Veronique D
SCARLETT Moffatt has shared some adorable new photos of her son Jude meeting her newborn for the first time.
The star and her partner Scott Dobinson welcomed their second child – son Clark – earlier this week.
In the new photos, Scarlett is sitting up in her hospital bed surrounded by her expanded little family.
Clark is laying on one of Scarlett’s legs wearing a small cream coloured baby suit, while Jude is sitting between Scarlett’s legs.
Jude smiles widely at his little brother, who is partly resting on his lap.
Proud dad Scott is beaming by the bedside while the sweet moment unfolds, taking it all in.
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Scarlett gushed in the post’s caption on Instagram: “The moment Jude met Clark.
“Watching the boy who first made me a mammy become a big brother is a moment I’ll treasure forever.
“And judging by the last slide, Clark did very well with his choice of Transformer toy for his big brother.”
Announcing news of the birth on October 9, Scarlett shared online: “Our beautiful boy is here! Clark Xander Dobinson.
“Arriving a little earlier than expected and not quite as straightforward as planned, our little family of four was made complete on Monday.
“Our hearts have never been so full, and I’d do it all again for you, Clark.”
The I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! star announced that she was expecting baby number two back in April by showing her fans and followers snaps of her baby scan in a short video.
In the clip, the expectant mum’s son Jude could be heard talking about being a “big brother“.
Scarlett beamed as she held up a pregnancy scan and posed alongside Scott.
She captioned her sweet reveal: “We honestly can’t believe we’re writing this…
“After everything, we feel unbelievably lucky to be able to say… our family is growing.
“One little miracle gave us Jude, and now he’s going to be a big brother.
“And if there’s one thing we know for certain, it’s that he is going to be the most amazing big brother.
“We are so grateful, so excited, and still a little bit in shock…
“Our hearts are fuller than we ever thought possible.”
Actor Chad Lowe returned to Instagram on Thursday for the first time following the Sept. 29 death of his 13-year-old daughter Fiona.
The actor shared a spiritual message from author and psychologist Gerry Hussey through Instagram Stories.
“When you ask yourself the deeper, bigger questions,” Hussey said on Olivia Hunt’s podcast “On Healing” after being asked about God, “and you move beyond the human existence — as through meditation or something — as you experience transcendental experience, [you find] we are connected to everything that is.
“And there’s nothing there, but peace and love,” he continued. “When we die. Where do we go? We return to a state of peace and love.”
Fiona’s manner of death was ruled a suicide by the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner in a report released Oct. 2. She died in a hospital.
“We are deeply heartbroken by the loss of our beloved Fiona,” Lowe, the Emmy-winning star of “Life Goes On,” and his family said in a Sept. 29 statement announcing Fiona’s death.
Fiona was the second of Lowe and his wife Kim Painter’s three daughters. The couple also shares Mabel, 17, and Nixie, 10.
Mabel shared an emotional post about her sister on Oct. 3.
“I love you so much fiona,” Mabel wrote in a post containing photos of the sisters. “i wish your short time here was easier and i hope your mind is at ease now. I will honor you forever and keep your memory alive. I love you, i hope you knew just how much.”
Lowe is the brother of “St. Elmo’s Fire” actor Rob Lowe, whose youngest son paid tribute to his late cousin after her death. He posted Emily Dickinson’s poem “Hope Is the Thing With Feathers,” according to an Oct. 5 Page Six report.
“HOPE is the thing with feathers that perches in the soul, and sings the tune without the words, and never stops at all,” John Owen Lowe shared in an Instagram Stories post. “And sweetest in the gale is heard; and sore must be the storm that could abash the little bird that kept so many warm.”
Chad and Rob’s father, Chuck, shared a photo of his granddaughter on Instagram after her death was announced, per People, with the caption, “Rest in peace sweet Fiona.”
15:19, 06 Oct 2026Updated 07:25, 10 Oct 2026
The X Factor winner gives her verdict on the show’s reported return(Image: Getty Images)
Eight years after The X Factor disappeared from our screens, it’s rumoured to be making a comeback with a whole new look and a fresh judging panel.
And one of the biggest stars to have come out of the prime-time talent show, Alexandra Burke, admits she’s “very excited” at the prospect of seeing it back on television.
Alexandra, who shot to fame in 2008 as the show’s fifth winner, says, “The X Factor gave me a career. I don’t know what format it’s going to come back in, what it’s going to look like, but we all know that Simon Cowell is a genius at what he does. So all I can do is sit here and wish him the best with it.”
The show hit pause in 2018 due to declining viewing figures, but although it has been criticised by some former contestants, Alexandra – who duetted with Beyoncé during her unforgettable final – has nothing but glowing memories.
“I’ve only ever had good things to say because I had a great experience,” she says. “It gave me a massive career and I’m still here working, 18 years later.”
As for whether she’s still in touch with Simon, she says, “I saw him in April at Britain’s Got Talent when I performed with the cast of The Chaka Khan Musical. It was lovely to see him, Amanda [Holden], Alesha [Dixon] and KSI. It was wonderful to catch up with everyone.”
She previously admitted that Cheryl [Tweedy], her mentor during her time on the show, didn’t reply to texts following her win, but there are clearly no hard feelings. “We met at a birthday party a couple of years ago and she was on great form,” Alexandra says. “She’s always really lovely when I see her, always so kind.”
So what advice would Alexandra give to any future contestants? “Stay true to who you are, because on these shows it’s easy to get wrapped up in it all,” she says. “And work hard – nothing’s ever handed to you. The hard work starts when the show ends.”
Alexandra’s own career has flourished since her time on the show. She took part in Strictly Come Dancing in 2017, finishing in joint second place with her professional dance partner Gorka Márquez, and has gone on to become one of the West End’s most prolific leading ladies, with starring roles in The Bodyguard and Chicago.
Right now, she’s catching a breath after finishing an epic run of I’m Every Woman – The Chaka Khan Musical in London, playing the iconic singer herself. But laughing, the star – who has two young sons with her Irish fiancé, former professional footballer Darren Randolph – admits her home life alone is enough to keep her on her toes.
“It’s chaos, but it’s a house full of love,” she says. “We have six dogs as well, by the way. My boys are amazing. They’re two very different personalities, and full of energy.”
Stunned by how fast time is whizzing by, she tells us she’s trying her best to live in the moment. “Time just goes so quickly. I remember when my first son was born – now he’s four and in reception, I don’t know where those four years have gone,” she says. “I know that I’ve tried my best to juggle both kids, bringing them to work, and it’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done. But I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Alexandra says she and Darren make a brilliant team. She has a soft spot for the Irish and dubs them “the friendliest people on the planet”. And if work didn’t keep her in London, she’d be tempted to move to the Emerald Isle.
“I love it there,” she says. “Darren goes back weekly. My boys have only been twice, but we’re planning more trips now they’re older.”
The fitness-loving couple, who have already ticked off two London Marathons together, are set to begin training for their third – and fitness clearly runs in the family as Alexandra’s eldest, at just four years old, comes to the gym with her, lifting his own little weights.
She says having children has reminded her that life is for living. “I look at them and think, ‘Gosh, I need to relax a bit sometimes.’ They have such a zest for life.”
Sadly, she lost her own mum, Melissa Bell, who was the lead singer of London band Soul II Soul, in 2017 from kidney failure, caused by complications from diabetes. “It’s such a hard thing to go through, but I have a brilliant network around me,” she says. “And Mum’s always there, you know. I feel her around me all the time.”
Alexandra has no doubt Melissa would have been a doting grandma. “Oh, 100%. She’d have taken the kids from me daily, and said, ‘Just go to work.’ She did that with my nieces and nephews.”
Almost 10 years on, she says the grief still comes in waves, but she has learned to live with it. “It’s the price we pay for love, isn’t it?” she says softly.
Looking to the future, Alexandra has plenty to be thankful for. As well as her family, she’s back in the studio recording new music, which she hopes to release next year. And she’s just landed an exciting film role – for now, a top secret.
She won Best Supporting Actress in a TV Series at the National Film Awards last year, for playing teacher Helen Jones in the Paramount+ crime series Curfew, but while she wants to get stuck into more TV work, music will always be her “first love”.
The star recently appeared on a special edition of Katherine Ryan’s podcast What’s My Age Again?, in conjunction with tombola and Breast Cancer Now, to get women talking about their breasts more. Despite the topic, she had a hoot with the comedian.
“She’s a gem; she’s so funny,” says Alexandra. “The conversation was really warm. It was actually comfortable for me to have, simply because it just meant a lot.”
Alexandra, who lost her beloved aunt Jean to breast cancer in 2009 and had her own scare some years back, is keen to help change the narrative. As tombola’s research reveals, 66% of women have never asked a friend if she’s checked her breasts, though 58% know someone who’s been diagnosed with breast cancer.
“That hit home for me. I asked myself, ‘When was the last time I asked my girlfriends, my sister or my aunties if they have checked their breasts?’ Why don’t we do that? It needs to become a normal thing, not a taboo question. Who knows, just a quick call asking your friend to check themselves could save their lives.”
Staying healthy has never been more important for Alexandra, now she has two adorable little boys to think of. “I was mindful of it when I lost my mum, but even more so since becoming a mum myself,” she says. “You’re nothing without your health.”
For guidance on how to check your breastsand understand what’s normal for you, visit tombola.co.uk/breast-cancer-now
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DAN Osborne has shared a vulnerable post about ‘finding peace’ seven months on from splitting with his wife Jacqueline Jossa.
The TOWIE star and his EastEnders actress lady called time on their romance back in March after being together for 13 years.
Taking to Instagram to reflect, Dan penned an emotional statement in the caption of a simple black and white selfie.
The caption began: “Sometimes you just need to get away from everything. Take time to think, reflect & reset.
“Not everyone will understand the way you deal with things, the decisions you make or what you need to find your peace. And that’s okay. You don’t need everyone to understand your journey or agree with how you choose to walk it.”
Dan then encouraged his followers to continue to pursue happiness, and grow along the way through all the lessons life throws at them.
He continued: “Do what makes you happy, what helps your mind, what gives you peace and what helps you grow. Never feel guilty for taking time for yourself.
“Life is about learning, reflecting, making mistakes, growing through them and constantly working towards becoming a better version of yourself.
The reality TV star signed the post off by sharing a revelation: “Sometimes the biggest growth happens when you step away from the noise and learn to be at peace with yourself.”
The post comes less than two weeks after Dan sparked concern sharing how he’s been struggling with a ‘war in his head’.
Dan further captioned the post by writing: “Can’t wait for the day I wake up with this feeling,” and added a worried laughing emoji and prayer hands.
Jac and Dan met at an awards ceremony in 2013 and tied the knot at a Cheshire manor house in 2017.
They are parents to daughters, Ella, 11, and Mia, eight, and Dan also has an 11-year-old son with his ex, Megan Tomlin.
The Sun then recently revealed that Dan was moving on with fitness model Etila Santiago, 33, after he made a secret trip to Miami to visit her after a holiday romance in May.
The Sun On Sunday revealed that Dan grew close to the Brazilian bikini model after bonding with her over fitness and their mutual support of Arsenal — and vowed to see her again soon.
Matt Baker and Nicola Baker (Image: Channel 4)
Countryfile star Matt Baker has shared some “big news” with his followers.
Matt Baker has thrilled his Instagram followers by sharing that he will be back on screens very soon with a brand new series. The Countryfile star confirmed he will be back next week with a new series called Our Farm In The Dales.
Alongside a picture of his family, Matt wrote, “Hi all, got some big news for all of you who enjoyed ‘Our Farm In The Dales’ (the series based on our family farm). We’re back with a new series, but with quite the twist. We’re calling it ‘Our Barn In The Dales’ as Nicola and I are converting the barn, stable, and granary at the end of the courtyard into a cottage…
“We’re deep in an epic adventure which will be spanned across 2 series, the first starting in a couple of weeks, is all the building and conversion stuff, and another series next year will be the interior bits and bobs. Hopefully full of all the things you loved in previous series with the animals, Mum Dad and of not forgetting his classic car – spoiler we finally finish it!”
He concluded the post, “A massive thanks to all our friends and new builder mates who are making our dream happen. See you in a couple weeks on More4 starting Tuesday 13 October 9pm!”
Matt’s followers were delighted by the announcement and took to the comment section to share their thoughts. One wrote, “We can’t wait for you to see it!”
“Ahhhh, great. We love seeing you all together,” another said while a third added, “That’s brilliant, I can’t wait to watch it. When will it be on TV?”
Someone else added, “Yay!!! Ah this is great news @mattbakerofficial. Lush family viewing. My son, in particular, loves you and wants to be a farmer. He’s in Butsfield YFC! You inspire him so much.”
“Great news! Looking forward to watching the new series,” one fan commented. This isn’t the only TV role Matt has announced recently, as he is returning to the BBC with his first solo series, Matt Baker: Life With Dogs.
The series, produced by his own company Big Circus Media, will explore the diverse roles dogs play in human lives – from working farm dogs to therapy dogs and assistance dogs for those with disabilities.
Matt told The Mirror: “Dogs have been a lifelong passion of mine, and I’m so excited to be making this series about the bond between humans and dogs. The show comes after the 48-year-old recently lost his beloved border collie Bob, leaving him heartbroken. He described Bob as “the ultimate companion through some of the greatest chapters of my life”.
The series will examine how dogs can be trained for medical detection, warning owners of oncoming seizures, as well as their roles in therapy and police work.
Our Barn in the Dales airs on October 13 on More4.
STRICTLY star Aston Merrygold has shared an emotional tribute following the death of his beloved mother-in-law Carole.
The JLS singer, 38, thanked wife Sarah’s mum for welcoming him into her family and being a devoted grandmother to their three children.
Sharing his heartbreak on Instagram, Aston wrote: “I still can’t believe this but thank you.”
He remembered meeting Carole for the first time, thanking her “for accepting me into your family with open arms and an amazing smile”.
Aston also praised her “for being the most loving thoughtful and HAPPY nanny to Grayson Macaulay & Riley”.
In the moving post, the singer recalled Carole telling him how much she wanted him to marry her daughter.
He wrote: “You telling me at Sarah’s 30th after a few Tia Marias you can’t wait for me to marry your daughter (I did sh*t myself abit)”.
Aston also remembered her helping him organise a move with now wife, dancer Sarah Lou, and giving him her blessing ahead of their marriage.
Among his most treasured memories was a cuddle with Carole shortly before eldest son Grayson was born.
The sweet post also paid tribute to the bond she shared with her grandchildren, saying: “We all absolutely adore you and we always will”.
The heartbroken star said journeys to see the family would now feel different without her.
“It wont ever be the same going over that bridge but every time i do i’ll be looking out for the little rainbow and also give a wave to Nanny’s house,” he wrote.
He ended his tribute: “Until we get to have Nanny’s biscuits and a tea again..
“The mother of my bride, Our super Nanny, we love you and will always miss you.. Thank you Razzle”.
Family has long been at the heart of Aston’s life, with the singer sharing sons Grayson, eight, and Macaulay, six, and daughter Riley, two, with Sarah Lou.
And eldest son Grayson is already showing signs of following in his famous dad’s footsteps.
In August, the tween joined Aston on stage at Colchester Castle Park to sing Jessie J’s Price Tag.
The proud singer danced alongside his son before lifting him onto his shoulders, later commenting on a clip: “My star boy.”
Aston previously described his sons as “mini showmen”, revealing they had picked up their love of performing from watching their parents sing and dance at home.
Speaking to PA, he previously said: “We haven’t pushed them in any way to do it.”
PUSSYCAT Dolls star Kimberley Wyatt has revealed she had a hip replacement as she shared tearful videos from her hospital bed.
The singer, 44, shared a photo of herself on crutches with compression socks on after the operation.
Kimberley said prior to the procedure she was left limping around and could barely sleep because of the pain.
She wrote alongside a series of photos from her time hospital: “I had a moment tonight. I’m in Dublin, settling into another hotel room, and I’d taken in too much. Too much news. Too much of what’s happening to women. Too much casual cruelty online.
“Too much of the stuff people seem to get away with and a bit too much from my own little world too.”
She then shared a clip of her in hospital before undergoing an operation.
READ MORE ON PUSSYCAT DOLLS
The pop star went on: “So I got in the bath and somewhere in there I realised I needed to give my brain something else to hold onto.
“Something good, Something I’m proud of. Which, weirdly took me straight to my hip. A few years ago I could barely walk. For nearly two years, I limped through every day and barely slept because of the pain.
“I remember watching my children playing on holiday and being in too much pain to walk over to them.
“I just stood there and I was scared.”
The star then posted a clip of her in tears while attached to drips from her hospital bed.
Kimberley was told that she would need a hip replacement and ended up ended up having to learn to walk again after the opertation.
She spoke about the photo of her on crutches with her son, who was then four, and said: “I look at that picture now and I don’t really see the surgery. I see the strength.”
Kimberley admitted she barely spoke about her hip at the time but said it felt “frightening”.
Looking at how far she’s come, the American star said: “And tonight I thought about where those legs are now.
“On a Pussycat Dolls tour, after four major surgeries, three caesareans, one hip replacement and somehow this body is still dancing.”
She captioned the post: “I haven’t spoken much about this part of my story.
“Tonight, I realised why I needed to.
“STILL DANCING. Beautiful Movements,” with a broken heart emoji.
Her Pussycat Dolls bandmate Nicole Scherzinger commented: “Thankyou for this.”
It comes after Nicole suffered a horrifying mishap just an hour before she was due to take to the stage with The Pussycat Dolls.
The band’s lead singer took to Instagram to showcase images of painful burns on her leg, leading one fan to claim: “God heal Nicole of any pain”.
Nicole, 48, is in the midst of the band’s jam-packed tour and shared how boiling water had spilled over her lower leg shortly before taking to the stage in Germany.
The Don’t Cha hitmaker uploaded an image showing her limb looking sore with red raw marks across her inner thigh from the knee down to her ankle.
In her caption she wrote: “Nothing like boiling water falling on your leg an hour before your set.
“But the show must go on.
“Thanks Dusseldorf for keeping me going. See you soon Amsterdam!”
14:27, 04 Oct 2026Updated 14:27, 04 Oct 2026
She said that there are some things passengers wear that she wishes they wouldn’t (stock image)(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Dressing up for the airport is part of the fun for many people, because as much as you want to look comfy while you travel, you also want to look chic. However, when it comes to your footwear, a flight attendant has shared that there’s something you should never wear, even though it might at first seem like the comfiest and best idea you’ve ever had.
Sille shared some advice about what’s best to avoid on a plane, and promised she didn’t intend to pass judgement on people’s clothing choices, rather that she wants everyone to be safe and happy in all potential circumstances.
On TikTok, @sillerydell wrote: “I see this on almost every flight, and I promise it’s not a judgment. Your feet and body will thank you,” as she detailed the things that she’d “skip” when travelling on a plane.
Footwear that could prove to be dangerous on planes are flip-flops. She wrote: “Flip-flops. Feet swell, cabins get cold. And imagine running to your gate in flip flops.”
“First of all, the aircon is brutal,” she said. “Secondly, you don’t ever want your naked skin near those seats.” You might want to opt for full-length trousers and a proper t-shirt, and perhaps even take a jumper with you in case you get too cold.
She warned that “your body swells at altitude,” so if you wear jeans that are too tight, you may end up feeling extremely uncomfortable, and wondering whether it was worth looking good and suffering, especially if you pair them with a crop top.
She shared that wearing one thin layer and hoping for the best isn’t ideal, as “planes can be freezing, even to hot destinations,” so you may want at least a jacket to keep you warm, or a jumper, and you can wear it on the journey back home.
She suggested “Something comfy, covered and in layers,” reiterating that she “works on planes so you don’t have to learn this the hard way”.
In the comments, someone wrote: “Totally agree!!! Flip flops and Crocs should be banned from flights.” Responding to people asking why, they replied they’re “not appropriate footwear”.
Another defended them, however, saying: “I always wear flip flops, BUT I have specific aeroplane socks that I wear on the plane, except to the bathroom, a different pair of flip flops go on for that, and then they get put in the trash. They are throwaway ones.”
A third wrote: “People wear flip flops to make it easier at security, but honestly, that’s so disgusting! I can’t imagine my bare feet touching those floors. Always socks and sneakers when I fly!”
Somebody else shared other things that they think people should stop doing on planes.
They wrote: “Also, stop wearing strong perfumes when flying. It can trigger allergies, migraines, and respiratory issues in a confined cabin space. Wear perfume or cologne when you’re outside the plane.”
Another said that they wear “linen trousers with elastic waistband, a vest top and a long shirt for layer, but I do wear sandals.”
CALUM Best shared a sweet tribute to his ‘fighter’ mum Angie as she returned to the UK after treatment amid her colon cancer battle.
Angie, 74, announced that she was diagnosed with the disease in January and in July was told that she was cancer free.
Over the past year she has kept fans up to date while undergoing traditional medicine, chemotherapy and immunotherapy, as well as an alternative mistletoe therapy in Switzerland.
Now Angie is back in the UK with her son.
Calum shared a snap of their pair cuddled up together in the airport car park, as well as one of her approaching him in arrivals.
He captioned the post: “Right then, she’s back on UK soil, let’s get you healed, fed healthy and fighting fit!
“From me to you mother, I’m so proud of what a strong fighter you are, this last year has been hell and u have managed it with such grace, a year or treatments.
“Surgerys and all the rest are not easy and you have powered through it so well and we will continue to.
“What I also want to say is a huge thank you to everyone so far on this journey, so many people asking and involved both in person and through social media, thank you for caring about Angie.”
Many rushed the comments section to share the love.
One said: “Oh wow.. so pleased to see this, right where you belong.. no place like home!”
Another wrote: “Such a beautiful Mother and Son relationship. Rest up now Angie, you’re incredible.”
A third chimed in: “Sending you both love and hugs.”
A fourth commented: “How incredible to go through such a journey and looks so beautiful and be an inspiration to us all!!!!!”
“Wonderful news ,you mum is definitely a true fighter 💪❤️wishing her well,” a fifth added.
Last month Angie revealed that she’s back in hospital after suffering a ‘setback’ following battle with cancer.
Taking to her page earlier today, Angie said: “Update my homies. I find myself back in the hospital.
“I have an infection. They think it’s bacterial. Bt I have to stay here a few days for results and to make it better.
“See you on the other side.”
After major surgery to remove a tumour from her colon in July, Angie revealed that she was cancer free.
Angie and footballer ex George Best are Calum’s parents.
Calum is a reality star who has been on Celebrity Love Island, Celebrity Big Brother and Celebrity SAS.
BILLY Joel has shared a new health update just weeks after undergoing surgery for a rare brain condition.
The singer, 77, who was diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) in May 2025, underwent a procedure to help improve his symptoms last month.
According to the NHS website, a hydrocephalus is a “build-up of fluid in the brain. The excess fluid puts pressure on the brain, which can damage it”, and NPH “usually develops in older people”.
He had a shunt implanted in his brain to drain excess fluid.
Earlier this week he shared how he has been feeling while on his SiriusXM show The Billy Joel Channel.
Billy said: “I know people are worried about me because they read that I have a brain disorder, which sounds a lot worse than it actually is.”
He added: “I’m okay” but went on to confess that his “balance isn’t that good”.
The performer also explained that he’s “lost a little bit of my hearing” – which he actually thinks is due to the performing on stage for years.
The star also confessed that he “appreciates” everyone but doesn’t want people to “worry” about him.
Talking about the surgery, Billy said last month: “I didn’t want to do that, but then I read up on it and I realised it can help improve your balance and can help your memory.”
He added: “You know, I don’t want to lose my marbles.
“It’s hard to tell what’s age and what’s a condition, so I agreed to do the shunt and I had a surgery, and they implanted a shunt in my brain and it actually improved things.”
After having the surgery, Billy explained: “My memory got better, my balance got a little better, my ability to function was better.”
After being diagnosed with NPH, Billy cancelled all tour dates due to the condition.
Billy is best known for songs such as Piano Man, Uptown Girl and We Didn’t Start the Fire.
Simon called the European spot a “very exciting” destination to visit(Image: kolderal via Getty Images)
For many people mapping out an autumn escape, short-haul European city breaks promising late-season sunshine tend to top the wishlist. But as one of Britain’s most respected travel journalists, Simon Calder, suggests a more affordable and “very exciting” destination.
During an appearance on Holly Rubenstein’s podcast ‘The Travel Diaries,’ Simon shone a spotlight on everything from ancient cities in Algeria to Cape Verde and the Azores. Another unexpected destination on his radar was Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia. Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia, is becoming an increasingly popular choice for a city break, offering a mix of historic sights, delicious food, traditional wine, famous thermal baths and relatively affordable prices.
Tbilisi’s historic centre is packed with colourful wooden balconies, winding streets and beautiful churches, alongside architecture reflecting Georgian, Persian, Russian and European influences.
The city takes its name from its natural hot springs, and the Abanotubani district is home to traditional bathhouses where visitors can enjoy the famous sulphur-rich waters.
One of the must-visits in the city is a ride on the cable car towards Narikala Fortress offers impressive views across Tbilisi and the Mtkvari River. From the fortress, you can also glimpse the iconic “Mother of Georgia” statue.
Simon said: “It used to be the case that you couldn’t fly from Tbilisi in Georgia from the UK. And suddenly, within a couple of days, British Airways and easyJet launched flights to Tbilisi.”
The travel guru continued: “And that’s a very exciting part of the world. Central Asia, Uzbekistan, is very much getting back to being more mainstream as well. So much exciting stuff to do,” reports the Express.
Autumn can be an attractive time to visit Tbilisi. September is typically warm, while October brings cooler temperatures but can still offer pleasant days for exploring the city. Early autumn can also feel considerably warmer than the UK, making it an appealing option for travellers looking for a break from cooler weather.
Tbilisi comes into its own during autumn for a whole host of reasons. While temperatures back home in the UK begin to plummet, Georgia’s capital basks in a pleasant climate, with average highs of 19.5C in October.
This mild, sunny weather is perfectly suited to exploring on foot, and with very little rainfall to contend with, you can safely leave the waterproofs behind. Tbilisi has earned a reputation as a remarkably budget-friendly travel destination, especially for visitors from the UK and Western Europe.
While prices have risen slightly in recent years owing to increasing popularity, the city still offers exceptional value for money.
In the Georgian capital, a pint of local beer in a bar or pub will set you back around £1.75, while meals out typically cost between £8 and £15.
Tbilisi’s charm lies in its fusion of old and new. The city’s ancient heritage is prominently displayed in the delightful Old Town (Dzveli Tbilisi), where a maze of cobbled streets winds past traditional houses with characteristic wooden balconies.
You can explore this historic quarter and uncover the domed roofs of the renowned Sulfur Baths in the Abanotubani district.
For a modern architectural wonder, walk across the Bridge of Peace, a contemporary pedestrian crossing that illuminates with thousands of LED lights after nightfall.
Georgian cuisine is a standout feature of any visit, and Tbilisi is the ideal spot to sample it. From the warming comfort of khinkali (spiced meat or cheese dumplings) to the cheesy delight of khachapuri (bread with cheese), the local food is a hearty and flavoursome experience.
Wash it all down with a glass of locally produced wine from one of the oldest winemaking regions on the planet.
Travel Local reveals that Georgia is widely regarded as the birthplace of wine. Archaeological findings of winemaking activity stretch back more than 8,000 years, making it the oldest continuous winemaking tradition in the world.
Remarkably, the very word “wine” is thought to have originated from the Georgian term for it, ‘ghvino’.
Tbilisi boasts a fantastic selection of wine bars and tasting rooms throughout the city, but the most celebrated vineyards and wineries can be found in the Kakheti wine region, considered the heart of Georgian winemaking.
It’s a well-loved and straightforward day trip from Tbilisi, typically requiring around a 1.5 to two-hour drive to reach the region’s principal towns such as Sighnaghi or Telavi.
October is also a particularly vibrant time to visit the city, as it plays host to the Tbilisoba festival, a grand celebration of the city’s rich history and harvest season. The streets burst into life with music, folk dancing and food stalls, offering an unforgettable insight into Georgian culture.
TOWIE’S Jordan Brook has revealed his brain will be damaged forever as he gave fans an emotional health update following his meningitis battle.
Earlier this year, the 31-year-old told how he had been diagnosed with viral meningitis and encephalitis and spent weeks in hospital after falling ill.
Jordan faced a terrifying battle to survive for his unborn child – as the virus attacked his brain, leaving him unable to speak or walk.
Now Jordan has given fans a new health update after looking over his MRI scans at a follow-up appointment.
He said: “It’s a real and bittersweet feeling when you see a picture of your brain and you see that there is damage there that will be there forever.
“I’m so proud of myself and how far I’ve come and really feel that I’m making that recovery. I’m almost at the six months mark now, which is a huge milestone in brain recovery.”
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Speaking about the scan pictures, Jordan continued: “Imagine breaking your leg or your arm… you will always see that scar on your body and this is one unfortunately you can’t see it, it’s in the head.
“It’s just a reminder about how bad these infections can be on the brain and that they can affect anyone.
“I’m doing everything I can do in my power to help people and raise awareness. I’ve got a lovely charity that I’m working closely with, we’re gonna do some amazing things.”
“I’m so determined to be me, I’m feeling like Jordan again. The energy is high, just got to keep going and fighting through this,” he added.
Jordan captioned the post: “I’ve just come out of another follow-up appointment and today I got to see my MRI and the scarring that’s been left on my brain.
“I won’t lie, seeing it was hard to take. But if this journey has taught me anything, it’s how resilient we really are.
“There are good days and difficult ones, but I’m still here, still recovering and still moving forward.”
One fan wrote: “You are an amazing human been through so much staying positive always is key keep going Jordan take care of yourself.”
Another fan penned: “You have come a long way and have achieved so much. Seeing how poorly you were to where you are now is testament to you.
“Enjoy your family with Soph and Brody. Onwards and upwards Jord!”
Jordan recently fought back tears as he recalled the scary moment doctors suspected he had brain cancer.
After going through a lumbar puncture – a procedure in which spinal fluid is drained and examined in a lab – doctors told him they were considering the possibility that he might have had brain cancer.
During an episode of By the Brook podcast, which he hosts with his girlfriend Sophie Kasaei, Jordan said: “Obviously, the doctors have to give you the worst case scenario.
“That’s when the doctors said, ‘We can’t rule out brain cancer.
“Now, to hear that when you’ve got your girlfriend sat next to you who’s seven months pregnant with a baby you’ve waited for so long…”
Jordan added: “You never want to hear that about your kids. Sophie’s holding my kid.
“You never want to hear about your partner. It was the worst time of our lives ever.”
EMILY Atack broke down in tears at the altar as Laura Whitmore shared unseen pics from her boozy Spanish wedding.
The TV star said ‘I do’ again in the hilltop town of Mojácar, just three weeks after she tied the knot at a local church in Bedfordshire.
And she had tonnes of celebs in attendance, including TV presenter Laura Whitmore and her husband Iain Stirling.
Taking to social media, Laura has now shared a string of stunning snaps from the special day, including Emily welling up at the altar as she married her hubby, Alistair Garner.
Laura captioned her post: “Emily got married!” and they posed together for a fun shot with sunglasses in hand.
The TV stars were also joined by Katherine Ryan for one of the photos, and Iain looked to be having the time of his life at the boozy event, as he clutched hold of two espresso martinis.
In another playful snap, Emily could be seen doing a peace sign as she walked through the picturesque streets in her wedding dress.
Other snaps shared by mum-of-two Laura included her enjoying family time with her youngest child, as well as photos from behind-the-scenes of Emily’s wedding during morning glam, and at a peek at the beautiful blooms adorning the wedding.
Following the ceremony, the party then made the short walk to Plaza del Ayuntamiento (Town Hall Square) where dinner was served under the giant umbrella-shaped canopy of a century old Weeping Fig tree.
The party was held in the Costa Almería, a sentimental spot where the actress spent childhood holidays at her musician dad Keith’s old summer pad.
Emily and her scientist hubby Alistair were joined by celebrity pals including David Tennant and Stanley Tucci.
Old friend Leigh Francis AKA Keith Lemon was also spotted in the crowd, along with comedian Katherine Ryan, who was seen enjoying some pre-ceremony oysters with her husband Bobby Kootstra.
The star-studded guest list also hosted Emily’s Rivals co-stars Alex Hassell, Victoria Smurfit and Rufus Jones, who plays her on-screen husband in the show.
Emily was walked down the aisle by her pop star father, Keith Atack and celebrated with her actress-comedian mother, Kate Robbins, as well as siblings Martha, George and other family members.
They originally wed at a romantic church service before a party in the garden of their mansion.
Guests were treated to a McDonald’s from a personalised van parked outside.
She wrote on Instagram after the first wedding: “Yesterday we officially got married among close family and friends. It was absolutely perfect.
“I can’t believe we get to do all that again in a few weeks time. Christ, we have fun don’t we.”
The loved-up couple welcomed baby Barney in June 2024 and got engaged in July 2025.
The Inbetweeners star said earlier this year that her second wedding would be a “fat, f***-off party”.
International crude oil prices climbed further on Tuesday morning amid uncertainty over US-Iran talks, as hopes of reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a waterway crucial to oil shipments, faded.
Hopes that Middle East tensions would ease were dashed at the weekend when Donald Trump rejected Iran’s offer of a seven-day truce.
Mediators are working with the US and Iran on a deal to end the fighting and reopen the Strait of Hormuz, officials told the Associated Press. The disruption to shipping through the waterway has affected global trade and added to inflation.
Iran has proposed reopening the strait if the US lifts its blockade of Iranian ports and eases sanctions, among other conditions. Washington says any deal must also address Iran’s nuclear programme. Officials said the two sides disagree over the timing of concessions and who should act first.
Brent crude, the international benchmark, gained nearly 2% and traded above $107 a barrel early Tuesday, well above its price of roughly $72 a barrel in late February before the Iran war.
US West Texas Intermediate crude rose 1.8% to more than $94 a barrel.
High oil prices have renewed inflation concerns and expectations that the Federal Reserve will raise interest rates again next month. Government bond prices have fallen as a result, pushing yields to multi-year highs.
The benchmark 10-year US Treasury yield rose above 5.27% on Monday, its highest level in 19 years, following a rise of nearly half a percentage point through September. Yields rise when bond prices fall, and this month’s sell-off is the heaviest in two years.
The US two-year yield has risen even further, climbing by more than 0.57 percentage points this month to nearly 5%. In Europe, Germany’s benchmark 10-year bond yield reached 3.62%, its highest level since June 2009.
Government bond yields help set borrowing costs across the economy, from mortgages to company loans. As yields rise, governments, businesses and households face higher costs, while stocks can become less attractive to investors.
In Japan, a 40-year government bond auction drew its strongest demand since 2020 as relatively high yields attracted investors, according to Bloomberg.
Stock markets also struggled after all three main Wall Street indexes fell on Monday.
In Europe, Tuesday’s open showed a mixed reaction.
The Euro Stoxx 50 was flat in early trading while the broader pan-European Stoxx 600 traded 0.2% higher.
The UK’s FTSE 100, Italy’s FTSE MIB, Spain’s IBEX 35 and the Netherlands’ AEX all traded between 0.1% and 0.2% higher than their Monday close.
However, France’s CAC 40 and Germany’s DAX 30 both dropped about 0.5%.
Over in Asia, Japan’s Nikkei 225 lost 1.3%, South Korea’s Kospi declined 0.9% and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng dropped 0.6%. Hong Kong-traded shares of Shein fell 11.7% after the online retailer reported a 67% fall in quarterly adjusted net profit from a year earlier.
The Shanghai Composite was little changed following a report from China’s official Xinhua News Agency late Monday that its State Council had discussed ways to make economic policies more effective.
Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 was down more than 0.1% by early morning in Europe.
Australia’s central bank raised its key interest rate by 0.25 percentage points to 4.6% on Tuesday, a 15-year high, as rising oil prices fuelled inflation. The Reserve Bank said higher fuel costs were pushing up prices across the economy, while growth and inflation had been stronger than expected.
The US dollar edged up to 157.42 Japanese yen from 157.39 yen. The euro fell to $1.1362 from $1.1371.
Gold remained near $4,160 after steep losses on Monday, as expectations of further rate rises weighed on the metal, which pays no interest.
Investors are also awaiting key US inflation and jobs data this week that could influence the Fed’s next decision. Markets are pricing in another rate rise at the end of October.
Additional sources • AP
NewGenIvf Group (NIVF) announced the pricing of public offering expected to generate approximately $1.25M in gross proceeds before placement agent fees and offering expenses.
The offering comprises 17.86M ordinary shares or pre-funded warrants in lieu thereof, priced at $0.07 per ordinary share. Pre-funded
