway. Throw in bug hotel and den building, pond dipping, survival skills workshops and a lake for paddleboard and pedalo hire, and you’ve got yourself an action-packed park.
Parkdean Resorts Camber Sands, Sussex This beachfront resort is a classic family favourite. If you’re not up to swimming in the sea, there’s four fantastic pools here, as well as water flumes, underwater jets, inflatable jet skis and kayak races. Plus if you’ve got any little fans of Paw Patrol or Milkshake!, you’ll be glad to know there’s Milkshake! Mornings and Paw Patrol Mighty Missions to keep your tots entertained.
JESS Impiazzi has revealed her devastating battle with lupus amid her pregnancy.
The Ex on the Beach star has opened up about the reality of having the condition as she loses her hair and suffers with skin rashes all over her body.
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Pregnant Jess Impiazzi has revealed her devastating battle with LupusCredit: InstagramThe star has shown off the confidence-knocking results of her conditionCredit: Instagram
It can lead to inflammation and even organ damage.
Opening up about her ordeal, Jess said: “These rashes were quickly appearing all over my body.
“If my joints swelling and having arthritis wasn’t bad enough, alongside other invisible symptoms, the visible ones were chipping away at my confidence.
“Then on top of all that my hair started to fall out. I’d say I lost nearly 50-60% of my hair.
“The daily stress and anxiety of everything kept my lupus active and I’ve honestly never felt so lost and I didn’t know who I was anymore.”
She added: “I was taking steroids to keep my immune system from attacking me and trying different meds to find the ones that worked for me, I’d have the odd day where I felt OK, and pushed myself to try and keep up with commitments.
“But the truth was I was in pain, I was scared and didn’t know how to carry on like this.
“I had to find a new way of living and researched everything I could on lupus, I find some really interesting people online who had got their lupus in remission so I decided to try things out.
“One of those things was getting my nervous system regulated after many years of it not being.”
Coronation Street has finally revealed what Maggie Driscoll saw on Ken Barlow’s sideboard several months ago as a major twist, and apparent retcon, took place on the ITV soap
Maggie revealed that Jim McDonald is Ben’s biological dad (Image: ITV)
Coronation Street has finally revealed what Maggie Driscoll saw in Ken Barlow’s cupboard – six moths ago. The Irish matriarch made her debut on the world’s longest-running soap towards the end of last year when she arrived to take over the famed Rovers Return pub, along with son Ben Driscoll (Aaron McCusker), daughter-in-law Eva Price (Catherine Tydlesley) and her grandchildren.
Since then, the family have not been short of drama, and they are currently in the middle of a controversial storyline which has seen teenager Will having an illicit affair with his teacher Megan Walsh, and it has been heavily implied that it has all been going on since he was underage. What’s more, viewers were subjected to a flashback episode, which was all set in Maggie’s native Ireland, where it was revealed that she had accidentally killed her husband Alan when he fell down the stairs during a row.
Fans will remember that around Halloween, she had called round to Ken Barlow’s house to borrow a bowl, and when Amy Barlow went into the cupboard to get it, she spotted something odd. Despite much speculation on social media about what Maggie had seen, viewers were left in the dark until now.
Earlier this week, Maggie was having a row with Ben about Will’s situation when she let slip that Alan was not his biological father, and in the Easter Sunday episode, she finally revealed the truth to Ben. Initially, she claimed she “couldn’t remember” the name of his actual father, but when she heard that Ben’s son Ollie was spending some alone time with Amy Barlow, she couldn’t hold the truth back any longer.
Back at number one, things had been heating up between Amy and Ollie when she banged on the door. Maggie explained that Ben’s real father was none other than Jim McDonald (Charlie Lawson), who was recently killed off off-screen. This makes Ben Steve McDonald’s brother, and it makes Amy the cousin of Ollie. Famously married to fellow soap icon Liz, it transpired that Jim had been unfaithful to Liz almost 50 years ago.
Maggie said to Steve: “As soon as I saw that picture of your dad on the sideboard. At Halloween. You couldn’t make it up, could you?” Ben raged: “You let me go to my own da’s funeral without telling me?” but Steve was still convinced that she was lying.
Maggie said: “His name was Jim. Yes, I knew. Of course I did. He was 22, from Belfast. He had a moustache. He liked a drink. I knew he had family, but he was away from home, and he was lonely. I’m not trying to justify this. I know I can’t.”
Disgusted, Amy said: “I was snogging my own cousin! It’s not good enough just being part of one messed-up family, now I’ve got to be part of two,” and Maggie apologised profusely but Steve sent them all away, as he tore up the order of service from his father’s funeral.
Reacting to the twists, one fan said: “The mother of all bombshells from Maggie. Can’t wait for the fallout from this!” Another wrote: “Poor Steve. Finding out your new friend is actually your half-brother but to find out your father had cheated then hid it your entire life is another especially when said father is dead. “
A third wrote: “No you couldn’t make it up but someone did,” and another said: “That Maggie reveal and the reactions were very underwhelming. Her just seeing something in the cupboard on Halloween was more suspenseful!”
The event could be considered a major rewrite of Coronation Street history as for much of his time on the programme, Jim was famously married to Rovers landlady Liz McDonald (Beverley Callard), and, while the marriage survived numerous infidelities on her side, it collapsed for the first time when she admitted to having had an affair with his army colleague.
Jim also endured numerous spells in prison, and a second attempt at marriage with Liz came to an end in 2005, but, as far as viewers were aware, Jim had never been unfaithful to his wife, whom he referred to as Elizabeth.
In the weeks leading up to the death of Jim, actor Charlie Lawson criticised his final storyline, which saw Jim uncharacteristically decide to con Liz out money by pretending that his girlfriend was the daughter they had lost several years earlier.
Charlie, who has also appeared in The Bill, Bread and Doctors throughout his lengthy television career and also worked extensively in theatre, recently hit out at the “weak” storyline, which was brought in when Kate Oates, who later went on to work on EastEnders, was in charge of the soap.
Charlie said: “The storyline was weak. So many people contacted me to say they hated it. I agreed to it before I even saw the script. The work was lucrative — you can’t really turn it down. Now he can’t be ruined any more. He’s out of his misery.
“I know I will watch that last scene and be able to say, ‘Well, what a load of s***e that was’. I will raise a glass to the old Jim, the one I loved and was proud of, who spoke his mind, with cracking, strong storylines in the Nineties.”
Speaking to The Sun, he added: “There are some bits I will miss about Corrie and some I won’t. But I have no regrets. That’s just life, so it is.”
OLIVIA Attwood has confirmed she’s undergone a cosmetic procedure just weeks after splitting from husband Bradley and her new budding Pete Wicks romance.
The reality star and documentary maker posted a series of serene photos to her Instagram page, showcasing her latest cosmetic treatment.
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Olivia Attwood was smiling again on Saturday in a series of serene photos showcasing her latest cosmetic treatmentCredit: instagramThe former Love Islander looked fresh-faced in the pics, showcasing a glowing complexion and a plump smileCredit: instagram“I had some lip filler for the first time in 2 years and I can’t stop pouting,” she wrote alongside the snapsCredit: instagramOlivia has faced a tricky couple of months, revealing the end of her marriage to footballer husband Bradley DackCredit: instagram/oliviameetshermatch
The former Love Islander looked fresh-faced in the pics, showcasing a glowing complexion and a plump smile – as a result of having new lip fillers.
“I had some lip filler for the first time in 2 years and I can’t stop pouting,” she wrote alongside the snaps.
Olivia has faced a tricky couple of months, revealing the end of her marriage to footballer husband Bradley Dack.
As well as the scandal surrounding her ex’s fidelity, Olivia, 34, saw her marriage exposed as a sham and swirling rumours that she is now dating long-time pal Pete Wicks.
Yet her carousel of photos showed fans that she’s still thriving, not letting the whisperings get her down.
The star was indeed seen pouting across the array of images as she stepped out in different outfits attending various events.
In some, she was seen sporting a bottle green fur jacket over checked black slacks.
Others saw her in a limo and at a party with pals, donning a plain black sweater and skinny stonewash jeans.
She snapped further images in a chocolate mini-skirt and matching blazer, a tie around her neck, blonde mane swept back in a tight, conservative ponytail.
Other images showed pet dogs, shopping trips, a pair of new high heels and behind-the-scenes snaps on set.
In a final image, Olivia was filmed stood in a lift, pouting again for the camera, showcasing her style in a black leather cropped jacket, matching shorts and knee-high boots.
Fans were pleased to see Olivia enjoying herself amid the various scandals circling her in recent times.
“Dump the boy get the filler… the only way is up baby girl,” one commented under the snaps.
Another penned: “Love to see you smiling and laughing!”
The post also appeared to confirm that Olivia has custody of the dogs she shared with Bradley, with many fans picking up on this in the comments.
“Great substitute for a man, dogs are life savers and your girls are beautiful,” one penned.
Another wrote: “My main concern has been he better not take the dogs from Liv!”
Olivia admitted this week that she is finally feeling good about herself again amid the drama, and that she’s dating again, after being seen kissing Pete Wicks.
Opening up about the recent scandals, the ITV star admitted she “covered up” much of what was going on in her marriage and even arranged therapy for her footballer ex.
In a statement posted on Instagram, Olivia said: “I have stood by Brad for the last ten years during which he lied & cheated on me multiple times. The breakdown of our relationship is because of this.
“I of course now feel like a f***ing idiot (Especially as more things come to the surface).”
This was the first time she had publicly addressed why her marriage was over, but has also suffered backlash amid a fakery row involving her TV wedding.
The Sun revealed ITV‘s “golden girl” Olivia was never legally married, yet she has insisted that she is “not pulling the wool over anyone’s eyes”.
Meanwhile, a pal of Pete and Olivia recently confirmed: “They have been spending a lot of time together and an unexpected romance has blossomed from friendship.”
The star was indeed seen pouting across the array of images as she stepped out in different outfits attending various eventsCredit: instagramPete Wicks and Olivia have sparked dating rumours in recent weeksCredit: Instagram
THE SUN’S £9.50 Hols Agony Aunt, Tracey Kennedy has tried and tested holiday parks across the UK for over 30 years.
Over her decades of staycations, Tracy’s ticked off popular holiday spots from the Isle of Wight, to North Wales, down to Land’s End in Cornwall.
Tracy Kennedy has been taking her family away on budget-friendly staycations for 30 yearsCredit: Tracy Kennedy
It’s fair to say that Tracy knows her stuff when it comes to UK holiday parks – whether it’s how to bag a bargain break, or find the best free and cheap family attractions whilst you’re away.
Over three decades of staying at holiday parks up and down the UK, Tracy has ranked her top five holiday parks based on accommodation, entertainment and location.
Plus she’s sharing all of the hacks she uses to save while she’s away.
We’ve paired each park with the cheapest deal available online, including three-night breaks for two for under £50.
5. Haven Burnham-on-Sea Holiday Village
“This holiday park is in a lovely seaside town in Somerset, and I like it so much that I’ve been back several times.
“My tip for booking a Haven holiday would be to book a Haven Hideaway package.
“These are the cheapest breaks possible, and can cost just £49pp. I paid just £120 for a full week away on a Haven Hideaway.
“However it’s worth noting that Hideaway holidays don’t come with a Play Pass as the standard breaks do, so make sure to check which activities are included at each Haven park, and which you would have to pay extra for”.
Entertainment and activities
“There’s plenty to do here without paying extra for the add-on activities. This site has a lovely arcade, which is cashless apart from the classic 2p machines.
“I wasn’t too keen on it being cashless at first, but once you’ve got your card and have topped it up with as much or little as you want, it’s easy to use.
“As for the evening entertainment, I went last year and it was really quite good. The comedy is especially great.
“With Haven parks, if you make sure to download the app, about 2 weeks before it’ll tell you which activities you can book if you have the Play Passes.
“But you dont need passes for the arcade or evening entertainment, it’s just for swimming and paid activities. They can be nice to have, but you don’t have to get them”.
Haven Burnham-on-Sea Holiday Village has an outdoor pool and caravans looking out to seaCredit: HavenKids will love the indoor splash park and water slide at Haven Burnham-on-Sea Holiday VillageCredit: Haven
Accommodation
“I stayed in a saver caravan, which is the lowest grade, but it still has heating and everything you need.
“I always go for the cheapest I can but that is still nice, and the saver option here is great if you’re looking to stay on a budget“.
Local area
“Burnham is a quiet town, so it can be quite a peaceful place to stay. There’s also a lovely beach and lighthouse in walking distance from the park, as well as a cinema. But mainly this is a great base for exploring.
“Brean is about a 10-minute drive away, and there’s loads to do there. Brean Beach is gorgeous, plus there’s a splash park, Brean Theme Park and an animal farm, so there’s loads to do.
“You’ve also got Cheddar Gorge a half-hour drive away. You can of course try loads of cheese, but there’s really fascinating caves and clifftop walks there, too.
“If you’re willing to drive a bit further, about 40 minutes, you can also visit Wells. There’s loads of medieval historic sites there, like Wells Cathedral as well as the Palace and gardens”.
Bag a cheap stay
You can book a four-night stay in a saver caravan with a Haven Hideaways deal from £49, based on two adults sharing. This deal also comes with a low-deposit option from £30.
Haven Burnham-on-Sea is only 10 minutes away from the beautiful Brean DownCredit: GettyTake a day trip from Burnham to Cheddar Gorge, just a 30-minute drive awayCredit: Getty
4. Riverside Holiday Village, Bleadon, Weston-super-Mare
“I went to this holiday park last year for my 50th, and had such a fantastic time. I have lots of memories coming here with parents, and now I get to bring my kids!
“One of the best things about this park is where it’s located. It’s less than 10 minutes from Weston-super-Mare‘s seafront”.
Entertainment and activities
“This is quite a small site, but it does have a good arcade, restaurant, and entertainment performances.
“There’s no costume characters for the kids, but if you visit in peak season, there’s a pretty packed activity schedule that keeps them busy.
“It’s a very relaxing site if you prefer a peaceful holiday. There’s a beautiful lake to walk around, and you can pop out into Weston whenever you’d like”.
Accommodation
“We stayed in a large Gold caravan, which doesn’t work out to be too expensive once you split the cost between a group of people.
“We paid £650 total, and the Gold caravans can sleep up to six people, so that works out at around £109pp – which isn’t bad at all for a full seven days during the summer holidays.
“We had wrap-around decking which is lovely to sit on and enjoy your coffee in the morning or a drink in the evening.
“I recommend going as a large group and splitting costs so you can try out the nicer accommodation. This is one of the parks where I’d say it’s worth it”.
Riverside Holiday Village is a peaceful escape in the countryside town of BleadonCredit: TripAdvisorIt’s only an 11-minute drive from Bleadon into Weston Super Mare, where there’s an exciting pierCredit: Alamy
Local area
“The surrounding area, Bleadon, is very quiet. There’s just a couple of cosy pubs.
“But if you want a proper day out, then you should drive or catch the bus into Weston-super-Mare itself.
“There’s loads of things to do in Weston. If you want to stick to free things to do, Weston Museum is a great one and has activities for kids.
“Visiting the Grand Pier is a full day out itself – there is a small charge of £2, which is the same for both adults and kids.
“There’s lots of cost-friendly places to eat on the pier, like chip shops, a Costa and a Tiffany’s.
“My favourite though is Revo Kitchen. It’s inside the old Sea Life centre and it has 360-degree views of the sea. It’s dog-friendly, and does amazing, family-friendly food.
“It’s easy to spend the whole day at just the pier. There’s a ball pit, arcade games, fun house, ghost train – loads to do.
“Obviously it can be costly, but there are great-value wristbands available for kids to go on unlimited rides.”
“The Little Kids wristband, with unlimited rides suitable for younger children, costs £15 and lasts all day. The Big Kids wristband costs £20.
“There is also an Ultimate wristband available for £30, which includes unlimited rounds of golf and go-kart races.
“You don’t have to pay the entry fee cost of £2 for those with wristbands. You can buy the wristbands for the Grand Pier ahead of time online“.
Bag a cheap stay
You can book a three-night stay at Riverside Holiday Village in a Purn Gold WF caravan from £169, based on two adults sharing. This deal also offers a low deposit option of £25.
You can book a four-night stay in a saver caravan at Martin Mere Holiday Village from £49Credit: TripAdvisorMartin Mere Holiday Village is a 10-minute drive into the popular seaside resort of BlackpoolCredit: Alamy
3. Martin Mere Holiday Village, Blackpool
“This park is around 10 minutes’ drive into Blackpool, and there is so much to do there for families.
“They have also just had a major upgrade, with a brand-new restaurant, a refreshed Show Bar, and an expanded arcade added”.
Entertainment and activities
“It’s all about the entertainment with Haven. And the best part is that most of it is free.
“There’s an outdoor pool and lazy river, and you can book inflatables for your little ones to use.
“They’ve got plenty of fun things for families with kids like a climbing wall and a giant football dartboard.
“You’ve also got Linked Bingo at 5:15pm every evening, which sometimes has massive cash prizes.
“They’re also adding four new kids shows ready for summer this year”.
Accommodation
“The caravans are spacious, clean and have everything you need. Even the saver caravans are tremendous value for what you get.
“What I like about the accommodation here is that most caravans are only a short walk to the entertainment, which is great if you stay up late”.
You could visit Blackpool Pleasure Beach, with its brand-new ride Aviktas set to open this MayCredit: SuppliedHaven Martin Mere has an outdoor splash park that can be enjoyed in the warmer monthsCredit: Refer to source
Local area
“There is absolutely loads to do in Blackpool. You can even see the tower flashing its lights at night from the park.
“Blackpool can be as cheap or expensive as you like, but I’ve been going for years and found some good ways to save money.
“One of the best-value places to go is Coral Island Arcade, which has a restaurant where kids eat free.
“Once you’re at Coral Island, make sure to pick up any free leaflets that are there. They often have vouchers inside for discounted attractions.
“We picked one up and got a free go on the camel derby – so always look out for leaflets before you book something!
“Some of my other favourite things to do are going up into the tower, where there’s an arcade, the dungeons and a circus inside the tower itself.
“Then of course you’ve got Pleasure Beach – but if you know you want to go, book ahead of time online.
“That way you can pay £30 for entry rather than £60 on the day.
“If you’re wanting to save money on ticking off the paid attractions, there’s a new card where you can do them all for a fixed price called The Blackpool Pass.”
“The Blackpool Pass starts from £35 and includes unlimited entry to eight Blackpool attractions: Madame Tussauds,SEA LIFE,Blackpool Tower Ballroom,Blackpool Tower Eye,Blackpool Tower Dungeon,Blackpool Tower Circus,Gruffalo and Friends Clubhouse and Peter Rabbit: Explore and Play.
“You can expect to save up to 70 per cent on attractions compared to booking individually.”
Bag a cheap stay
You can book a four-night stay in a saver caravan with a Haven Hideaways deal from £49, based on two adults sharing.
This deal also comes with a low-deposit option of £30.
A Platinum caravan at Lyons Robin Hood is a spacious option that comes with a balconyCredit: TripAdvisor
2. Lyons Robin Hood, Rhyl, North Wales
“This site is really up-to-date. It’s recently undergone a £1.5m makeover, with all the new developments set to be fully done in May 2026, ready for your summer holiday!
“Some of my favourite things about this park are the enthusiastic entertainment staff, as well as the food – I always really look forward to the food when holidaying here!”
Entertainment and activities
“The pool here is so good that my youngest went swimming every single day. It has a brand-new splash zone, three super slides and even a spa for the adults.
“It’s just had activities like go-karting added to the list of things to do, and there’s new sports courts and trampolines.
“Ilast went at Halloween and it was just absolutely fantastic, but the entertainment is great year-round too.
“The costume characters come out to meet the kids – all the info on who is coming out when is listed on the wall, so you can meet the characters, comedians and singers.”
Accommodation
“The standard caravans here are slightly different to other holiday parks, for example like at a Haven resort.
“Their highest-ranking option is a platinum. We’ve stayed in platinum and it’s lovely. We had a little bit of a balcony that we had our coffee and drinks on.
“I’ve stayed in three levels of accommodation here, and I liked all of them. Each caravan was clean and spacious, with multiple big bedrooms, so you can’t go wrong here no matter what your budget is.
“I usually like to bring my own food to save money, however the food here is just lovely and definitely worth the money!
“We had cod and chips (£6.95) from the on-site chip shop here and really enjoyed it – in fact, we had it twice because it was that good! Food here is also really good value for money”.
Tracy recommends a sightseeing bus trip from Rhyl to LlandudnoCredit: AlamyTracy Kennedy continues to return to Lyons Robin Hood as one of her top-rated parksCredit: Supplied
Local area
“There’s a beautiful beach just across the road from the park, just remember to bring some snacks, as there’s no cafe or shop to buy food.
“You might see seals here – we saw some on my last visit and I was so excited.
“You can see them bobbing around in the sea, it’s nice to see them out in the open compared to an aquarium.
“Rhyl is just 5 minutes away, and there’s loads to do there. Shops, a massive marine lake, and my favourite – a little train that takes you around.
“Lots of people go crabbing, too…we caught some massive ones!
“A trip into Rhyl could be a free day out if you planned for it. Pack a picnic, wander through its streets, plus there’s even a free attraction: Rhyl Museum and Arts Centre.
“The only thing you would have to pay extra for if you wanted to would be the train, which costs £4 per adult and £3 per child.”
Bag a cheap stay
You can book a three-night stay at Lyons Robin Hood in a Bronze three-bedroom caravan from £111.30, based on two adults sharing.
Lyons Robin Hood is also available at Sun Hols from £9.50, where a break for four people can cost as little as £38.
Lower Hyde has entertainment for families ranging from pool time to discos to magic actsCredit: Lower Hyde Holiday ParkLower Hyde in the Isle of Wight came out on top for Tracy’s pick of the best UK holiday parksCredit: TripAdvisor
1. Lower Hyde, Isle of Wight
“The best holiday park I’ve ever been to is Lower Hyde on the Isle of Wight – that is my firm favourite.
“I’ve returned several times because my family and I really liked it. I like everything about the park.
“There’s loads to do on site itself, it’s actually one of the only sites where we didn’t mind spending the entire day there.
“There’s plenty of nature trails around the park, and there’s also an adventure park on site.
“Lower Hyde also have a restaurant with really good pub-style food called The Barnhouse,plus they also have little food huts such as the Thunderbird Chicken shack and an ice cream parlour.
“They’ve just hada new outdoor bar open up, too.”
Entertainment and activities
“The entertainment teams are top-quality at Lower Hyde and plenty is free compared to other parks.
“I like the archery in the daytime, plus there’s a great pool to make use of, too.
“I watched some brilliant entertainment there last year.
“In the evenings, the entertainment starts off with discos and character meet and greets for the younger kids, with their own show.
“Then there’s some great bingo, followed by an adult game show.
“Later in the evening there’s more acts from visiting acts such as comedians or magicians, or a performance from the entertainment team.
“There’s then a disco until midnight, so you can stay there all night, if you fancy it.”
Accommodation
“I’ve stayed in both chalets and caravans, and the caravans are top-notch, very cosy and warm.
“The accommodation is in a really nice quiet area. There is a little bit of a hill walking down, so do let the site know if that’s an issue if you plan to visit”.
Accommodation in Lower Hyde is set in pretty woodland close to the beachCredit: Refer to sourceYou could visit the old village of Shanklin and stop by the Old Thatch Teashop for afternoon teaCredit: Getty
Local area
“The must-visit spot nearby is Shanklin. There’s lots of little artisan shops, and it’s not a far walk, about a 10-minute walk into the centre.
“If you walk further, it takes you into Shanklin Old Village. There’s a lovely little restaurant there called The Crab, with beautiful seafood.
“There is also the famous old thatched cottage from all the postcards. Not only is it lovely to look at, but it does afternoon tea inside (from £7.95).
“There’s also Shanklin Chine, a wooded coastal ravine that is the oldest attraction on the island.
“If you wanted to visit, then you can loop right down to the beach afterwards and make your way back up – that’s the perfect day out.
“Some of my favourite things to do in the area are keep an eye out for red squirrels on nature walks, and go stargazing at night – the Isle of Wight has clear skies where you can see the stars”.
Bag a cheap stay
You can book a three-night stay at Parkdean Lower Hyde in a Bronze three-bedroom caravan from £99, based on two adults sharing.
Parkdean Lower Hyde is also available at Sun Hols from £9.50, where a break for four people can cost as little as £38.
How Tracy saves extra on her holidays
As ouur Hols From £9.50 Agony Aunt, Tracy Kennedy has several tips and tricks up her sleeve when it comes to saving money on your staycations.
Here is exactly what Tracy does to prepare ahead of time and save on her holidays, as well as her top tips for saving whilst you’re away.
She told us: “One of the most cost effective things you can do is cook your own meals.
“I’d make a note of some easy, cost-effective meals that are quick to make so you can get it done and get out and enjoy your holiday.
“I like to pack an essentials box of non-perishable food bits with me, like packets of rice, pasta, and tinned food – just make sure you don’t forget to bring a tin opener, too.
“I also bring a small amount of washing up liquid and cleaning products in little travel bottles so we don’t have to buy full-sized ones. This really helps with the shopping, especially if you’re on a budget.
“Then when you do go shopping, all you have to do is buy the fresh stuff like bread, milk and butter.
“I like to slowly buy bits to add to my box in the months before my holiday, as it spreads the cost out and saves you spending too much in the expensive on-site supermarkets when you arrive.
Tracy and her daughter Chloe enjoy packing up a picnic and visiting local historic attractionsCredit: Tracy Kennedy
“Once you’re prepared with food and cleaning supplies, it’s time to start thinking ahead on how to save on attractions.
“Before I go anywhere, I make sure to Google everything there is to do nearby. Especially for days out. See if there are any two for one ticket offers at local attractions, or even places that are free to visit.
“Especially during holidays like Easter, as nearby attractions will often have free events for kids like Easter egg hunts.
“When I visited Prestatyn in North Wales, I did my research ahead of time and found free pottery classes for kids, so we spent an afternoon doing that.
“Also check the National Trust website as well as English Heritage, because sometimes they offer free days out, too. Also check Sun Superdays and Sun Club offers, too!
“If you’re staying at a seaside resort, you can easily spend an entire day out on the coast for free. Check which dates you are there have good weather, and plan to pack a picnic, walk along the promenade, go for a swim.
“Sometimes there will be free children’s Punch and Judy shows, or local festivals – always Google the area and search on local Facebook groups in case there are events whilst you’re there.
“If you’re going as a couple or friends, it can be nice to explore local towns with cheap public transport.
My friend and I visited Lyons Robin Hood last year, and planned to go to Llandudno.
“We bought a £6.50 day saver ticket, jumped on a bus with Llandudno as the final stop and sat on the top deck at the front, and the views we had were absolutely amazing.”
Visit Newquay in Cornwall for a free day out of beautiful beaches and scenic filming locationsCredit: Alamy
“You can get family saver tickets too if there are more of you, then you can go out for the day, get a great view of the local towns and all you have to buy is the bus ticket. It’s a nice, cheap day out for all of the family.
“Similarly, I planned a cheap day out at the coast a few years ago in Newquay, Cornwall.
“We visited all the local beaches, walked to Lands End, and I planned a walk past the hotel where the Roald Dahl film The Witches was made.
“We also drove out to Port Isaac, and walked around where Doc Martin was filmed. All you have to do in these places is pay for is parking and bring your own food.
Then you can just walk around and see all of these really cool filming locations, and that costs you nothing!
“Definitely research the area before you go to see if any movies or TV shows were filmed there”.
Read more of our Hols From £9.50 Agony Aunt’s holiday park tips
Tracy Kennedy is our Hols from £9.50 Agony Aunt, and has plenty more tips and advice when it comes to UK holiday parks…
Steps singer Lee Latchford-Evans has revealed his wife has given birth to a second childCredit: InstagramIt is the second child for the coupleCredit: InstagramLee confirmed the news on Instagram todayCredit: Instagram
Taking to Instagram, Lee, 51, tagged his wife, Kerry Lucy, as he shared a snap of himself walking out of the hospital and carrying the newborn in a baby travel seat.
Lee captioned the snap: “Here we go again!”
He added both a blue and purple love heart as to keep his fans guessing over the gender of the newborn.
Kerry later re-shared the post to her own Instagram story.
The couple were immediately met with well-wishes from fans as one penned: “Oh this is wonderful news!! Congratulations!! X.”
With another writing: “Congratulations on your baby news.”
Lee’s Steps bandmate, Faye Tozer, also commented to say: “Bursting with joy for you all! Can’t wait to meet little one.”
It is the second baby for married couple Lee and Kerry.
Leeand Kerry-Lucy welcomed their first son Leo in July 2021.
The couple, who have been together since 2007, had previously suffered a devastating miscarriage.
In an interview with the Daily Mail, Lee opened up on how he and Kerry went through a period of time where they felt “resentment” towards their friends who were expecting or already had babies.
“We’ve wanted a baby for so long. We did start thinking, “Why isn’t this working for us? What’s wrong with us?”
“You doubt each other slightly, but luckily we have a very strong relationship.
“We went through a time where all of our friends were pregnant and people were always walking past us with prams and I guess we hated that and had a bit of resentment towards them, which I know we shouldn’t have.
DELTA Goodrem’s first album in half a decade is just around the corner.
The Australian singer, 41, has opened up to The Sun about the project – admitting fans won’t have long to wait.
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Delta Goodrem has revealed that she has just finished recording her first album in five yearsCredit: Shutterstock EditorialDelta performed a surprise pop-up gig in Camden to warm up for her upcoming Eurovision appearanceCredit: AP
Chatting ahead of a surprise pop set in Camden, London with Australian chocolatey biscuit Tim Tam, Delta said: “I have finished the new album.
“When Eurovision came up I was in the studio already as it was naturally time to create the new album.
“I am doing a new video next week when I am back in Aus again for the next song.
“That will be straight out the gate and the new album will be there straight away.”
Delta said: “This is, literally verbatim, all your fault. It is all on you — Bizarre started this.
“Your article went back to the Aussies who were like, ‘Do you want to do this?’ So thank you. I have a big job to do.”
Delta performed her Eurovision track Eclipse for the first time in the UKCredit: AP
Delta will head to Vienna this May to compete with her song Eclipse and it ticks every box, with an infectiously camp chorus and a complex piano bridge.
A beaming Delta explained: “From your article, people started reaching out.
“Then one of the songwriters, Jonas Myrin, who I wrote the song with, took a screengrab of the article and sent it to me saying, ‘Delta, if you ever go to Eurovision, I want to write the song with you’.
“He’s in Sweden. Sure enough he flew to Australia when I said I was doing it.
“Even the first question I got asked when doing my first Australian interview was, ‘We heard it all started from an article from the UK,’ and yes, it did.”
It’s been three years since Australia last qualified for the live final, which adds to the pressure on Delta, who has sold eight million records worldwide.
Delta added: “Of course I am nervous, but it’s so joyous and I am so excited to be a part of it.”
Delta, pictured with Bizarre’s Jack Hardwick, says her interview with The Sun last year sparked her Eurovision callCredit: Bizarre Team
ARLO PARKS’ third album is a reset, inspired by the nightlife, freedom and spontaneity she missed out on when she broke through as a teenager.
For Ambiguous Desire, the London-born singer-songwriter wanted to escape from way she had created songs in the past.
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Using voicenotes, journal entries and memories from nights out, Mercury Prize winner Arlo Park’s intimate album Ambiguous Desire is rooted in storytellingCredit: SullmanArlo feels she’s matured as an artistCredit: Sullman
Arlo, 25, says: “I wanted this to be from ground zero and exactly how I feel now, while I’m really living.
“When I got to the end of the cycle for my second record, My Soft Machine, I was like, ‘OK, I want to see what it’s like when I DECIDE the path of my days’.
“I wanted to spend more time in nocturnal spaces, making friends with DJs, club organisers and people in different collectives, and getting inspired by exploring the subcultures and the history and the architecture of those spaces. That’s what was fascinating.”
Using voicenotes, journal entries and memories from nights out, the Mercury Prize winner’s intimate album is rooted in storytelling.
She says: “For this record, my mantra was to write it exactly how it felt.
“In the past, I was focused on making things as beautiful and poetic as possible, but this time I stripped it right back to the lean truth of it, and that felt more authentic.
“I also wanted to bring in those references exactly as I heard them, without softening the edges or maybe adding guitars to bring it into the indie world.
“I wanted it to be inspired by house and garage, the music I’ve been loving. It was just about being true to myself.”
This raw approach to songwriting runs through 12-track Ambiguous Desire.
Arlo, real name Anais Marinho, says: “I wanted to make the music feel exciting and dynamic, so the song Jetta is just a voicenote in an Uber with my friends from one of those nights.
“It’s the sound and the stories of people. Even the vinyl cover and the inserts are photos I took of my friends on nights out.”
I chat to Arlo at her London record label office the day before she flies back to LA, which has been her home for the past four years.
Arlo, who won the Brit Breakthrough Artist Award in 2021, following the success of her debut album Collapsed In Sunbeams, says: “LA does feel like home, but London will always BE home.
“When I moved to LA, I was coming into myself as an artist, so I see it as the place where I built my community and grew into my confidence. But London is where I grew up, where my roots are, where I wrote my first word and heard my first song.”
While London holds emotional ties — Arlo has been staying with friends and family while in the capital — LA has provided the creative community and space to push her sound.
She says: “It’s the place where I met a lot of the people that I make music with. And there’s something about the pace of life there, the nature and the sunshine that gives me this sense of peace, where I can just sit and write.
“My main collaborator, Baird, lives there and we made the whole record in the space he shares with his brother.
“It’s like a living-room studio with pianos, acrylic paints, sewing machines — it’s an amazing creative hub. The place has been really inspiring for me and given me the peace to experiment.”
Club culture became both creative research and a release from everyday worries.
She says: “In New York, we were going to clubs like Nowadays and Basement, which is more in the techno world, and then in LA there are nights like Midnight Lovers.
“The scene there feels much more DIY, more warehouses than big institutions like London’s Fabric.
“It was nice to have that as part of our week, like knowing on a Saturday we’d go out and experience it.
“And I love living in LA because so many artists pass through, so you can catch shows all the time. People like Jamie xx in those spaces were amazing.”
The euphoric dancefloor-inspired Heaven was the first song that Parks wrote and knew she was on to something special.
She recalls: “I’d been out with my friend Kelly [DJ Kelly Lee Owens], who was supporting Caribou and, the night after, I’d written all of these little fragments in my journal, like my friend wearing pink Adidas shoes. That’s in the song, which came together exactly like the night had felt.
“I was able to distil that experience into a song. It felt very cinematic.”
Clubbing helped Arlo reconsider how songwriting can be a collective experience rather than just a personal one.
That instinct carries into the brilliant 2Sided, the first track released from the album, which describes the heat and chaos of a night out with friends at a club.
She says: “It felt like the right song to start this era, and it came about really naturally.
“I felt it when I made it, and also a lot of my friends — my partner, everyone in my life — were like, ‘That’s the one’.”
Her other standout tracks explore different themes.
The dreamy Beams includes the line “I know it’s not a way to treat people you love”, and Parks says: “I think that sentiment is really simple.
Clubbing helped Arlo reconsider how songwriting can be a collective experience rather than just a personal oneCredit: Joshua GordonThe singer cancelled part of her 2022 US tour due to mental health struggles and has since learned to pace herselfCredit: SullmanArlo Parks at the AIM Independent Music Awards in 2020Credit: Rex Features
“There’s a moment where you’re in a situation or a relationship and you’ve become used to being treated a certain way and then you realise, ‘Wait, that’s not actually how you treat people. You should be softer, kinder’.
“It’s about that realisation of what you actually deserve.”
Luck Of Life is another brilliant track, which explores grief. Arlo says: “That started just me on my computer at the kitchen table.
“It’s about loss, something we’ve all experienced whether it’s someone passing away or a break-up, but the impact those people had on our lives and, hopefully, bringing comfort to people who are hurting.”
On Senses, a collaboration with Sampha, she says: “It’s soothing. I think a lot of that comes from Sampha, as he’s just such a soulful person.
“He’s always tried out lots of different genres in his career, which is really inspiring to me.”
For her forthcoming live shows in the UK, US and Europe, Arlo has made some changes.
She says: “It makes sense to shift the set-up as well for these shows. For a long time, it’s been kind of indie — I had a guitar band — but I want to bring the samplers and the drum machines in.
“I’ve been inspired by how Massive Attack are touring now and bringing those Nineties sounds into more contemporary spaces.
“With the smaller shows we did at the end of last year, I had this idea of a light box above with a blue wash, and the stage being in the round with all my samplers and equipment in the middle.
“I wanted to feel like those nights. Even the imagery came from that.
“We went back to some of those clubs and did this kind of guerilla-style photography with my friends.
“It was about staying true to what really happened and trying to recapture that.”
In 2022, Arlo cancelled some US tour dates due to “debilitating” mental health issues. She has since learned to slow down to avoid another burnout.
She says: “Music is what I love most in the world, so if I ever feel anything negative, I know it’s because I’m feeling overworked, not because of the music itself.
“It’s my passion, it’s very much at the centre of who I am.” It is why she also took her time making Ambiguous Desire.
She says: “I didn’t really want it to be this sprint where I would then have a crash, I want to do this for the rest of my life.”
Arlo, who became a Unicef UK Ambassador in 2024, to advocate for child mental health, adds: “I’ve always wanted to be a career artist and be making music forever. I knew that I had to pace myself a bit. And, looking back, I’ve had some amazing times.
“Thinking back to Glastonbury and winning the Mercury Album Of The Year [for Collapsed In Sunbeams] as well, I couldn’t believe it.
“There’s something really specific about the Mercury because it’s just one winner and it was at the Hammersmith Apollo, which I used to cycle past on the way to school, which made it surreal.”
Parks has previously been hailed a “voice of her generation”, but that must come with pressure.
She says: “I felt like I was speaking to collective experiences we were going through, rather than being some kind of spokesperson. I never really saw myself as that, so I didn’t feel pressure to be a certain way.
“I was just telling stories about what I was seeing and living, and that happened to connect with teenagers at that time.
“But, anyway, my fan base is broad — I love it when I see whole families at a gig and I’ve seen grandparents with grandkids as well as groups of friends. It really is a bit of everything. And I love that. That makes me feel really happy.”
Ambiguous Desire concludes with track Floette, which she describes as “a note of hope”.
Arlo says: “I wanted to embrace the fact that change is inevitable and part of life, and we’re all growing and trying our best.
“ ‘We’re blossoming’ as it says in that song.
“Looking at myself, I’m more confident and I feel happier than ever.
Parks has previously been hailed a ‘voice of her generation’Credit: SullmanArlo says any negative feelings come from being overworked — not from her love of musicCredit: Sullman
“I’ve made something I’m really proud of, which colours the lens that I’m looking at things through.
“It’s the start of something new, and in the future, I’d love to write a book and a screenplay and be part of a soundtrack for a film.
“It’s like I’m coming of age. Maybe it’s just growing up.
“While I’m proud of the music that I made before, this feels a little bit more different.
“I feel like I’ve finally arrived, after years of making music. I’ve found the confidence to step away and do things my way, take a risk and witness it pay off.
HOLIDAYMAKERS could get stuck abroad this summer as up to 10 per cent of flights face cancellation if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary warned.
And the budget airline kingpin said that holidaymakers should book as soon as possible to avoid paying far higher prices.
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The fresh warning comes as family’s look ahead to the summer holsCredit: GettyIf the new war in the Middle East continues, holidaymakers could face serious disruptionCredit: Getty
The price of jet fuel has skyrocketed since the outbreak of the US-Israeli war with Iran, which has left the vital shipping route of the Strait of Hormuz blocked.
Speaking to ITV News, the airline chief revealed that between five and 10 per cent of flights in May, June and July could be cancelled if the Strait remains closed.
The Ryanair chief explained: “We have aircraft that are based at 95 airports across Europe.
“And we’ll have to cancel routes at whichever airport where the fuel company advises us they’re short of jet fuel at, say, Malaga Airport or Athens Airport.
“It’ll be those kind of decisions. And we’ll get very little notice – we’ll be told, I think, within five or seven days.
“So we will then be looking around and we will be trying to ground one or two aircraft and minimise inconvenience for customers. But it’s going to be difficult, it’s going to be challenging.”
O’Leary admitted that some holidaymakers may get stuck abroad due to flight cancellations, but noted that airlines have a responsibility to get you home.
He said: “Now, you won’t get compensation because it’s clearly beyond the airline’s control, but we will – and in Ryanair’s case we have lots of flights on a daily basis – we will re-accommodate you and get you back.
“You might be stuck for a day or two, but if you’re staying within Europe, you should be reasonably confident.”
Asked if it would be a “gamble” to book a summer holiday, O’Leary admitted “life is a gamble”.
He continued: “I think we’re looking at the risk of five or 10 per cent of cancellations in June or July, but 90 to 95 percent of flights will still operate.
“So, I think you’re really not taking much of a gamble. I would be much more concerned if you delay your booking, that actually you and your family will be paying much higher prices if you get to May, June, or July.”
The blame for any cancellations should be laid at the feet of the US President, not the airlines, the Irish airline boss added.
He added: “There doesn’t seem to be any exit plan at all. But we are where we are, blaming Trump is not going to get us anywhere.”
O’Leary said that this would be an “unknown scenario” for the airline industry and that “the sooner this war is over, the better”.
The new comments from the airline boss come after he said yesterday that jet fuel supplies could be disrupted as soon as May due to the new crisis in the Middle East.
Speaking toSky News, the airline chief revealed that whileRyanairis “reasonably well hedged” on 80 per cent of its fuel, the company is being forced to shell out nearly double for the remaining 20 per cent.
O’Leary confirmed the airline is paying around $150 (€130) a barrel for the unhedged portion of its supplies.
A MAJOR capital city in Africa has revealed its huge new terminal that is about to open – and you can even fly there with Ryanair.
The expansion or Rabat-Sale Airport comes in time for the 2030 FIFA World Cup which will have games hosted in Morocco.
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Rabat-Sale is about to open its expanded terminal for the first timeCredit: ALA CONCEPT architectsThe airport serves the country’s capital – the coastal city of RabatCredit: Alamy
Rabat, a coastal city, is close to finishing the expansion of its terminal that will quadruple the amount of passengers.
It’s part of Morocco’s investment of $2.8 billion (£2.1billion) in its airports to double capacity from38million to 80million passengers each year by 2030.
Rabat-Sale Airport’s annual capacity alone will go from around 1.5million passengers to 5million.
The whole terminal will be 69,000 square metres and have state-of-the-art facilities – like six telescopic boarding bridges.
It will have upgraded shops and eating areas, additional aircraft parking positions, and a two-level parking with 1,300 spaces.
The terminal was expected to open years ago, but was subject to delays.
Brits will get to see the upgraded terminal if they fly there with Ryanair as the airline is opening a new base in Rabat in April 2026 and will station two aircraft there.
The service will include a total of 20 routes for the 2026 summer season.
There are direct flights from both London Stansted and Manchester with Ryanair to Rabat from as little as £16.
The expansion has been put in place to take additional passengers in time for the World Cup in four years’ time.
The airport is are five miles outside of Rabat56 miles away from Casablanca – which city’s airport is also getting an upgrade.
The Mohammed V Airport in Casablanca, Morocco is expanding its airport with a new terminal which will be able to handle up to 20million passengers a year.
The new terminal will be in the shape of an ‘H’ and is scheduled to be operational by 2029.
It will have three levels with shops, green spaces, an airport hotel, and a 3,700 metre runway.
Other airports around the country getting expansions and upgrades are in Marrakech, Agadir, Tangier and Fez.
Other airports are also undergoing upgrades – like CasablancaCredit: ALA CONCEPT architects and RSHP architects
EXCLUSIVE: I Love LA has landed in the UK with the launch of HBO Max and it features the daughter of a Hollywood star.
21:56, 01 Apr 2026Updated 21:56, 01 Apr 2026
I Love LA is now available to watch on HBO Max(Image: HBO MAX)
An I Love LA actress has shared the unexpected familial link her father has with one of her co-stars.
HBO Max has finally made its way to the UK, dropping an abundance of hit shows, including I Love LA, a sitcom about Maia (played by Rachel Sennott) whose life becomes chaotic with the return of her influencer friend Tallulah (Odessa A’zion).
They are joined by other stars such as Jordan Firstman, Gossip Girl’s Leighton Meester, as well as actress True Whitaker as Maia and Tullulah’s close friend Alani Marcus.
Film buffs may best recognise Whitaker though as the youngest daughter of actor Forest Whitaker, famed for movies such as The Last King of Scotland, The Butler and Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.
But it wasn’t until True got to the set of I Love LA that she discovered that her dad was already very well acquainted with one of her co-stars.
Speaking to Reach Plc, Whitaker explained: “My dad in the show, Keith David, is a friend of my dad’s.
“When I was on set shooting the last episode, I Facetimed my dad being like ‘Hey, do you know this guy? This is my dad.’
“And he [Forest Whitaker] was like ‘Keith?!’ and Keith was like ‘Forest!’
“And apparently my dad is the reason Keith moved to LA. They did Platoon together when they were in their 20s so it was kind of cute to see them reminisce.”
Also starring actors William Dafoe and Charlie Sheen, 1980s film Platoon followed the story of a young American volunteer as he deals with the horrors of warfare in Vietnam.
While Whitaker was behind the role of supporting character Big Harold, actor Keither David played veteran soldier King.
True also shared her famous father’s pride at her landing a major role in I Love LA after first featuring in his drama Godfather of Harlem.
She explained: “He’s extremely proud of me. Even his assistant pulled me aside and was talking to me and got emotional and was like ‘you have no idea.’
“My dad apparently had just been gloating to everybody and was stoked to see me in this light.
“And for me to be able to use my comedic skills, because obviously in the house I’m annoying and loud and funny but now I can actually utilise it.”