Lily Allen hesitated after being asked about the other woman from her bombshell new albumCredit: instagram/@theperfectmagazineLily retells her husband’s alleged infidelity on her new albumCredit: instagram/@theperfectmagazine
Following its release, the real life Madeline spoke out, with New Orleans based costume designer Natalie Tippett, 34, claiming to have been involved in the fling.
In a new interview with Perfect magazine, Lily was put on the spot and asked to name the title of her songs as the interviewer read lyrics in a dramatic style.
It was a trip down memory lane, with Lily correctly answering Not Fair, The Kooks’ Naive, Cheryl Tweedy, Friday Night and Pussy Palace.
She was then asked directly: “Who the f**k is Madeline?”
Pop star Lily, who was sitting on a toilet in a glamorous mini dress embellished with a large bow, momentarily hesitated before saying “erm that’s Tennis”.
On the track, which documents her discovering that her man’s connection with another woman is deeper than just sex, Lily sings: “So I read your text, and now I regret it. I can’t get my head ’round how you’ve been playing tennis.
“If it was just sex, I wouldn’t be jealous. You won’t play with me. And who’s Madeline?”
It has been put in the same lane as Dolly Parton classic Jolene, which sees the country star plead with an attractive woman not to steal her man, and Beyoncé’s Sorry, in which she takes aim at ‘Becky with the good hair’ after husband Jay-Z admitted to being unfaithful.
Stranger Things star David and Natalie reportedly began an affair while working on 2021 film We Have A Ghost, and he later allegedly flew Natalie to his home in Atlanta, Georgia.
He had married Lily the previous year in a Las Vegas ceremony.
Speaking from her home in New Orleans’ historic Treme district, Natalie told Daily Mail she was the woman behind “Madeline”.
When approached by Daily Mail, Natalie said: “Of course I’ve heard the song.
“But I have a family and things to protect.
“I have a two-and-a-half-year-old daughter, and I understand this is going on.
“It’s a little bit scary for me.”
The affair reportedly came to light when Lily found an incriminating text on David’s phone.
The discovery inspired several tracks on her new album, which details betrayal and heartbreak.
Natalie declined to discuss the lyrics further, saying: “Yeah… I just don’t feel comfortable talking about it at the moment.”
The Sun has contacted Lily and David’s reps for comment.
Lily and David announced their split in January after four years of marriage.
It is understood they separated in December, with Lily spending Christmas alone with her children in Kenya.
The LDN hitmaker was previously married to Sam Cooper from 2011-2018, although the relationship was understood to have crumbled some time before they made their split official.
With Sam, Lily had two children, 13 year old Ethel and Marnie Rose, 11
Lily and David Harbour split in December after four years togetherCredit: GettyLily’s artwork for her latest album West End Girl which critics have branded a ‘revenge record’Credit: PA
Lily Allen’s most shocking West End Girl lyrics
Madeline
Perhaps the most eye-opening track on the album, Madeline tells the story of lovers who had a pact to be open in their relationship, but that trust was broken when the man struck up a romance with a woman called Madeline.
“Saw your text, that’s how I found out, tell me the truth and his motives I can’t trust anything that comes out of his mouth We had an arrangement Be discreet and don’t be blatant There had to be payment It had to be with strangers But you’re not a stranger, Madeline”
Tennis
Lily sings about finding messages from another woman on her man’s phone that shows the secret lovers have a deeper connection than just sex.
“So I read your text, and now I regret it I can’t get my head ’round how you’ve been playing tennis If it was just sex, I wouldn’t be jealous You won’t play with me And who’s Madeline?”
Ruminating
A heartbreaking reflection on a once trusted partner being intimate with someone else behind her back.
“And I can’t shake the image of her naked. On top of you and I’m dissociated.”
“I told you all of this has been too brutal. You told me you felt the same, it’s mutual. And then you came out with this line, so crucial. Yeah, ‘If it has to happen, baby, do you want to know.”
Pussy Palace
This emotional track sees Lily come to terms with a lover using an apartment as a base for sex, but not with her.
“Don’t come home, I don’t want you in my bed. Go to the apartment in the West Village instead. I’ll drop off your clothes, your mail and medication.”
“Up to the first floor, key in the front door. Nothing’s ever gonna be the same anymore.
“I didn’t know it was a pussy palace, pussy palace, pussy palace, pussy palace. I always thought it was a dojo, dojo, dojo. So am I looking at a sex addict, sex addict, sex addict, sex addict? Oh talk about a low blow, oh, no, oh, no.”
Dallas Major
The title of this track is a pseudonym used by a woman, who sounds very much like Lily, on a dating app as she looks for validation and attention while her absent husband looks for affection elsewhere.
“My name is Dallas Major and I’m coming out to play. Looking for someone to have fun with while my husband walks away. I’m almost nearly forty, I’m just shy of five foot two. I’m a mum to teenage children, does that sound like fun to you?”
“So I go by Dallas Major but that’s not really my name. You know I used to be quite famous, that was way back in the day. Yes, I’m here for validation and I probably should explain. How my marriage has been open since my husband went astray.”
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The care facility’s manager described the incident as a “tragic accident” and said an investigation is underway.
The Care Quality Commission (CQC), the care home and medical provider regulator, is aware of the incident.
Michael Blissett, home manager at Berrycroft Manor, said: “This was a tragic accident, and our thoughts and prayers are very much with the family. We extend our heartfelt condolences to them.
“Everyone here is shocked and saddened by the accident. Investigations are still continuing as to exactly how this has happened.
“Safety here is paramount and we are working with HSE [Health and Safety Executive] and CQC to ensure this never happens again.”
A GMP spokesperson added: “Shortly after 7.30am yesterday (September 29), officers responded to reports of a concern for the welfare of a woman following a fall at a care home on Berrycroft Lane, Stockport.
“Emergency services attended but sadly, a 78-year-old woman died from her injuries in hospital later that day.
“Her family are currently being supported. Enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances of her death.”
A CQC spokesperson said: “CQC has been made aware of the death of a resident at Berrycroft Manor in Stockport, and our condolences are with the family at this sad time.
“We are in close contact with the home and police as they look into the circumstances around this incident, so we can understand if there is any regulatory action that needs taken to ensure people are receiving safe care.
“CQC’s priority, at all times, is the health and wellbeing of people using health and social care services, and all information we receive informs our monitoring of services and future inspections.
“We’d encourage anyone who has concerns about a health and social care service to let us know. This can be done by emailing [email protected] or via our customer service centre on 03000 616161.”
Emmerdale newcomer Kev is shown in a first-look clip for Monday’s episode, that sees him and Robert Sugden discussing some ‘big news’ ahead of their link being explained
00:00, 27 Sep 2025Updated 00:08, 27 Sep 2025
There’s a new arrival on Emmerdale next week, and a new video preview has teased scenes with Robert Sugden.
Newcomer Kev makes his debut on Monday and it soon becomes clear he and Robert are known to each other from their time in prison. Monday’s episode will reveal all, with Robert’s secrets in terms of his past with Kev and their mystery link coming to light.
A new preview has revealed Kev shares some “big news” with Robert, that leaves him emotional. Robert tells Kev he’s “gutted”, and it’s something Kev has had to “get his head around”.
It’s clear he’s keen for Robert’s support, wanting him to make him laugh, while Robert seems shocked by what he has uncovered. Fans will find out what it is when the episode airs next week.
They will also see the moment Robert’s confused sister Victoria Sugden walks in and sees them together. Questioning what she’s walked into, Robert is clearly hiding something from Kev.
Kev knows all about Robert’s sister, leaving her surprised. But as Robert claims Victoria knows who Kev is, he pulls a face at her that makes it abundantly clear he’s never mentioned him – while Kev doesn’t see this.
So why exactly is Robert hiding Kev from Victoria? Again, all will be revealed as the scenes air on Monday. In the clip shared, Robert tells Kev: “I’m gutted for you,” and he seems upset and shocked.
Kev replies: “I’ve got my head around it. I just need you to smile, make me laugh, distract me.” In that moment Victoria walks in and says: “Oh I’m sorry, am I interrupting?”
Robert tells her: “I didn’t know you were gonna be back so soon,” to which she says: “Clearly…” But Kev already knows who she is, saying: “Victoria, it’s so nice to finally meet you.”
Confused she’s even more baffled when Robert claims to have told her all about Kev. He then pulls a face at her as if to encourage her to play along, as Kev says he has to leave but hopes to see them again.
Robert claims they can meet properly next time, to which he comments: “I’ll bring something for Harry, too.” Victoria looks alarmed at this, before it’s clear she wants answers.
It comes as the latest episode of the ITV soap hinted at a Robron reunion for Robert and his ex Aaron Dingle. The pair seemed closer and Aaron tried to kiss his ex, only for Robert to say it wasn’t the right time.
This enables the passengers doors of the Mercedes slide open and the front door swings out.
And illuminated side step also comes out making it easier for passengers to climb into the vehicle.
The interior of the Mercedes reveals fully white leather seats and an illuminating floor.
A 65-inch television screen is also able to emeberge from behind the front seats.
“We also have seven projectors all over the car creating a fully immersive experience, including projecting on the windows,” Le Roux adds.
Mercedes reveals its new luxury EV with ‘superscreen’ passengers can play video games or watch Netflix on while on move
Other features inside the Mercedes is a chessboard that folds out between the passenger seats which are zero gravity, have extendable leg rests, and can be fully reclined.
On the outside, the front grill can light up along with a “world’s first illuminated” Mercedes-Benz star on the bonnet.
And there is no glass at all along the front headlights, which actually contain crystal.
The rim of the wheels also illuminate.
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The front grill can light up along with a ‘world’s first illuminated’ Mercedes-Benz starCredit: Getty
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The back of the car can also fully light upCredit: Getty
On the roof are several solar panels, and the back light is illuminated with a ring all around the back of the car – this contains the indicators.
Commenting on the video posted by car and technology influencer Tuesday Le Roux, fans shared their shock by this new motor.
One wrote: “Mercedes Vision V is like my living room.”
Another added: “Is this one car or heaven?”
A third said: “There is only two cars in the world, Mercedes Benz and the other cars.”
Germany begin their World Cup qualifying group with defeat by Slovakia, the third straight loss for four-time winners.
Published On 4 Sep 20254 Sep 2025
Four-time world champions Germany suffered their first away loss in a World Cup qualifier after their shock 2-0 defeat by hosts Slovakia in their opening qualifier for the 2026 tournament.
The Germans, who have set a goal of winning the 2026 World Cup, had never before lost a World Cup qualifier on the road, and they have now lost their last three consecutive matches, following defeats by Portugal and France in the Nations League in June.
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“We did not show any emotionality in our game today. In terms of emotions, the opponents were miles ahead of us,” Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann said after Thursday’s defeat. “We want to go to the World Cup, but today we were miles away from that.
“I want to see that emotionality. We picked the best players in Germany, but maybe we have to put less importance on quality and more on players who will give it all out there.”
The Germans have not made an impact in major international tournaments since last winning the World Cup in 2014.
Nagelsmann’s team were on the back foot with the Slovaks missing a golden chance in the opening seconds with Lubomir Satka. Germany goalkeeper Oliver Baumann then denied Leo Sauer in their one-on-one with a superb save in the 21st minute, in early warnings that the visitors did not heed.
Slovakia’s offensive play paid off in the 42nd when Germany’s Florian Wirtz lost possession and the hosts launched a quick break with David Hanchko completing it with a fine finish.
Germany, toothless in the first half, looked more aggressive after the break, and Leon Goretzka came close. However, Slovakia struck against the run of play, with David Strelec sending defender Antonio Rudiger the wrong way before curling a shot past Baumann in the 55th.
“The first five minutes of the second half were a bit brighter, but the rest was pretty grim,” Nagelsmann said.
“I trust my team, but they have to understand that simply being a better player than the opponent is not enough if you don’t show willingness and desire. You won’t get results with the handbrake on.”
The Germans, who were eliminated in the first round of the previous two World Cups, were unable to mount a serious comeback, lacking any ideas and punch up front.
Slovakia travel to Luxembourg for their next Group A match on Sunday, while Germany host Northern Ireland.
CHELSEA boss Enzo Maresca loves to celebrate with a cigar – but more than anything he wishes he could have a smoke with a team-mate who died in horrific circumstances.
Enzo Maresca has opened up on the heartbreaking loss of Antonio PuertaCredit: Getty
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The pair played together at Sevilla and Maresca would love to share a cigar with his palCredit: EPA
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Puerta died after collapsing on the pitch from a cardiac arrestCredit: AFP
After the latter, the Blues boss enjoyed one of his favourite Portagas 2 cigars, the brand he used to smoke with Manchester City head coach Pep Guardiola when they were marking City’s success.
But when Maresca was asked to name the football personality he would most like to one of his favourite Portagas No 2 cigars with, the Italian gave a poignant answer – Antonio Puerta, who died aged 22 after suffering a cardiac arrest on the field.
Maresca told Men in Blazers: “That’s a very good question. I will tell you, when I was 25, 26, I lost a team-mate inside the pitch. So if I could, I would like a cigar with him.”
Midfielder Maresca had four seasons at Sevilla but his third campaign started in tragic fashion.
The Italian was on the field when, just 35 minutes into the opening game of the 2007/8 season – at home against Getafe – Puerta suffered a cardiac arrest.
After the wing-back collapsed and lost consciousness in the penalty area, team-mates and medical staff rushed to his aid.
Puerta recovered enough to walk to the dressing room but collapsed again there.
He was resuscitated and rushed to hospital, where he had to receive more life-saving resuscitation.
But Puerta died three days later, on August 28, because of multiple organ failure and irreversible brain damage.
It emerged that he had an incurable hereditary heart disease called arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy.
Fans spot Liam Delap’s reaction on bench after Joao Pedro goal as Chelsea fans say ‘this guy can’t catch a break’
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Maresca and Puerta shared a close bond at SevillaCredit: AFP
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They won the UEFA Cup together in 2006Credit: Getty
Puerta’s death shocked Spanish football and the wider world.
His girlfriend was expecting their first child at the time of his death.
When Puerta passed away, Maresca and the rest of the Seville squad were already in Greece for a Champions League qualifier against AEK Athens.
Maresca, who played for Greek side Olympiakos later in his career, spoke about the tragedy when Chelsea went to Athens in October 2024 for a Conference League game against Panathinaikos.
Maresca said: “In terms of the season I spent here in Greece, for me it was very good with Olympiakos, a big rival with Panathinaikos. But unfortunately I lost a friend on the pitch when I was at Seville.
“The first game we played after that, we were already in Athens and just on that day, one of our team-mates passed away in Antonio Puerta.
“So it is a mixed feeling. The season in Athens was fantastic. But every time I come back here I am a little bit sad.”
The Champions League game against AEK, which had been scheduled for the evening of the day Puerta died, was postponed.
When Sevilla faced AC Milan in the Uefa Super Cup on August 31, all 22 players had the name Puerta on the back of their shirts.
Sergio Ramos, who had come through the Sevilla academy and into the first team with Puerta, wore T-shirts in memory of Puerta after Spain’s triumphs at Euro 2008 and the 2010 World Cup.
Jesus Navas, who was on the field on the day Puerta collapse, made the same gesture after the 2010 World Cup final.
In 2010, Sevilla unveiled a statue of Puerta at their training ground.
Watch the full Men in Blazers interview with Enzo Maresca here.
Despite playing girl’s football for years, watching England vs Italy in the Euros semi final was my first ever women’s game, and it was not what I expected
17:06, 25 Jul 2025Updated 17:06, 25 Jul 2025
I felt more included in a football crowd than ever before
I played football way before it was even a professional sport for women in the UK, and yet shamefully had never been to watch a single game of women’s football.
So, when Geneva Tourism presented the opportunity to go to Geneva and watch the Lionesses play in the Euro’s semi-final, it was a no-brainer.
It’s rare you get to watch a football game set against the backdrop of the French mountains, whilst standing in Switzerland, but that was the beauty of seeing the lionesses play at Stade de Genève. A beautiful stadium for the beautiful game.
Seemingly now football fans, including myself, are realising the Lionesses have so much to offer to lovers of the sport and the team are certainly giving them plenty to celebrate.
I went into the stadium with an open mind, a buzz in the air, and an excitement to get to know how it feels to support a team that has a high chance of walking away with a win.
England won 2-1 against Italy on Tuesday July 22
I must admit, I didn’t expect there to be as much atmosphere from the spectators in the crowd as there was but as stands packed out with fans of all genders, flags hung high, drums banging, and trumpets blaring there was a different kind of ambience.
This crowd was far less rowdy, less cruel to the opposition—seemingly less drunk too—but by no means did they lack that very same passion that drives any English football club.
When it came to the game itself, the standout thing I couldn’t help but notice, and albeit could just be down to the intensity of this semi-final, is these players love to get handsy. The women on the pitch couldn’t help but foul left, right, and centre, and that goes for both sides.
I’ve never seen so many near yellow cards, hands being grabbed and players being shoved, sneaky pulls on shirts, and cheeky tripping over than I have in any other game of football.
It proved these Lionesses have just as much, if not more grit, aggression, and daring streak than the male players I’ve been watching my entire life. Although it did have me cringing anytime a corner was taken – hoping and praying that we wouldn’t foul inside the box.
The crowd went wild when Michelle Agyemang scored for England
For years, as a fan of football, I did feel a sense of awkwardness within me, in both the pubs and at the games, feeling I couldn’t fully involve myself in the chaos.
It almost felt as though this was a game that belonged to the men and I was just merrily passing through. I didn’t feel welcome to join in with the celebrations and the cheering because often, I didn’t feel safe to.
But standing there in Geneva watching the Lionesses, it really did feel like it was everyone’s game and one that I could be a part of. I hugged the woman I just met when we watched a fresh-on-the-pitch 19-year-old Michelle Agyemang score that first goal.
We collectively drank wine (yes, outside in the stands, can you believe it) and talked game play with fellow fans and it felt like a place where my version of football belonged.
While I won’t be there to see the Lionesses take on Spain in the Euros final, I will be standing firmly in a pub, wine in hand, cheering along.
There’s no doubt I will also be guilty of screaming ‘REF’ at the TV even when it’s clear we did in fact foul, because let’s face it, there was a lot of that happening.
Come Dine With Me has been a firm favourite with British fans for years, but what do Americans make of the show?
In a city renowned for Mardi Gras, gumbo, and extravagant hospitality, I was curious how New Orleans locals would react to a programme that seems completely opposite: Come Dine With Me.
The enduring British cult series features strangers taking turns hosting dinner parties, whilst secretly rating each other in competition for £1,000. So, I gathered three locals – all proud Big Easy dwellers – and pressed play.
“That voiceover guy is savage!” he chuckled. “He says what everyone’s thinking, but way more brutal. It’s so British – sounds polite, but they’re low-key scheming and roasting each other behind their backs. Like smiling while they plan your downfall.”
However, not everything went down smoothly for him: “Some of the food? I had no clue what I was looking at. I’m like, is that dessert or dinner? And sometimes I had to put the subtitles on because I didn’t know what they were saying. But I kept watching – it’s addictive,” reports the Express.
The Americans were stunned by the shade, the scoring, and the chaos.(Image: Channel 4)
Next was mum-of-two Izzy Althans, 36, who works as an advertising operations coordinator. After tuning into the show, she rapidly became captivated.
Izzy revealed: “Come Dine With Me is such a fun way to see British at-home entertaining. In the US, it’s all about a theme – props, photo booths, curated playlists – but the Brits seem more focused on good ingredients and proper courses.
“It felt structured but relaxed, without all the over-the-top effort.”
She was particularly impressed by the presenting approach on the Channel 4 programme, saying: “In America, it’s very ‘make yourself at home’ – we want to have fun as hosts too.
American Brad dubbed the show “brutal”(Image: Brad Collins)
“But the show felt more like, ‘how can I take care of you?’ It’s not that this doesn’t exist in America, but it’s definitely a declining part of our culture.”
Whilst she adored the programme’s British appeal, she also valued its sharp edge.
“They can be so catty towards each other – but in this incredibly emotionless way. I loved it! And I’m obsessed with watching them shop at these cute speciality stores. In short, I think it is a brilliant show that I plan to continue watching it,” she explained.
Finally, there was Jenny Collins, a local teacher, who was captivated by the authentic, unvarnished approach.
She enthused: “After watching a few episodes I realised why I was so drawn to the show. It was the realism; from the appearance of the individuals, to the unedited conversations.”
Mum-of-two Izzy plans to continue watching(Image: Isadora Althans)
She also spotted a stark difference in style, saying: “I felt like it was real. In the States, even series that are supposed to be reality TV, are severely edited as not to offend anyone.
“Even the participants who we are expected to see as every day people, go in to make up like celebrities to improve their appearance prior to filming. I felt that I was seeing a true slice of the people who were hosting each meal.”
Despite the cultural differences – Yorkshire puddings, passive-aggressive banter, and sarcastic hosting – the consensus was clear: Come Dine With Me had charmed them.
It appears that all it takes is a bit of sarcasm, some peculiar fish pies, and a ruthless narrator – and even one of the most renowned food cities in America will take a seat at the dinner table.
Come Dine With Me is available to stream on Channel 4
Having high expectations when you’re visiting the best hotel in England isn’t a bad thing, but Danielle Kate Wroe was holding her breath to see whether Mallory Court could live up to them…
Danielle is a Social News Reporter for the social newsdesk, serving titles including The Mirror. She previously worked as a Lifestyle Writer for The Mirror. She has a special interest in books, feminism, stories from the LGBTQ+ community, and fashion. She’s also worked for Reach PLC’s InYourArea team as a Senior Community Content Curator.
The expectations are high when arriving at a hotel that has been named the best in England.
Earlier this year, the Mallory Court Country House Hotel and Spa was crowned the best large hotel by a panel of VisitEngland judges, who fell in love with the Warwickshire manor.
The experts heaped praise on Mallory Court, describing it as providing ‘a serene base ‘set within 10 acres of landscaped gardens, crammed full of all the modern amenities and luxury trimmings you could possibly want.
What’s more, the hotel was recently described as being an absolute bargain, with one reviewer noting that the price of a room for the night is half that of a similar country house. So, a lot to live up to.
Do you have a travel story you think we should cover? Let us know! Email [email protected]
Mallory Court Country House Hotel and Spa is seriously impressive(Image: CREDIT: Danielle Kate Wroe)
The gardens surrounding the hotel are gorgeous(Image: CREDIT: Danielle Kate Wroe)
We wandered around the gardens, and General Manager Josefine Blomqvist told us that Mallory Court is working to become more sustainable by growing its own produce—and the bees that buzz around the garden are part of that effort.
After getting ready for dinner, we headed to the lovely garden area and drank a glass of champagne as we enjoyed the stunning views. It felt like I’d stepped straight into an episode of Bridgerton, pretending that I was the lady of the manor. Once we’d enjoyed some olives and salted beans with our drink, we were taken through into the dining area.
My partner and I opted for the tasting menu curated by MasterChef winner Stu Deeley. I hadn’t indulged in a tasting menu for quite some time, so this was an exciting fine-dining experience. Plus, the sommelier went to great lengths to find the perfect bottle of wine for us to share as we dined. We opted for a Chinon Blanc Les Bondonnières Couly-Dutheil 2023, and it complemented each course perfectly. It was crisp but not too sweet—I’d definitely buy a bottle to enjoy at home.
We started with canapés and an amuse-bouche, one of which was the most melt-in-the-mouth goat cheese I have ever tasted. This was followed by a malted loaf from Silvertree Bakery with estate dairy cultured butter, burrata with pea and mint gazpacho and artichoke, a crispy Burford Brown egg, barbecued leek and warm tartare sauce, Cornish monkfish, borlotti bean cassoulet, baby courgette, brown shrimps, Espelette and nduja sauce, and finally the Oxfordshire hogget with potato terrine, French beans, and salsa verde.
(Image: CREDIT: Danielle Kate Wroe)
The meal delivered flavour sensations like I’ve never experienced before, especially the warm tartare sauce. It was unusual, but divine. The final part of the meal was, of course, dessert. The chocolate fondant tart was incredibly luxurious, with the mint ice cream providing a somewhat nostalgic taste. It reminded me of being a child and smelling mint in my mum’s garden—so it was not only delicious but also evoked lovely memories.
We finished off with some warm madeleines, a welcome way to round off the meal perfectly. We dined for three and a half hours, laughing and joking with our lovely waitress all night long, and left very satisfied.
Upon returning to the room, we were thrilled to see it had been turned down for the evening: the curtains were drawn, the fan turned back on, and we’d been left a gorgeous little jar of honey from the Mallory Bees. This was a lovely touch, given to guests for special occasions. I can confirm—it’s one of the nicest honeys I’ve ever tasted.
We got ready for bed, and I had a perfect night’s sleep. I didn’t even stir once, which, in the heat we were experiencing, was a surprise. The bed wasn’t too soft nor too firm—a real Goldilocks bed, if you will.
The tasting menu was absolutely stunning – I couldn’t fault it(Image: CREDIT: Danielle Kate Wroe)
The morning after, I made full use of the garden and went outside to read before getting ready for the day, while my partner made use of the spa facilities. He used the indoor and outdoor pools, and I went to have a nosy—they were immaculately clean and lovely. We headed to breakfast, where I enjoyed eggs royale and my partner had a full English. We also had orange juice and coffee. Again, the staff were lovely and welcoming and truly couldn’t do enough for us. Afterwards, we wandered past our private garden and into the hotel grounds, exploring the nooks and crannies. It’s like a magical fairy world.
I can truly appreciate why this hotel won Large Hotel of the Year at the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence 2025. My only query is: why on earth isn’t this hotel five-star? Because it more than deserves to be. It’s undeniably the nicest place I’ve stayed in this country—and I’ve been to some seriously fancy hotels. But Mallory Court is magical.
Sofia Carroll recently went on holiday to Spain to spend some well-deserved time in the sun. However, when she was sunbathing, something pretty wild happened to her skin
07:51, 17 Jul 2025Updated 07:52, 17 Jul 2025
She couldn’t believe what happened to her skin (stock image)(Image: Getty Images)
When we jet off on holiday, it’s normal to want to catch a tan. However, one holidaymaker, who jetted off to Spain for some time in the sun, recently had the shock of her life when she noticed something unexpected had happened to her skin.
Sofia Carroll recently took to TikTok to share what happened to her after she spent some time soaking up the sun on her travels. After examining her skin after a day sunbathing, it’s fair to say she was left pretty gobsmacked – in fact, she probably didn’t know it was possible for her skin to look like it did.
Over a clip of her legs, she wrote: “How my skin feels after falling asleep in UV 10.” She is then seen pressing her skin with her finger and you can literally hear it sizzle – and it’s not the first time people have burnt in the heat.
It sounds like her skin is frying every time she touches it, and it left people totally floored. When they say you can have too much sun, it looks like this video may prove it.
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One person responded, saying: “Sunscreen my girl.” To this, Sofia replied: “Mum sprayed SPF 50 all over [me] when I was snoozing. Didn’t work though.”
Another seemed to encounter a similar experience, as she wrote: “You and me both girl.” The clip has been viewed dozens of times since it was shared.
Earlier this week, it was also reported that Hollie Claire couldn’t believe what happened to her skin after spending some time relaxing in the sun. Known as hxllieclaire on TikTok, she said a summer tan is “not worth” spending your holiday looking patchy, so she urged people to wear plenty of factor 50 sun cream.
As she spent some time relaxing by the pool in Greece, she admitted her head ended up “swelling” because she fell asleep while sunbathing, and woke up looking totally different.
Over a clip, Hollie wrote: “Your reminder to apply sun cream properly and not fall asleep in the sun. Watch to the end to see how my head ended up swelling.”
How to protect your skin
When it comes to protecting your skin in the sun, the NHS advises: “Sunburn increases your risk of skin cancer. Sunburn does not just happen on holiday. You can burn in the UK, even when it’s cloudy.
“There’s no safe or healthy way to get a tan. A tan does not protect your skin from the sun’s harmful effects. Aim to strike a balance between protecting yourself from the sun and getting enough vitamin D from sunlight.
“Spend time in the shade when the sun is strongest. In the UK, this is between 11am and 3pm from March to October.”
When the weather is really warm, people are advised to spend time in the shade between 11am and 3pm, to never burn, cover up with suitable clothing and sunglasses, take extra care with children and use at least factor 30 sunscreen.
You shouldn’t rely on sunscreen alone to protect your skin from the sun. The NHS says it’s important to wear suitable clothing, and to spend plenty of time in the shade when the sun’s at its hottest.
When buying sunscreen, the label should have:
A sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 to protect against UVB
At least 4-star UVA protection
The NHS adds: “UVA protection can also be indicated by the letters ‘UVA’ in a circle, which indicates that it meets the EU standard. Make sure the sunscreen is not past its expiry date. Do not spend any longer in the sun than you would without sunscreen.”
Harry has been labelled as the ‘most unlikeable’ unlikeable contestant in the Love Island villa after sharing a ‘sickening’ admission with Helana
Love Island fans ‘shocked to the core’ as Harry makes ‘sickening’ confession to Helena(Image: ITV)
Love Island fans are ‘done’ with Harry after he made a sickening confession to Helena in tonight’s explosive episode. Casa Amor is finally here, but before the islanders were told their fate, on-off couple Harry and Helena were enjoying a breakfast date before the controversial islander dropped a bombshell.
Harry, 30, was speaking to Helena, 29, about their past relationships when he asked her if she has ever been in love. After some thought, Helena admitted that she doesn’t think she has ever been in love with anyone. When asked the same question, Harry told Helena that he was in love with ex-girlfriend Emma.
Helena then asked why he and Emma broke up, to which Harry admitted that they ended because due to different circumstances. However, he then dropped the bombshell that he cheated on Emma just one week into their relationship – but they ended up staying together for three years after his infidelity.
Love Island fans were left ‘sickened’ by Harry’s admission, but more than that, they were horrified by the fact he seemed proud of the admission. One viewer on X said: “Harry is such a manchild! The way he was loving admitting that he cheated on his ex. Sickening.”
Harry revealed that he cheated on his ex girlfriend one week into their relationship(Image: ITV)
Another echoed: “Harry is the most dislikable person in Love Island history omg. He absolutely loves himself!!!! Helena will have a lucky escape if he finds someone else in Casa.” Someone else said: “HARRY!!!! He just keeps digging a hole for himself. He is so annoying.”
It became clear within minutes that tensions were high in Casa Amor and that the boys were not wasting any time. On their first night, Dejon kicked things off with a flirty round of Truth or Dare to break the ice. Things quickly heated up fast as Ben dived in with a bold three-way kiss, including Harry’s ex, Emma.
Harry then soon came face to face with his ex girlfriend Emma, who greeted him with a cheeky: “Surprise!” He later confirmed the ‘E’ tattoo on his wrist is, indeed, for her.
Harry and Helena have reignited their spark(Image: ITV)
As the Islanders chatted about their types, Yaz said she needs emotional depth in a partner. Emma didn’t miss a beat, leaning toward Harry and saying: “Well that’s you out.”
Meanwhile, Tommy didn’t hold back with the new arrivals: “There’s definitely a few of you that tickle my fancy.”
After the shock of her entrance, Harry and his ex Emma finally caught up, and he said: “I don’t need you to come and tell me off.” But Emma has no plans to stay quiet as she called him out on his bad behaviour with Helena.
“It’s disgraceful though… like, how are you still doing the same thing?” she said. “The way you’ve been moving with Helena honestly… you two deserve each other… two snakes.”
Why everyone is talking about New York City’s new mayoral frontrunner.
Thirty-three years old, socialist, Muslim – and now, the likely Democratic nominee for mayor of New York City – Zohran Mamdani was barely known a few months ago. Today, he may be the most popular political voice of a generation. How did he get here – and could he be here to stay?
ITV’s quiz show, The 1% Club, which is hosted by Lee Mack, pits contestants against each other to try and win £100,000 by answering questions only 1% of the UK get right
ITV’s game show The 1% Club has become a huge hit since it first hit our screens in 2022(Image: ITV)
ITV’s game show The 1% Club has become a huge success since it first hit our screens in 2022. Hosted by Not Going Out star, Lee Mack, the primetime programme features IQ-style questions based on logic and common sense, as opposed to general knowledge. A total of 100 contestants are slowly whittled down as they attempt to make it to the end and successfully answer a question in 30 seconds, that only 1% of the population can get right in a bid to bag £100,000.
However, what viewers don’t know about the show is that some of the scenes are actually fake – according to a former contestant, who has lifted the lid on the smash-hit series, which she filmed in October last year. Spilling the beans on the programme, Heidi Phillips, 49, said she bagged a place on the show after seeing an advert on Facebook and then having a mock 1%-style quiz on Zoom.
ITV’s quiz show, The 1% Club, which is hosted by Lee Mack, pits contestants against each other to try and win £100,000(Image: ITV)
Revealing what really goes on behind the scenes of the series, which is one of ITV’s most popular offerings, she claimed some of the scenes were fake, revealing that Lee’s jokes are not filmed at the same time as the contestants are answering the questions.
Heidi explained, while talking to Fruity Slots: “While contestants are answering questions on the tablet, Lee usually takes the time to make a joke to the audience at home. But all his comical parts are filmed later.
“When we’re answering the question, he remains silent. Then he has to be filmed asking the question again and we have to pretend to put our answers in. That was a bit weird!”
Heidi also said the contestants had to abide by a very strict rule on the show, which, if flouted would mean they would be forced to hand back any prize money – immediately.
The contestant, who bowed out of the programme at the 35% question, said: “When we got put in our seats in the studio, they gave us the tablets and told us it was important to keep our eyes firmly locked on the screens and not look at each other.
“There were actually invigilators who go back through the show episode to make sure every contestant plays the game fairly.
“You could have won the cash prize but if they go back through filming and see you glanced over at another contestant’s screen before answering, you’ll forfeit the prize.”
Heidi added: “That’s not happened yet – but it was a stern warning!”
Despite the strict warning from producers, Heidi said host, Lee, is very charming and “naturally funny”, sharing: “He’s honestly really funny. Very naturally funny. He also has banter with the warm-up comedian and creates a nice atmosphere.”
She also said she’d jump at the chance to go back on the show again and praised the programme’s staff for “going back over the funny anecdotes I’d shared with them and make sure I’d be happy to discuss it on the show if Lee (Mack) wanted to”.
Heidi, who also said contestants had to make sure they were dressed appropriately for the show, wearing “nothing low cut”, added: “They seemed really concerned about our welfare and us being happy to share things on TV. They really took the time to check in with us.”
And her advice for anyone wanting to go on the show, who has made it to the audition round? “When they ask you how you’ll spend the winnings, don’t say something boring like paying off the mortgage. Give a really wild question,” said Heidi, adding: “I made silly jokes that if I won the prize, I’d spend it on opening a trifle sandwich shop.”
Love Island 2025 contestant Harry Cooksley got on the bad side of viewers this week on the ITV2 series, so much so several fans wanted him to leave the villa after his latest actions
22:46, 11 Jun 2025Updated 22:46, 11 Jun 2025
Love island 2025 contestant Harry Cooksley got on the bad side of viewers this week(Image: ITV/Love Island)
One Love Island star could be set for a looming exit from the villa if fans have their way.
Harry Cooksley faces calls to be dumped from the show after his “player” actions during the latest episode. Not only did he lie to current partner Shakira about a televised moment, but a “naughty” comment he made to Helena was also picked up on.
Earlier in the episode, Harry snuck off with Helena to the Hideaway and they joked about heading back there in secret when everyone was asleep. Harry ended up telling Shakira all about his flirting with their co-star, but he didn’t exactly admit to all that went on.
Then when it came to a game of dares, Harry gave Helena a lap dance. It’s what he said during this and then did after that sparked annoyance with fans, but also Shakira.
Harry was heard whispering the word “Hideaway” into Helena’s ear, while Shakira was sat right there. She watched them awkwardly as he made the remark, clearly hoping to head to the private room later.
Then as the ‘dance’ came to an end, he sat down and put his hand on Shakira’s leg, as well as Helena’s leg. When Shakira learned about this she wasn’t happy and called him out.
One Love Island star could be set for a looming exit from the villa(Image: ITV)
He denied the recorded moment had happened before asking Helena about it. He’d also made it seem as though Helena was doing all the flirting.
Viewers tuning in were left infuriated with many calling for Harry to leave the show. Others spoke about his “wild” comment to Helena while Shakira was in earshot.
One fan posted on X: “Is nobody going to talk about how Harry literally lied to Shakira’s face, saying Helena stuck it on him when he did the exact same. And whispering ‘hideaway’ to Helena in the game. GET HIM OUTTT!!”
Another fan agreed: “Get Harry out my villa.” A third viewer posted: “I just need all the men out of the villa right now,” as a fourth fan posted: “I need Harry, Helena, Ben, Blu and Meg all dumped.”
Other viewers commented on the comment, with one saying: “Harry whispering ‘Hideaway’ in front of Shakira was wild and so weird,” as another said: “He did NOT just whisper hideaway to Helena when Shakira’s right next to them.” A further comment read: “WoooooW whispering hideaway is naughty.”
Harry Cooksley faces calls to be dumped from the show after his “player” actions during the latest episode(Image: ITV/Love Island)
It comes as viewers confessed they think they already know which former Love Island star is set to enter the famous second villa, Casa Amor. Sophie Lee was axed from the show on Tuesday night in a brutal dumping, after her partner Harry was stolen by Shakira. Sophie’s exit left fans stunned with many gutted to see her go so early on.
But some viewers are now convinced her time on the show isn’t over. With a recent series seeing a dumped girl return to the villa for Casa Amor, viewers are now speculating Sophie will be back on the show in a matter of weeks, as a bombshell in the second villa.
Taking to X, fans guessed the twist would happen with one fan writing: “I reckon Sophie will re-enter the villa as a bombshell by the end of next week at the latest or she will re-enter in Casa Amor.” Another said: “Dw Sophie you’ll be back in 4 weeks for Casa Amor.”
A third viewer begged: “Nah bring Sophie back for Casa Amor she deserves a chance.” A fourth fan agreed: “Bring her back for casa amor!!” as a fifth viewer posted: “Gutted for her and bring back Sophie as a bombshell or Casa Amor.”
The comments kept on coming with one reading: “They better bring Sophie back as a Casa bombshell. Justice for Sophie.” Another said: “BRING SOPHIE BACK FOR CASA AMOR!”
Coronation Street’s Craig Tinker actor Colson Smith has shared how his pals and co-stars supported him on his final day on set, and after he found out he was leaving the ITV soap
22:00, 21 May 2025Updated 22:00, 21 May 2025
Some of Colson Smith’s Coronation Street co-stars helped him through his “toughest days” after he learned he’d been axed(Image: ITV)
Some of Colson Smith’s Coronation Street co-stars helped him through his “toughest days” after he learned he’d been axed from the show.
Colson learned from bosses back in October that his character Craig Tinker, who he’d played since he was 11 years old, was being killed off. Craig bowed out in horrific scenes on Wednesday night, 14 years after his debut.
Colson revealed he had a lot of time to process the news, but he found it “tough” seeing the shocked reactions of his colleagues. Then as it came to his final day on the famous set, one co-star and pal in particular shared their disbelief that he was leaving with many of his colleagues stunned by the news he had been written out of the show.
Speaking to The Mirror and other press, actor Colson revealed a number of his colleagues were “emotional” as the time came to say goodbye for good, while they were also on hand to support him through his last day.
From getting to film some of his last scenes with his close friends to one soap icon guiding him through some last-minute nerves, a number of his co-stars were there for him during some crucial moments as Colson prepared to bow out of the show that “had been his life”
Coronation Street’s Craig Tinker actor Colson Smith has shared how his pals and co-stars supported him on his final day on set(Image: ITV)
Colson’s mum, dad and sister came to watch him film his final scenes, and “a lot” of cast and crew were left crying over his final day. Praising his friends on the show, he told us: “I’ve been extremely lucky that I have had so many people who I trust and can talk to the entire process about from finding out in October that I was leaving, and I was leaving the show, and what was happening all the way through.
“I knew that my toughest day was going to be the night that I found out in Kate’s office at half past seven, and then my next toughest day was going to be the day that I left. So everything in between kind of merged into one, but I kind of set myself up that week.
“So on the Thursday night, I came back to work at about 8pm and it was a really nice evening. It was warm and security knew that I was coming, and I just sat outside the Rovers on the street for probably about an hour, and just sat on the street, kind of soaked it all in.
“It’s just my way of saying goodbye and thank you to Corrie and everything that it had done for me. Colson’s friend and podcast co-host Ben Price had been off the week of his final episodes, but he headed back to Manchester to be there for him, even visiting the studio the night before Colson’s last day.
Andy Whyment was particularly shocked and emotional about the news(Image: ITV)
“I went back into the car park, Ben was just pulling in and I had a Costco cookie in my mouth. He was like, ‘Where have you got them from?’ and they were in my dressing room. So he came up to get a cookie, and then in my dressing room, he’d seen everything that I bought for the Friday.
“I bought everybody a little Lego Craig Tinker. A little Lego police officer with ginger hair, and I just put a sticker on it that said, ‘PC Tinker will always be there when you need him’, like, ‘I’ll miss you all forever’.
“So then me and Ben spent until about 11 o’clock, dishing all these Lego Craig Tinkers out, hammering them to people’s pigeon holes.” Colson felt ready to face his final day, filming scenes with his close friends.
He said: “My final scenes were full of people who I got along with. I had Andy Whyment in, Joe Duttine and David Nielsen, Jacob Roberts in, so there was so much emotion on set. I was sat in the car park at about ten to seven as Andy Whyment pulled in, and I had Macy Gray’s I Try on in the car, and Andy pulled in in tears.
“He parked his car skew-whiff and I was like you can’t leave your car like that. You’re gonna have to re-park. He just got out, and he was like, ‘I’m sorry, my head’s been a mess, like all night, all day.’ I said to them [all] let’s just get on set and let’s do the job.”
But Kirk Sutherland actor Andy’s emotions continued throughout the day, with him telling Colson of his disbelief over his exit. Colson said Andy told him: “No I don’t like it. I can’t believe what’s happening.”
Colson revealed a number of his colleagues were “emotional” as the time came to say goodbye for good(Image: ITV)
As it came to shooting his final scenes, Colson got some last-minute nerves. But Roy Cropper legend David Neilson was on hand to save the day. Colson explained: “You get all the way up to your last shot, and you know it’s your last shot.
“I’ve seen so many people leave, I’ve seen so many final speeches, I’ve seen it all so many times and the camera was on me and David Neilson behind the counter at Roy’s Rolls. I turned to him and I went, ‘I’m really nervous,’ and I was borderline shaking. I could feel like the atmosphere building and I can feel people coming in.
“David just pulled me in, whispered in my ear and I was like, yeah, yeah. Like, this is it. They called action, Duncan [Foster]called cut. They checked it, and then the next thing I know, people were clapping, and the studio is kind of full. I was like, wow, done.”
A fight broke out on Damlatas Beach in the Alanya district of Antalya, Turkey over the price of sunbed rental, according to local media reports. The scrap was watch by beachgoers and captured on video
Milo Boyd Digital Travel Editor and Commercial Content Lead
15:26, 20 May 2025
The fight broke out on Damlatas Beach in the Alanya district(Image: Getty Images)
A tourist who decided not to buy a sunbed was beaten up by a resort worker on a popular Turkish beach, it has been reported.
The fight broke out on Damlatas Beach in the Alanya district of Antalya and was watched by crowds of tourists. A sunseeker had been enjoying the rays and asked a resort employee how much sun lounger rentals cost, Milliyet reported.
The tourist decided the price was too high and forgoed the sunbed, opting instead to put his things on the sand. The worker then asked him to remove his belongings and leave the resort. At this point, the fight broke out.
The violence was caught on video. The clip shows several men swarming around a man in swimming trunks who falls to the floor as they beat him. He struggles to get off the sand onto his feet as they continue the pummelling. Several sunworshippers lounging on towels nearby watched on, clearly shocked by the outbreak of violence.
Alanya District Governor Fatih Ürkmezer said that the sunbed business had been closed following the fight.
“Judicial and administrative procedures regarding the attack on a tourist that occurred in a beach business in Alanya in recent days, which does not reflect our city and our understanding of tourism, have been initiated immediately,” he told local media, clearly concerned about the impact the fight and video of it could have on tourism to the area.
“Approaches that are contrary to the understanding of hospitality of both our city and our country will not be tolerated in Alanya, one of the cities where tourism first began in Turkey.”
Business owner Serhan Koçaroğlu sent a written statement to the press following the incident, giving his version of events. He claimed that the incident occurred outside the beach borders of his business and that the beaten man had provoked the attack. Mr Koçaroğlu also said that the tourist was Russian and not British, as some local media outlets have suggested.
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“A Russian tourist, under the influence of alcohol, threw a sunbed at our Turkish customer sitting in a lodge on our beach. When I went to intervene, I was physically attacked by the tourist in question,” Mr Koçaroğlu said.
“The scuffle that broke out when some citizens and Turkish customers on the beach reacted after they saw me being beaten was recorded. There is no footage of the beginning of the incident. Also, it is not legally possible to have security cameras on the beach.”
Mr Koçaroğlu said that he decided not to contact police following the incident as he did not want to damage the reputation of Alanya, Milliyet reported.
The sunbed scuffle was the first major lounger-related incident to make news of the summer season. However, there are bound to be plenty more as families head out to swimming pools and beaches across southern Europe for a spot of sunshine.
