The Sun on Sunday

I visited the chocolate box English village made famous for its cheese

ANIMATION movie favourites Wallace and Gromit needn’t have hopped on that rocket to the moon in search of cheese.

The chocolate-box Somerset village of Cheddar is closer – and no prizes for guessing what the star of every quaint cafe’s menu might be.

Somerset’s ancient and majestic Cheddar Gorge Credit: Supplied
Wallace and Gromit art in the gorge Credit: Supplied

In fact, Cheddar cheeese can be enjoyed in any and every way imaginable here – piled into a sandwich with chutney, blended into a savoury scone . . . or even in ice-cream form.

These cafes sit alongside cheesy souvenir shops, clothing boutiques and attractions all dedicated to the well-known dairy delight.

Luckily, Wallace and his dog Gromit have finally cottoned on.

The duo are at Gough’s Cave in Cheddar Gorge until May 31, starring in a new illuminated trail that celebrates 50 years of their creators, animation firm Aardman.

WAIL OF A TIME

I drove Irish Route 66 with deserted golden beaches and pirate-like islands


TEMPTED?

Tiny ‘Bali of Europe’ town with stunning beaches, €3 cocktails and £20 flights

Dotted throughout the ancient, cavernous structure are sculptures of Wallace and Gromit, and franchise characters Feathers McGraw and Shaun the Sheep, for kids to gawp at, while adults can uncover facts about the gorge itself.

It’s pretty much the only local attraction that’s not dedicated solely to cheese, although if you keep your eyes peeled, you’ll still spot some of the yellow stuff (more on that below).

Labelled as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, Gough’s Cave began forming over half a million years ago and shows how incredible nature can be.

Most of the stalagmites have been developing for hundreds of thousands of years and there are areas of the cave that resemble the remnants of a giant candle with a waxy exterior that has melted into a puddle on the rocky floor.

Pick up some of the local stuff from the Cheddar Gorge Cheese Co, including the cave-aged Cheddar – rich and complex in flavour Credit: Supplied
Tuck into a hearty ploughman’s platter, with big hunks of white bread accompanied by dollops of piccalilli and generous wedges of Cheddar at Cafe Gorge Credit: Supplied

As I wandered the damp tunnels, my audio guide kicked in, like my personal geographical expert, highlighting how the minerals have transformed the colour of calcites into shades of rusty red and yellow over many years.

About a third of the way in, hidden in a cool, damp area, you’ll find huge wheels of cave cheese, placed carefully on shelving units.

Cave-ageing is one of the traditional methods for maturing cheese, in cool and dark conditions.

Although much of the UK’s Cheddar production sadly no longer occurs in these parts, you can still pick up some local stuff from the Cheddar Gorge Cheese Co, including the cave-aged Cheddar – rich and complex in flavour.

Anyone who buys a ticket to the caves can climb Jacob’s ladder, an historic set of 274 steps that leads to the peak of the gorge, with a lookout tower offering spectacular views.

The village itself is also a great place for a stroll.

Or meander past the shops, following the river and visit quaint cafes featuring walls decorated with flower-filled pots.

Cafe Gorge is one of the best spots for lunch. Its ploughman’s platters are properly hearty, with big hunks of white bread accompanied by dollops of piccalilli and generous wedges of Cheddar.

If you’re a wildlife lover, keep your eyes peeled for furry mountain goats grazing on the craggy hillside.

The whole experience is rather cheesy, but that’s what makes it so Gouda!

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I went to the understated Croatia-alternative with fewer crowds

REMOTE, rugged, and refreshingly underrated, Montenegro doesn’t scream and shout for your attention.

Everyone goes wild for Croatia’s polished reputation when planning their summer travels, but that comes with a conveyor belt of tourists pottering through various old towns and restaurants lining the Adriatic Sea.

Boats moored in Kotor harbour Credit: Getty
The pool at the Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Credit: Supplied

An understated alternative, Montenegro is every bit as beautiful, but far less busy.

Explore further and you’ll find an abundance of great food and adventure without needing to reserve any sun loungers or doing serious damage to your bank balance.

Little but lovely, this country in the Balkans is one of Europe’s most unsung, and you should go before others catch on.

On the way through various towns, you won’t find any attempts to cater for mass tourism, a testament to their “Polako, Polako” approach to life, which translates as “slowly, slowly”.

WAIL OF A TIME

I drove Irish Route 66 with deserted golden beaches and pirate-like islands


TEMPTED?

Tiny ‘Bali of Europe’ town with stunning beaches, €3 cocktails and £20 flights

Nothing reflects that more than McDonald’s attempt to crack the market in the country.

The fast-food giants opened a restaurant that was so unsuccessful they quickly closed it — the people here prefer to eat locally.

Surprisingly, while the culture and people are beautiful, warm and welcoming, they’re far from the standout feature of this stunning country.

Variety is perhaps the word that describes it better than any other.

Take in the stunning views over Kotor Credit: Getty
The scenic Lake Skadar National Park Credit: Getty

In a matter of hours, you can go from ski slopes to beach sun lounger — and that’s without considering its stunning lakes.

Montenegro is not somewhere you go to sit still for a week, although you could. It’s somewhere you must explore.

For me, the best way to ease into the “Polako Polako” way of life was on a boat trip through Lake Skadar.

Getting there is an experience in itself. Winding along one-track roads, we arrive in the village of Rijeka Crnojevica.

Clambering aboard a local’s traditional wooden boat, we glide silently along narrow channels lined with towering reeds.

As we emerge into the open water, the lake reveals its true scale, a shimmering body of water framed by the dramatic, jagged peaks of the Albanian Alps on one side and the rolling green hills of Montenegro on the other.

Keeping our eyes peeled — it’s a sanctuary for more than 280 species of birds — we attempt to spot the rare Dalmatian pelican, known to perch on the ruins of the 19th-century Lesendro Fortress.

The rare bird evades us, although we do spot a lone heron and plenty of other birds chirp overhead.

Looking at the almost turquoise waters, you see colours you would expect in the Maldives or Australia — not somewhere less than a three-hour Jet2 flight from Stansted.

The lake tour is around two and a half hours.

Try to spot the rare Dalmatian pelican, known to perch on the ruins of the 19th-century Lesendro Fortress Credit: Getty
The Church of Our Lady of Remedy, perched on the slope of St. John Mountain Credit: Getty

For couples, it’s an easy win: Relaxed, scenic, and just enough activity to feel like you’ve done something with your day.

After the cruise, a simple lunch of freshly prepared local fish rounds things off, and every bite tastes as fresh as the water we’ve been floating through.

That sense of authenticity carries through to the food more broadly, and nowhere is that clearer than at one of the country’s traditional olive farms.

Moric Olive Farm on the Lustica Peninsula is a perfect example and the journey there takes us past wild pomegranate trees, dry stone walls and into the silver-green olive groves.

We are welcomed by Ilija Moric, whose family has tended the trees for eight generations.

His passion is obvious as he takes us through the farm’s history, showing us the contrast between the ancient stone mill where donkeys once turned the heavy wheels to the shiny, modern organic production they use today.

If Lake Skadar is about slowing down, Montenegro’s vast black mountains are where the country comes to life.

Paved roads give way to rugged tracks, and the scenery becomes more dramatic with every turn, revealing sweeping viewpoints, scattered churches perched in improbable locations, and a sense of isolation that feels both exciting and grounding.

Exploring this landscape on foot, stopping to take in the silence or to light a candle and say a prayer in a small, weathered church, adds a layer of depth to the experience.

Rarely does a destination manage to balance contrast so well, moving seamlessly between rustic and refined, active and relaxed, without ever feeling disjointed, and it’s that consistency of variety that makes Montenegro so worth visiting.

Our base was the 4H Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay Resort, set right on the edge of the bay.

There’s an underground tunnel connecting the hotel with its private shingle beach, and the hotel itself features two pools including a vast, heated infinity pool overlooking the bay.

There’s three restaurants on site but it is just a 15-minute drive to the medieval maze of Kotor’s Old Town.

For couples searching for a summer escape that delivers on scenery, activity and atmosphere without the crowds or price tag of more established hotspots, Montenegro makes a strong case as the quieter, more affordable alternative to Croatia.

GO: MONTENEGRO

GETTING/STAYING THERE: Seven nights’ B&B at the 4* Hyatt Regency Kotor Bay is from £1,389pp including flights from Stansted in September, 22kg baggage and return transfers.

See jet2holidays.com.

OUT & ABOUT: Boat trip, from £58per adult and £29per child.

See jet2experiences.com.

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I went to the UK attraction named the best in the WORLD and it has had a £3million upgrade

GRACEFULLY stepping on to the red-carpeted gangplank, I turn and wave to the crowd.

Well, I say crowd. It’s a coach party from Aberdeen, who, like me, have come to snoop around our late Queen’s favourite floating home.

The Royal Yacht Britannia, docked in Edinburgh’s Port of Leith for the past 28 years Credit: Marc Millar/Royal Yacht Brittania
The royal ship attracts lots of visitors Credit: Marc Millar/Royal Yacht Brittania

The Royal Yacht Britannia, docked in Edinburgh’s port of Leith for the past 28 years, has been named the World’s Best Attraction at Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards 2026.

An accolade that Queen Elizabeth II would surely have approved of, in what would have been her 100th year.

It’s a 25-minute tram ride from Princes Street, where I’m staying at The Rutland Hotel — with super castle views.

The yacht features in season two of TV hit The Crown and is a huge draw for tourists.

WAIL OF A TIME

I drove Irish Route 66 with deserted golden beaches and pirate-like islands


TEMPTED?

Tiny ‘Bali of Europe’ town with stunning beaches, €3 cocktails and £20 flights

Built in 1953 in Clydebank, Glasgow, Britannia sailed more than a million nautical miles during her 44-year reign over the waves and accompanied the Royal Family on 968 state visits to 135 countries.

Her new £3million visitor centre leads with a photo-heavy exhibition about the ship’s history, including an interesting Day In The Life Of Queen Elizabeth II.

An excellent audio tour then guides me through the five decks on board.

On the bridge, I sit in the captain’s chair overlooking a rather grey Firth of Forth and imagine the sights seen from here over the years, such as the Sydney Opera House and Hong Kong skyline.

A modest royal cabin Credit: Supplied
The regal state dining room Credit: Supplied

But the Queen simply adored sailing around the Hebrides on her annual royal holiday, which she described as “the one place I can truly relax”.

Walking the scrubbed teak decks, I get a glimpse of royal life on board this floating palace.

There’s Her Majesty’s office, where she would work each day, and the Sun Room — a teak-panelled lounge with bar and rum tub said to have been the Queen’s favourite spot on the ship.

It overlooks the Veranda Deck, where Prince Philip would set up his easel to paint.

I can picture myself playing quoits with Princess Anne or enjoying a Dubonnet and a game of whist with Princess Margaret.

On board, it’s like time has stood still.

Not least because every clock is set at 3.01pm, when the Queen and Prince Philip disembarked for the final time on December 11, 1997.

Echoing the plush decor found in other royal homes, the State Drawing Room is the family room. In the corner is a Welmar baby grand piano — bolted to the floor to withstand the waves — which was played over the years by guests including playwright Noel Coward and Princess Diana.

The Vestibule Deck has the State Apartments — including the somewhat modest adjoining cabins of the Queen and Prince Philip, with single beds.

Only one suite has a double bed — installed on request by Prince Charles for his first honeymoon.

The Sun’s Tracey Davies sits on the bridge with a sea view Credit: Supplied
The Royal Yacht Britannia has been named the World’s Best Attraction at TripAdvisor’s The Travellers’ Choice Awards 2026 Credit: Marc Millar/Royal Yacht Brittania

Like Princess Margaret, I’m also partial to a pre-lunch sharpener.

The Royal Deck Tearoom serves her favourite Dubonnet cocktail (£16), as well as Moet by the glass or bottle (£15/£78), and a great coronation chicken sandwich (£10).

But the State Dining Room — rarely open to us commoners — is where VIP guests, such as Sir Winston Churchill, would dine with the Royal Family.

Below deck, I wind through the galley, laundry and medical room — with operating theatre — to discover how the 220-strong crew ran the ship like clockwork.

In the gift shop, you can get everything from a stuffed corgi (£25) to a Launer handbag (£2,850), a favourite of Her Maj.

As the State Apartments are not yet on Airbnb, you can enjoy a similar experience nearby at The Fingal, a former lighthouse tender turned luxury floating hotel.

GO: LEITH

GETTING THERE: Advance tickets from London to Edinburgh Waverley Station from £41.40 each way.

See lner.co.uk.

STAYING THERE: The Rutland Hotel has B&B doubles from £250 per night, therutlandhotel.com. The Fingal has cabins from £264.

See fingal.co.uk.

OUT AND ABOUT: Tour Royal Yacht Britannia from £25 for adults and £12.50 for children aged 7-15.

See royalyachtbritannia.co.uk.

MORE INFO: See edinburgh.org.

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Reality star Maura Higgins asks former Strictly Come Dancing pro to help her train for US version of show

REALITY star Maura Higgins has asked former Strictly Come Dancing pro Karen Hauer to help her train for the US version of the show.

The Love Islander will start filming for Dancing with the Stars in America in July.

Maura Higgins has asked a former Strictly Come Dancing pro for help training Credit: Getty
She asked former Strictly pro Karen Hauer to help her train for the US version of the show Credit: BBC

But she has already begun training in London with Karen, 44, who was axed from the BBC1 show this year.

An insider said: “Maura is a complete novice when it comes to dancing so Karen has kindly offered to show her the ropes and teach her the basics.

“Maura is determined not to be the first voted off so is giving it her all.

“She has her sights set on becoming a huge star in America.”

READ MORE ON MAURA HIGGINS

SHOW ME MAUR

Maura Higgins, Demi Moore & Heidi Klum dazzle on red carpet at Cannes


MAUR STYLE

Maura Higgins seen for the first time since quitting Love Island USA job

Maura is walking away from Love Island USA Credit: Getty
Karen was axed from Strictly this year Credit: BBC

Earlier this year Maura, 35, lost out in the final of the US version of The Traitors.

We revealed this week how Maura  is walking away from Love Island USA.

She revealed that she’s ready for a fresh start after three years.

Speaking to Vulture about whether fans would see her back on screens this summer, she said: “You won’t. I’ve done it for three years, and they’ll always be family to me, but I think it’s time to try something different.

“I’ve got amazing opportunities coming in the door.

“I think it’s time to say good-bye. But you know what? I won’t say forever.”

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Love Island All Stars couple SPLIT after five months after struggling to keep up their long-distance romance

LOVE Island stars Whitney Adebayo and Yamen Sanders have split after five months.

The pair found love in the ITV All Stars villa in South Africa in January – finishing in fifth place.

Whitney Adebayo and Yamen Sanders at carnival in Jamaica.
Whitney Adebayo and Yamen Sanders have split after five months Credit: Instagram
'Love Island All Stars' TV Show, Series 3, Live Final, South Africa - 23 Feb 2026
The pair found love in the ITV All Stars villa in South Africa Credit: Shutterstock Editorial

However, rumours have swirled of their break-up after the couple were navigating a long-distance relationship.

Whitney was based in the UK while American footballer Yamen was in the US.

A source told me: “Whitney and Yamen did try and put everything into their relationship.

“But it has inevitably been tough to keep up their romance long-distance.

OH MA-YA MY

Maya Jama stuns in pink PVC dress as she counts down to Love Island in video


YAS HOT

Love Island’s Yasmin looks incredible in thong bikini

“Whitney has been spending more time with her girls and has been leaning on them while navigating her break-up.”

Earlier this week, Whitney was spotted on TikTok with fellow Love Island star Millie Court having a girly night in.

The pair were seen in their pyjamas clinking glasses of red wine together with the audio ‘so we’re going to heal’ playing.

Sounds like Whitney has a hot girl summer pending.

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Paris Fury talks Molly Mae Hague feud & reveals truth about why brother-in-law Tommy was no show at Venezuela’s wedding

PARIS Fury has revealed why Tommy Fury wasn’t at Venezuela’s wedding after his pregnant fiancée Molly-Mae Hague flew to the venue by private jet.

The proud mother-of-the-bride showered Molly, 26, with praise for going above and beyond to make it to Venezuela’s big day, while Tommy was nowhere to be seen.

Paris Fury said she was very impressed by Molly, who travelled by private jet to the wedding Credit: Splash
Bambi was one of Venezuela’s bridesmaids for the big day Credit: Splash

Molly, who is heavily pregnant with her second child, was seen stepping onto the runway with her daughter Bambi, 3, and sister Zoe Rae.

The extravagant soiree is taking place at The Comis Hotel and Resort on the outskirts of Douglas, Isle of Man.

In awe of Molly, Paris told The Sun: “She is incredible. She is being fully supportive, and she is bringing Bambi over, so that Bambi could be a bridesmaid with the kids.

“But I have got to throw her props. She is making that journey while heavily pregnant and I wouldn’t have been able to face that while I was at her term of pregnancy.

Venezuela said ‘I do’ to her husband Noah Price, on the Isle of Man Credit: PP.
Molly-Mae’s fiancé, Tommy Fury wasn’t able to join the wedding celebrations Credit: Splash

“It’s very good,” Paris added.

Molly’s fiancé, Tommy, 27, Tyson’s younger brother, wasn’t able to join in the festivities.

Tommy, who Molly met on the reality TV hit in 2019, had to stay in Manchester for his boxing training camp.

She says: “I’m very glad that they are coming. It means a lot. It’s a big journey for anyone to come from home to here.

Venezuela with husband Noah Price, in a custom-made bridal gown Credit: PP.
Molly-Mae and Tommy are expecting their second baby Credit: mollymae/Instagram

“It’s lovely that they are making the effort. It’s lovely that Bambi and the other little girls all get to be bridesmaids. They are all cousins and it’s sweet that they‘ll make memories together.”

Bambi is one of 13 of the child bridesmaids, including Venezuela’s little sisters Valencia, eight, and Athena, including four of Noah’s cousins, and family members, as well as five grown up bridesmaids.

Venezuela revealed: “I chose powder blue cupcake dresses for the little ones, they’re really cute, and fitted gowns for my friends.”

Paris said: “Evangeline Designs in Liverpool made the bridesmaid dresses and every day there it was like, ‘There’s a new little dress, there’s a new dress there’s a new dress, because we ended up having a few extra little bridesmaids’.

“They’re wearing flowers in their hair.”

Paris revealed: “We found £120 shoes for the little ones, and the only shoes we found in the right shade of blue for the women were stunning shoes that were £13 from Shein.”

Paris stored all the wedding party outfits in a specially allocated wedding room in the basement of their home.

Paris and Venezuela thoughtfully put together goodie bags, which included diamante Primark flip flops, matching pyjamas, a hairbrush, sweets, Doll beauty make up and a “little dolly” for each of the younger bridesmaids.

And it wasn’t just the women who dazzled on Venezuela’s big day. The men were looking just as dapper.

“The men are in black tuxedos, Tyson too and Noah is in an ivory tuxedo. Noah picked it,” Paris said.

“Collecting everything wasn’t easy. I felt like I was doing circles on ferries with carloads.”

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10 last-minute holidays you can still book for May half term from French seaside resorts to new Med hotels

FANCY grabbing a last-minute break during May half-term?
There are lots of late deals offering adventures and attractions galore.

Cruise on a fabulous liner, escape to the countryside, explore a city or bed down in a zoo. Trisha Harbord selects ten top getaways for all budgets, at home and abroad.

FRENCH FANCY

Le Touquet is holding a British Week over half-term

OOH la la! The French seaside resort of Le Touquet will be holding a British Week from May 25 to 31.

There will be a host of activities delivered in English, such as guided horse rides, while the seven miles of coastline and dunes make Le Touquet perfect for sand-yachting.

The resort, an hour’s drive from Calais, has over 70 restaurants, for all tastes and budgets.

GO: Two nights’ room-only at the 3* ibis Styles, for two adults and two children, is from £366. See all.accor.com. Return ferry from Dover costs from £118. See irishferries.com.

BEACH PLEASE

Spanish TUI hotel to reopen next summer for adults only and it’s on the beach


RETREAT YOURSELF

From St Lucia to Ibiza – we tried 2 adults-only retreats for perfect reset

CRUISE CONTROL

We really rate the no-fly MSC voyages on super-modern Virtuosa Credit: Supplied

YOU can’t beat a cruise for having everything on tap, and we really rate the no-fly MSC voyages on super-modern Virtuosa.

Enjoy five pools, a waterpark, clubs for kids, superb shows and an indoor promenade with restaurants, bars and shops.

The ship, sailing from Southampton, also has the first humanoid robotic bartender at sea, who shakes and stirs cocktails.

GO: Two nights’ full-board from May 23 costs from £265pp. Five nights from May 25, visiting four ports including Bruges and Rotterdam, costs from £541pp. See cruise.co.uk.

MINT IMPERIAL

Enjoy a luxury break at the Imperial Island Resort in Paphos Credit: Supplied

SPOIL yourself at the 5* Imperial Island Resort in Paphos, which reopened this week. Everything has been upgraded, from the rooms to the food, spa and kids’ clubs.

There are new outdoor play areas at the Cyprus hotel and numerous sports on offer.

Soak up the sun on the adjacent beach or head to Paphos Archaeological Museum and the medieval fort that overlooks the harbour.

GO: Seven nights’ all-inclusive, based on two adults and two children sharing a superior family room, plus Gatwick flights on May 24, is from £1,072pp. See easyjet.com/en/holidays.

ITALIAN JOB

Take the kids on a cultural trip to Rome Credit: Unknown

THERE aren’t many kids who don’t like pizza, pasta and ice cream – and they can have all those on a cultural trip to Rome.

The Vatican museums, beautiful Sistine Chapel, St Peter’s Basilica and the Colosseum amphitheatre are all must-sees.

There are also many children’s attractions, including interactive museums about everything from video games to illusions.

GO: Three nights’ B&B at the 3* Hotel Morgana, including flights from Birmingham on May 25, costs from £469pp, based on a family of four. See jet2holidays.com.

STAR PLAYA

You won’t get bored at the Vibra Caleta Playa apartments in Menorca Credit: Supplied

MENORCA may be one of the quieter Balearic Islands, but you won’t be bored here.

Choose from lying on the beach or going hiking, cycling or horse riding.

The 3H Vibra Caleta Playa apartments, surrounding a pool with kids’ area, all have air-con, kitchenettes and a balcony or terrace.

They are close to a sandy cove in Santandria and the historic former capital, Ciutadella.

GO: Five nights’ self-catering in a one-bed apartment for two adults and children, including flights from Gatwick on May 24, costs from £442 per person. See firstchoice.co.uk.

GO FOR ’BROKE

Enjoy a great deal at Pembrokeshire’s Ty Hotel Milford and take the kids kayaking Credit: Owen Howells

THERE’S a great deal from Pembrokeshire’s 4* Ty Hotel Milford Waterfront, with kids staying free during half-term.

The offer at the hotel, which overlooks the Milford Haven marina, runs rom May 22 to 31.

If the children love dinosaurs, be there on May 27 when Dinomania comes to town.

You can also rent kayaks from the beach activity centre, visit the maritime heritage museum, go hiking or enjoy ten-pin bowling.

GO: A family room for two adults and two children, including breakfast, is from £104. See ty-hotels.com and milfordwaterfront.co.uk.

RURAL SAVINGS

Enjoy up to 30 per cent off countryside breaks with Landal Credit: Supplied

GET back to nature with up to 30 per cent off countryside breaks with Landal, which has resorts in areas including Yorkshire, Cumbria, Northamptonshire and Scotland.

Woodland Lakes, near Thirsk, North Yorks, has indoor pool, kids’ play areas, archery, fishing and a wellness centre.

It’s close to the North York Moors and the Yorkshire Dales and only a half-hour drive from the historic city of York.

GO: Four nights’ self-catering in a lodge sleeping four people from May 25 costs from £639. See landal.co.uk.

PIER WE GO

Head to Great Yarmouth for an unforgettable time with the family Credit: Unknown

IT should be a great week in Great Yarmouth, with plenty to do in the Norfolk resort.

A pantomime of The Wizard Of Oz is being performed at Britannia Pier’s theatre between May 28 and 31, and the town has a festival of circus and arts from May 28 to 30.

Stay at Richardson’s Hemsby Beach holiday park and you’ll be spoiled for family-friendly activities, too.

GO: Four nights’ self-catering in a two- bedroom chalet from May 25 costs from £419. Details at richardsonsholidayparks.co.uk and visitgreatyarmouth.co.uk.

SHOW STOPPERS

Telly favourites are appearing at Butlin’s Credit: Supplied

TELLY favourites are appearing at Butlin’s, and there are three-night late deals from £48pp. Headline acts include The Masked Singer Live and the new Maximum Pro Wrestling show.

The resorts – in Skegness, Lincs, Somerset’s Minehead and Bognor Regis in West Sussex – also boast Splash Waterworld pools with slides, unlimited fairground rides and soft-play areas for kids.

GO: Three nights for four people sharing a two-bedroom Comfort room in Minehead from May 29 costs from £192. For more information or to book, see butlins.com.

WHERE THE ART IS

Have a roaring time at Whipsnade Zoo Credit: Supplied

HELP Whipsnade Zoo roar into the Guinness World Records book as one of more than 14,000 people taking part in a paint-by- numbers challenge from May 23 to 31.

The masterpiece featuring 200 animals will celebrate the 200th birthday of ZLS – the conservation charity behind the Bedfordshire zoo.

Families picking up a brush will need to register on the GWR Verify app. Stay overnight in one of the zoo’s lodges and enjoy zoo tickets, private tours, breakfast and dinner.

GO: A lodge for two adults and two children is from £520. See whipsnadezoo.org.

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Reason Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce made whirlwind trip to ‘special place’ London revealed

TAYLOR SWIFT and fiancé Travis Kelce were snapped on a whirlwind trip to London last week – and I can reveal why they were in town.

The couple are planning a wedding party at celeb haunt The Chiltern Firehouse in August, a month after their upcoming New York nuptials.

Taylor Swift and fiancé Travis Kelce were snapped on a whirlwind trip to London last week Credit: Getty
The celebrity couple are planning a wedding party at celeb haunt The Chiltern Firehouse in August Credit: Getty

The American lovebirds met the venue’s owner, US hotelier Andre Balazs, to discuss their VIP soiree for 120 guests.

The Chiltern restaurant and hotel remains shut to the public after a pizza-oven fire wrecked it early last year, but it is in the market for one-off events.

Noel Gallagher threw a bash there to mark the end of the US leg of the Oasis reunion tour.

The visit by Taylor and Kansas City Chiefs American football star Travis follows reports they will tie the knot in July in New York after getting engaged last year.

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An insider said: “London holds a huge place in Taylor’s heart and she has so many British friends who she wants to celebrate with.

“Travis and Taylor partied at the Chiltern two years ago following her Eras tour dates at Wembley, and it is a special place for her.

“They are working on a personalised menu with bespoke cocktails and carefully selected wines.

“They’re looking at entertainment options but Taylor obviously has lots of talented friends in the music industry so it’s likely some could end up performing.”

I’m told she was hoping to use the venue’s five-star hotel rooms, too, but they have not yet reopened.

Guests will include UK stars Cara Delevingne, Kate Moss, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Ed Sheeran and Stella McCartney.

Before Travis, Taylor dated a string of Brits — The 1975 frontman Matty Healy, actors Joe Alwyn and Tom Hiddleston, DJ Calvin Harris and Harry Styles.

She has also written songs London Boy and So Long, London.

Now that she has finally found her forever man, I am so pleased she plans to celebrate in our capital.

Zara’s on a high

Zara Larsson looked stunning in yellow as she put on a performance in New York City Credit: Getty
Zara was worried because she said her voice was ‘literally gone’ the morning of the performance Credit: Alamy

ZARA LARSSON rides the wave as she kicks off US TV channel Today’s Citi Summer Concert Series in New York City.

But the Swedish pop star, who looked stunning in a yellow skirt and matching top, almost had to pull out of the performance.

She told her fans on Instagram: “I was sooo nervous this morning because my voice was literally gone!

“But we pushed through. I had so much fun! Thank you to everyone for pulling up on me so early.”

Nic ‘n’ Tom have dare necessity

Olympic boxing champ Nicola Adams is set to compete on Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins Credit: Getty
Apprentice star Thomas Skinner will also be attempting the toughest show on TV Credit: Splash

IT is known as the toughest show on TV – but ahead of the new series of Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins, I can reveal at least two of the contestants, Olympic boxing champ Nicola Adams and Apprentice star Thomas Skinner, reckon they have the steel to prevail.

A source said: “Tom has been training hard with a weighted vest in preparation for the show, and Nicola is no stranger to an intense training regime.”

The pair will join Towie legend Amy Childs and Married At First Sight star Ella Morgan in competing on the Channel 4 military-style challenge.

Meanwhile, singer Jojo Siwa and former Strictly pro dancer Giovanni Pernice are also lined up to take part.

Filming is taking place this summer in Malaysia, for the ninth series, which is expected to air next year.

Olivia in full bloom

Olivia Rodrigo looked super cute in dainty florals during a performance in Spain Credit: Getty
The Drop Dead singer wore a pink mini dress and black leather boots Credit: Getty

OLIVIA RODRIGO looks super cute in dainty florals during a performance in Spain.

The Drop Dead singer wore a pink mini dress and black leather boots to play a Spotify Billions Club Live show in Barcelona.

The concert on Friday night kicked off El Clasico weekend ahead of the match between Barcelona and Real Madrid today.

The American hitmaker, who embarks on her Unraveled Tour in September, also posed with her nine Spotify plaques to commemorate her songs which have surpassed a billion streams.

Stones play Amy tribute

The Rolling Stones plan to cover an Amy Winehouse song on their new album Foreign Tongues Credit: Getty
The legendary group will pay tribute to Amy’s 2007 track You Know I’m No Good Credit: Getty

THE ROLLING STONES cover a song by the late Amy Winehouse on their new album, Foreign Tongues.

Out on July 10, it will see Sir Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood, pay tribute to Amy’s 2007 track You Know I’m No Good.

Sir Mick performed a duet with Amy during the Stones’ set at the Isle of Wight Festival in 2007, four years before she died aged 27.

The album’s track list which was leaked by fans, also features lead single In The Stars and song Back In Your Life.

The latter has a guitar solo by Ronnie inspired by The Beach Boys star Brian Wilson – and it was recorded on the day Brian died, aged 82, in June last year.

Hit Me In The Head includes old recordings in Los Angeles with the late Stones drummer Charlie Watts, who died in 2021, aged 80.

Last month the band released another album track, Rough And Twisted, on vinyl under pseudonym The Cockroaches.

Dec 10 in secret filming

DECEMBER 10 have secretly filmed a music video for their hot new single Infinity (123).

I can reveal that the boys – Cruz, Danny, Hendrik, Sean, John, Josh and Nicolas – jetted to Palma, Mallorca to shoot the promo which will be released on Friday.

It comes as the band gear up for their first appearance at Capital’s Summertime Ball next month and the Summer Sonic festival in Japan in August.

Biz on Sunday’s Emily was lucky enough to catch up with the boys at their gig at the O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire last month.

And they will be returning to the London venue in July, for two sold-out nights.

Looks like they have a jam-packed summer.

Tom: Paul and I may be family

Tom Grennan says he may have a family connection to Irish actor Paul Mescal Credit: Getty
Gladiator II star Paul bumped into Tom at a hurling event in Dublin last year Credit: Getty

TOM GRENNAN has revealed he could be related to Irish actor Paul Mescal.

The Little Bit Of Love hitmaker bumped into the Normal People star at the All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship final in Dublin last year.

And he told Cork’s 96FM radio station: “Paul was there and he was like, ‘Is your dad here?’.

“He said, ‘Mate, my dad has been going on about your dad and he wants to speak to him’.

“Apparently, there’s some sort of relation!”

Tom, who welcomed daughter Dotty with wife Danniella Carraturo last summer, is set to release an album this year inspired by becoming a dad.

Talking about fatherhood, he said: “It has definitely had an impact on my songwriting.

“It’s opened up another chamber in my heart.”

Ramsay’s kitchen rebels

Gordon Ramsay’s production company is creating a documentary about top chefs including Heston Blumenthal Credit: Alamy
Marco Pierre White is set to feature along with Gordon himself Credit: Getty

GORDON RAMSAY’s TV production company is making a fiery documentary series with the BBC about some of the biggest renegades in the restaurant world.

Rise Of The Rockstar Chefs will focus on Heston Blumenthal, Marco Pierre White, and, of course, Gordon himself.

A source said: “This bunch are set to lift the lid on their early days in the competitive restaurant world and share some of their juicy stories.”

Studio Ramsay’s glossy production will feature guest appearances from foodies Stanley Tucci, Prue Leith, and Pink Floyd‘s Nick Mason.

I’m told it’s set to air in the autumn.

‘Sore’ Stacey snubs BAFTAS

Stacey Solomon will not be attending this years BAFTA TV Awards Credit: Getty
Stacey was criticised for her emotional reaction to losing at last year’s ceremony Credit: Instagram

STACEY SOLOMON is snubbing this year’s BAFTA TV Awards after facing a backlash over her emotional reaction to losing at last year’s ceremony.

Instead of putting on a gown and trundling down the red carpet, the presenter is living her best life in Miami on a PAID Space NK brand trip with her kids. Good for her.

The Sort Your Life Out star was criticised online – with some trolls branding her a “sore loser” and a “spoiled brat” – after she admitted on Instagram that she was “devastated” her BBC show failed to win.

Although Sort Your Life Out was nominated in two categories, it missed out on a BAFTA, prompting Stacey to defend her hardworking team in the emotional video.

She said: “I know I’m supposed to take it gracefully like a champ, but I’ll be honest, I’m devastated.

“The crew also deserve the BAFTA after the effort they put into making the show.”

Other telly presenters giving this evening’s ceremony a miss are Rochelle Humes and Olivia Attwood, who are both joining Stacey in the sun.

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Candice Swanepoel stuns as she perches on seaside boulder in tiny bikinis from new range with Victoria’s Secret

MODEL Candice Swanepoel is rocking her new line in swimwear.

The 37-year-old perched on a seaside boulder to show off a bikini from her Tropic of C label’s collaboration with Victoria’s Secret.

Candice Swanepoel modeling a silver bikini with metal ring accents, against a sunset ocean backdrop.
Candice Swanepoel perched on a seaside boulder to show off a bikini from her new line Credit:
Candice Swanepoel in a snakeskin bikini, posing on a rock with the ocean and sunset in the background.
Candice’s swimwear is from her Tropic of C label’s collaboration with Victoria’s Secret Credit:

Her environmentally-friendly collection is called Elemental, which she said “blends Victoria’s Secret’s iconic femininity with Tropic of C’s elevated, sustainable sensibility”.

South African Candice added: “Sustainability is a key part of my lifestyle.”

Not only is Candice regularly lauded as one of the world’s sexiest women, her bank balance isn’t looking too bad either – in 2016 she was ranked by Forbes as the 8th highest-earning model on the planet.

She didn’t scale back her modelling following motherhood and has shifted more lingerie than any other model.

Candice is considered the world’s top lingerie model not just because she has the most followers but because her online posts have far more impact than her catwalk contemporaries.

She recently caught the eye wearing a red Baywatch-style swimsuit.

In 2022 she was linked with dating rapper Kanye West.

She was then claimed to have grown close to pop star Harry Styles.

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I visited the stunning Portugal resort that serves up celeb-spotting and fitness opportunities aplenty

Collage of a resort pool, a meal, and cabanas on a beach-like area.

Glancing up from my chilli-prawn-laden pizza, I spot Declan Donnelly and his wife strolling into KOKO, our lunch spot in Portugal’s Quinta do Lago Resort.

It seems I’ve stumbled across people-watching heaven – this place is a playground for the rich and famous, with celebs including Niall Horan and Holly Willoughby also known to holiday here.

The Magnolia Hotel is a white villa designed like a ’50s motel Credit: Supplied
Quinto do Lago Lake sits nearby Credit: Bernardo Lúcio

The setting is 15 minutes’ drive from Faro airport, where the landscape quickly transforms from rustic farmland to manicured streets, luxurious villas and luscious, green golf courses.

Designer-clad joggers take to the flower-lined paths, and sports cars meander down to the ocean.

If you didn’t know better, you could be driving through Palm Springs, not the Algarve.

My husband Grant and I have picked one of the more affordable stays – The Magnolia Hotel, a white villa designed like a ’50s motel, complete with illuminated sign and a kitsch, pastel interior.

BEACH PLEASE

Spanish TUI hotel to reopen next summer for adults only and it’s on the beach


MED FOR IT

We test two adults-only Mediterranean escapes from rooftop cool to beach bliss

Our favourite spot here soon becomes the sparkling pool, surrounded by bird of paradise plants, and boasting cabanas and a Balearic beats soundtrack.

Each morning, we find an abundant buffet, including top-notch ingredients for a full English, plus fruit, yoghurts, pastries and cheeses.

But the pièce de résistance are the cooked-to-order banana and toffee pancakes. Double rooms here cost from £124 B&B (Themagnoliahotelqdl.com).

Quinta do Lago itself is more like a town, so we hop on the hotel’s complimentary bikes to The Campus, a 15-minute ride away, to meet Luke, our calm and collected padel coach.

Enjoy a game of padel at The Campus Credit: Sinenkiy
Gorge on zesty prawn tacos washed down with frozen margaritas Credit: Andre Pires Santos

By the end of our hour’s lesson, £70, we’ve mastered both a rebound backhand and a volley (Thecampusqdl.com).

The next morning, we hire mountain bikes from The Bike Shed, £45 per day, to explore the boardwalks lining the beautiful Ria Formosa Natural Reserve, and spy a purple heron and Eurasian oystercatchers on our ride down to the white-sand beaches.

Quinto do Lago Lake sits nearby with seafood eatery Casa do Lago and trendy tiki bar The Shack either side of the crystal-clear water.

After paddling around in kayaks, lapping up views of the mansions lining the lake, £18 for 30 minutes (Arturwatersports academy.pt), we head to the latter and gorge on zesty prawn tacos, £17.50, washed down with frozen margaritas, £12.

Take on a Q Reformer Pilates 1-1 session Credit: Andre Pires Santos
Hire mountain bikes from The Bike Shed Credit: Supplied by Sasha Cunningham

All of the resort’s restaurants are overseen by British executive chef Gareth Billington.

At Casa Velha, we share beef pica pau, a traditional Portuguese dish served in garlic gravy, £16.50, while the delicate sole at Casa do Lago, £37, paired with tomato salad and roasted potatoes, both £4.50, is a real treat and prepared at our table.

I head back to The Campus to work off some of our feasts at a Q Reformer Pilates 1-1 session, £48 for one hour, where instructor Pedro really challenges my strength and agility, before I’m tempted again at boutique cafe Pure.

Sipping on prosecco in the sun, with an afternoon tea spread of coronation chicken wraps, smoked salmon on toast, quiche and an array of home-made cakes, £33, I resolve to book a Reformer class back home.

Still, what’s life without a little cake?

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The huge all-inclusive family resort that keeps kids busy the entire time

WE’VE all been there, desperately trying to lure the kids away from their devices.

But I’ve found the solution — head to all-inclusive activity specialists Club Med and there will be so much for them to do, the problem will be fitting it all in.

On target Piper tried archery Credit: Supplied
Corben had a ball and joined the Wolves academy Credit: Supplied

There’s nowhere better to tempt the kids away from tech than the golden sands of France’s Atlantic coast.

Sat somewhere between a 20-mile stretch of rugged coastline and the lush La Coubre forest, the world-class Club Med La Palmyre Atlantique is pure “Ooh La La”.

The resort itself looks a little like a chic oyster-farming village, with colourful bungalows scattered between lush trees and distant views of an old lighthouse atop a cliff.

Whether you’re keen to hire bikes and explore the nearby World War II bunker, or just stroll the beach to watch the famous Atlantic rollers with a book, holidays here can be taken at your pace.

WAIL OF A TIME

I drove Irish Route 66 with deserted golden beaches and pirate-like islands


TEMPTED?

Tiny ‘Bali of Europe’ town with stunning beaches, €3 cocktails and £20 flights

I was visiting with my wife Emma and two children Corben, 11, and Piper, nine, and we switched instantly into holiday mode on arrival.

The whole vibe was uber laid-back, despite being an action-packed resort full of families with kids.

And this is where Club Med truly earns its stripes.

Kids’ clubs here cater to all ages, offering arts and crafts, archery and table tennis — although they should be prepared that the resort is heavily French-speaking.

Wind down and relax by the pools Credit: Club Med
Piper loved horse riding Credit: Supplied

But the perk means they may pick up some Franglais.

There’s also a professional circus school where little ones can channel their inner Greatest Showman, as well as off-site horse riding.

Piper loved taking her horse Jacques on a ride into the woods.

The G.O.s (Gentils Organisateurs — meaning Kind Organisers) took her and a group of others to the ocean for a beach walk and sailing experience.

Meanwhile, my son Corben headed to the resort pitch to join the football camp hosted by Premier League club Wolverhampton Wanderers, and exclusive to Club Med.

Each day, the Wolves coaches ran sessions on dribbling, passing, ball control and shooting, followed by a series of mini games.

The Wolves academy split into age groups from four to 17-years-old from all levels, and my football-mad son loved every minute.

The relaxed vibe meant it didn’t matter whether your child was destined to be the next João Gomes or just loved a kickabout.

And at the end of the week, the young players were congratulated with an awards ceremony.

Best of all, this was included in Club Med’s all-inclusive package and didn’t cost a penny extra.

While the kids are kept busy, adults can kick back by the pool or play a round at the Golf de Palmyre nine-hole course just next door to the resort.

The 2,992-metre course is set around 93 acres of pine wood with water obstacles, large bunkers and rolling fairways.

Ryan, Emma and kids having fun Credit: Supplied
Zen out at the hotel spa Credit: Club Med

Some holes boast ocean views and the course is ideal for beginners, offering group or private lessons from age 11.

If you’d rather stick together as a family, however, there’s group tennis, archery, sailing and windsurfing, too.

Even the spa offers treatments you can enjoy with the children so we booked in for a family massage beside the beach.

After action-packed days, we would spend an hour or so relaxing ahead of dinner.

Our rooms were in The Dunes area, an upscale space for those who want a bit of extra luxury, and came with a small lounge area and pine forest views.

Then it was time to feast.

The main restaurant, L’Atlantique, offers an impressive buffet which includes fresh seafood, local oysters, steaks, salads and a huge dessert table.

The kids were horrified when I explained what escargot is and how foie gras is made but at least it wasn’t nuggets and chips.

Enjoy tipples at Club Med Credit: Club Med
Take in a round at Golf de Palmyre Credit: Club Med

For something a bit more upmarket, The Belle Époque speciality restaurant is perfect for a “date night” while the kids are at a supervised pyjama party.

This gourmet lounge serves up local Charentais wines and seafood with a view of the lighthouse.

And because it’s Club Med, the “all-inclusive” tag means exactly that.

Premium booze, cocktails, and snacks are all included.

Most nights a band played in the main bar and music went on ’til late but like most holidays with kids, Mum and Dad were shattered by 10pm.

Outside of the resort there’s plenty to do if you fancy exploring the region.

From the Île de Ré to the Île d’Oléron, from La Rochelle to Royan, the Atlantic coastline has tons to offer.

Book your family a ticket on “Le Train des Mouettes”, the 19th-century steam train, or climb to the top of the Phare de Cordouan, the lighthouse listed as a Unesco World Heritage Site.

It’s rare to find a resort that genuinely caters to every generation without feeling like a theme park.

But La Palmyre Atlantique manages to stay stylish and very French.

We returned home with a suntan, a slightly tighter waistband and kids who, for a second, forgot what an iPad is.

GO: FRANCE

GETTING THERE: Ryanair flies from Stansted to La Rochelle from £38 return.

See ryanair.com.

STAYING THERE: A seven-night stay at Club Med La Palmyre Atlantique starts from £952pp, based on a family of four sharing.

See clubmed.co.uk or call 03453 676767.

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I stayed in England’s most easterly town that’s had a huge makeover

IF your Great British getaway needs a glow-up, look no further than England’s most easterly town.

Lowestoft in Suffolk has had a mega refresh, with millions of pounds poured into its seafront, caravan site and theme park.

Lowestoft’s seafront and the Claremont Pier Credit: Supplied
The colourful seafront beach huts Credit: Supplied

When I headed there with my family of five, the town’s revival was apparent from the moment we rolled into Park Holidays’ Pakefield caravan park.

It is tucked away in a quiet patch south of the main town centre where it overlooks the sea and is surrounded by open fields.

And it has had more than just a lick of paint.

A £6million cash injection has seen the addition of a heated indoor pool, toddler splash zone, playground, arcade and bar/restaurant.

WAIL OF A TIME

I drove Irish Route 66 with deserted golden beaches and pirate-like islands


TEMPTED?

Tiny ‘Bali of Europe’ town with stunning beaches, €3 cocktails and £20 flights

Wandering around the park, one notices an upmarket vibe.

The lobby has a high-spec finish and the attention to detail here is fantastic.

The luxe feel then continues in the new caravans, with large beds and master en-suites.

If your goal is to unwind, then you won’t be disappointed.

The park is less about pumping out late-night music than delivering holiday-site staples — pool, arcade, bar and karts — to a high standard.

The Coastal Bar and Restaurant hosts Saturday night entertainment for the whole family — which includes furry friends, with dog beds dotted around the terrace.

The spongy floor of the new pool felt lovely underfoot and made the splash area very safe for little ones, while the changing rooms were the cleanest I’ve ever encountered.

If you fancy heading out for the day, the lovely seaside village of Pakefield, near Lowestoft, is well worth a visit.

You can walk straight out of the caravan park on to the King Charles III England Coast Path.

Keep your eyes peeled for Salty Sauna, a mini wood-fired sauna that can be booked for public or private sessions.

The upmarket vibe high street has sculpture Credit: Supplied
The town has a rich maritime history Credit: Supplied

If you wander along the beach up to Lowestoft, you’ll come to the Jubilee Parade pavilion, which is on the cusp of completion.

The two-storey restaurant-and-cafe complex includes a lift connecting the upper esplanade to the lower promenade, making access easier.

It’s set next to the futuristic Eastern Edge beach huts, which can be hired for the day.

Another spot that comes highly recommended by locals is the overhauled East Point Pavilion, an ornate glass Victorian-inspired venue that overlooks the sea and hosts concerts and makers’ markets.

And new art gallery Messums East is just about to open at the site of the old Post Office.

If you’re looking for more thrills, head to the Pleasurewood Hills theme park which sits on the coast between Lowestoft and Great Yarmouth.

Brothers Freddy, Spencer and Davis Stokes took over the site at the end of last year and have already installed three new rides, with a spinning coaster on the cards for later this year.

The park has something for everyone.

Furry friends enjoy beach Credit: Supplied
The overhauled East Point Pavilion, an ornate glass Victorian-inspired venue that overlooks the sea and hosts concerts and makers’ markets Credit: Alamy

We stayed for most of the day and still didn’t make it round all the rides, despite there being next to no queues.

The chairlift that carries you from one side of the park to the other was a throwback to my childhood holidays, while my boys loved the adrenaline rides, including the 30 metre-high Riptide and huge, looping coaster, Wipeout.

As the easternmost point of England, Lowestoft celebrates welcoming the earliest sunrise to our shores, with its First Light beach festival in June.

Likewise, there is definitely a new dawn afoot for this coastal town.

GO: LOWESTOFT

STAYING THERE: Four nights’ self-catering at Park Holidays Pakefield is from £129 in total for a six-person Gold Caravan, for arrival on May 18.

See parkholidays.com.

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Hardman Jason Statham buys stunning £20m home on UK seaside with model partner Rosie Huntington-Whitely

MOVIE hardman Jason Statham and his model partner Rosie ­Huntington-Whiteley have bought a £20million beachfront “forever home” — and are spending another £5million renovating it.

The actor, who has two children with fiancée Rosie, bought the six-bedroom mansion in the South of England, Land Registry records reveal.

Jason Statham and his model partner Rosie ­Huntington-Whiteley have bought a £20million beachfront ‘forever home’ Credit: Getty
The couple are spending another £5million renovating the house

The contemporary new-build is set on 20 acres and has its own private beach, ­enormous tree house, boating lake and wild swimming pond.

Building work has been going on for some time, with experts estimating a further £5million is being spent.

Public records show Jason, 58, who has amassed a £90million fortune from movies including the Fast and Furious franchise, Snatch and Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, paid £20million for the site in 2024.

He has always been upfront about his life goals, saying: “I just want to work hard, make money and eat with good people and love the same woman over and over again.”

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Several high-profile celebrities also own homes in the area. Jason also has extensive properties in Hollywood and Cornwall.

The couple, who have a home in London, met at a party in 2009 and got engaged in 2016.

Jason also has extensive properties in Hollywood and Cornwall Credit: Alamy
Rosie has a £30million fortune via fashion collaborations with M&S and ­Burberry, and acting roles Credit: AFP or licensors

Rosie, 39, has a £30million fortune via fashion collaborations with M&S and ­Burberry, and acting roles in Transformers: Dark of the Moon and Mad Max: Fury Road.

She recently revealed she was moving to the countryside.

Rosie said: “I’ve been dreaming of this since I left home.

“It will be mud and kids climbing trees.” The couple were approached for comment.

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Bros legend Matt Goss reveals terrifying moment he fought off muggers trying to steal his Rolex

MATT GOSS has revealed how he bravely stood up to muggers who tried to steal his gold Rolex watch.

The former Bros singer sat down with Biz On Sunday’s Emily to speak about the scary incident, which occurred while he was walking his dog Reggie with fiancée Chantal Brown.

Former Bros singer Matt Goss has revealed how he fought off muggers trying to steal his rolex Credit: Paul Harries
Matt told Biz On Sunday’s Emily Webber that he would love to reunite on stage with his brother Luke again Credit: Supplied

Matt, who is back in the studio at London’s famous Abbey Road, said: “We were approached by two people asking for directions.

“We were friendly and tried to help them, but when I pointed the way, they noticed the watch on my wrist.

“One of them immediately became aggressive, trying to distract me by dancing while also grabbing at my wrist.

“I reacted instinctively and, feeling threatened, pushed my head into his before telling him firmly: ‘Don’t you dare’.

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OLIVIA’S IN DE-NILE

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“Chantal and I then went straight into a nearby hotel and called the police.”

Matt, who was born in Lewisham, South East London, where he grew up with twin brother and fellow Bros star Luke Goss, said he would like to see more police on the streets.

He added: “I do feel safe in London overall, but I find it sad that, in such a beautiful city, you can’t always wear something nice without concern.

“I truly wish we still had more bobbies on the beat, with that sense of community, presence and understanding of the local area.”

Matt is back in the UK after spending 25 years in America, where he had a highly successful residency in Las Vegas for 11 years.

His new track, Thank You For The Pain, is out now and will form part of his upcoming album scheduled for September 29.

Matt said: “It’s back to commercial music. I love performing live and I loved the Vegas show and I am super proud of that.

“But there is something about going in the doors at Abbey Road that gives you a sense of occasion and, ‘you better bring your A-game’. It really makes you step up more because of the history.”

He added: “You are going into your church and you are baring all and being extremely truthful. Thank You For The Pain is about turning your pain into something that makes you a better person.

“We have all been hurt by people and that song really helps you recognise what hurts makes you stronger.”

Matt sold 17million records in the Eighties boyband Bros, with the brothers making their big breakthrough in 1988 with Top Ten single When Will I Be Famous?

But after the boyband split up in 1992, the pair went their separate ways until reforming in 2017 to play two dates at London’s O2 Arena.

The lead-up to the comeback was filmed for documentary Bros: After The Screaming Stops, which also showed the ongoing tension between the twins.

Matt revealed in 2024 that they were “completely estranged”.

But he is hopeful that they may manage to sort out their differences and step out on stage together once again.

He said: “I would love nothing more than to jump on stage with my brother again, I’m pretty sure we don’t hate each other but we have stuff to sort out.

“I believe there is respect for each other. I’d love to do Glastonbury with my brother.”


MATT GOSS has given Biz On Sunday readers the first full clip of his new video, Thank You For The Pain. It is Matt’s first animated video and is created by Nobody Asked Studios.

A source said: “Matt is a huge fan of Nobody Asked Studios and the track worked perfectly with the animated style.”


Millie’s book Taylor made

Millie Mackintosh is working on a new book following her recent split from Hugo Taylor Credit: Getty

NEWLY single heiress Millie Mackintosh plans to put pen to paper following her recent split from Hugo Taylor.

The ex-Made In Chelsea star is working with publisher Little, Brown Group on a new book.

A source said: “Millie’s been through a lot in the last year and she’s writing it all down.

“Her first book was about her sobriety, but this one will look at motherhood, her ADHD diagnosis and the changes in her personal life, including her split from Hugo.

“Writing is very cathartic for Millie, so it’s also helping her process what’s been going on in her life. She will reveal a lot about the breakdown of her marriage and there will likely be a few surprises.

“Millie really wants to be honest and relatable.”

The book comes after Millie’s first husband, rapper Professor Green, gushed about her recently . . . 

Zara’s Shak for more

Zara Larsson has joined forces with Shakira to remix her track Eurosummer Credit: Instagram
Shakira reached out to congratulate pal Zara on the track’s release Credit: Instagram

ZARA LARSSON and Shakira look summer ready after collaborating on a new song.

The Swedish pop star has remixed her track Eurosummer with the Hips Don’t Lie hitmaker.

It comes as Zara releases remix album Midnight Sun: Girls Trip featuring Pinkpantheress, Tyla and Robyn.

Shakira posted on Instagram: “Happy release day, Zara Larsson. Can’t wait for our video to come out.

“In the meantime, starting my Euro summer from Rio.”

Dean’s back on market

HE is known for being a ladies’ man, but it looks like former EastEnders star Dean Gaffney is single once again.

I can reveal that he has split from Harvard graduate Kate Black after dating for a year.

A source said: “Dean and Kate have agreed to go their separate ways.
“They enjoyed a whirlwind romance, but decided that their relationship was more friendly.

“Kate wasn’t Dean’s usual type, but he learned a lot from her.”

Kate studied international relations at the top US university and artificial intelligence at the University of York.

A mutual pal introduced them and they started dating in April last year, a month after she split from her long-term boyfriend.

Last June, Dean, who played market sweeper Robbie Jackson in the BBC One soap, was spotted on holiday in Ibiza with Kate.

DJ Greg: Will.I.Am so rude

RADIO 1 DJ GREG JAMES has named The Voice coach Will.I.am as one of the worst famous people he’s ever met and described his music as “s**t”.

Speaking at an intimate gig in North London for the launch of his book, All The Best For The Future, he said: “Will.i.am was a nightmare and he was rude.

“He barged into the studio and had his Bluetooth headset on, even though I was trying to interview him.

“He didn’t say hello to anyone in the room and he was just ignoring everyone.

“Eventually he sat down and took his headset off and I had to interview him. Mad, and his songs are s**t aren’t they? Apart from his Black Eyed Peas track I Gotta Feeling, if we’re being really honest with ourselves.”

I have to disagree. Scream & Shout and Heartbreaker are both bangers…

Stones face music for album launch

The Rolling Stones have teased the cover for their new album Foreign Tongues Credit: Instagram
The Rolling Stones’ album will be released in July and a clock is ticking down Credit: Getty

THE ROLLING STONES have teased the cover for their much-anticipated new album as they prepared for its press launch this week.

A poster appeared on social media yesterday showing Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood imagined as one face. The eyecatching design was dreamt up by American painter Nathaniel Mary Quinn.

On Tuesday, the band will hold the press launch of the new record, Foreign Tongues, in New York. Then, on Wednesday, Mick Jagger will appear on The Tonight Show, hosted by Jimmy Fallon.

The US TV star presented a global press conference in 2023 in East London for the band’s last album, Hackney Diamonds.

A countdown clock for the new record, out on July 10, has now appeared outside the group’s merchandise store on London’s Carnaby Street. It also shows the album’s title written in a variety of different languages.

One staff member claimed everyone was sworn to secrecy, adding: “I plead the Fifth Amendment.”

Another said: “They have not told us anything in case it backfires on them.”

And, yet again, the band have also updated their famous tongue logo, originally created by British art student John Pasche in 1970.

Last month, The Stones released a vinyl-only single, Rough & Twisted, under the pseudonym The Cockroaches. Meanwhile, I revealed that PAUL McCARTNEY will also feature on a new album track following his cameo on Hackney Diamonds.

Sounds like this is going to be the album of the year.

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From Harry Potter to H&M

STEPPING through the floo network into the Ministry Of Magic, I feel like I’ve been transported straight on to the Harry Potter film set.

The attention to detail is next-level, even down to the sheer size of the building I’m standing in.

Epic Universe’s Helios Grand Hotel at Universal Studios Orlando Resort Credit: Supplied by Universal Destinations & Experiences PR
Super Nintendo World Credit: KILBY_PHOTO

Surrounded by green subway tiles, ginormous gold ornate statues of magical creatures and hanging banners featuring some of Azkaban’s Most Wanted, the magic really has come alive.

So much so that, as a huge Potter fan, I find myself choking back tears.

Feeling Epic

Join Walt and Mickey at the Magic Kingdom Credit: Matt Stroshane, Photographer
The Dragon Racer’s Rally ride is epic! Credit: KILBY PHOTO

My friends and I are at Epic Universe, which opened in Orlando last year.

After exploring 1920s Paris, Fantastic-Beasts-style, we head to Nintendo World to ride on Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, where VR really does make me feel like I’ve been dropped into the game.

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Later, in the How To Train Your Dragon zone, Hiccup’s Wing Gliders is a super-fun coaster I want to ride again and again.

However, nothing quite hits the adrenalin high of Stardust Racers – a mega coaster in the park’s centre that reaches speeds of 62mph and heights of up to 133 feet, with spins and turns aplenty.

All this excitement leaves us needing a tipple, and the best place to take in the view of the park at night with a glass of pale rosé, £13, in hand, is Bar Helios at the top of the Helios Grand Hotel.

We’re staying a five-minute shuttle ride away at Terra Luna Resort, which also opened last year.

Designed in the colours of the solar system, my room features a spaceship-style window looking out on to Epic Universe.

Double rooms at Terra Luna start from £119 per night (Universalorlando.com).

Walt a ride

A visit to EPCOT is out of this world Credit: Alamy Stock Photo

Orlando is, of course, also home to Walt Disney World, where each park brings its own adventure.

At Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, its new Zootopia: Better Zoogether! 4D film inside the Tree Of Life theatre entertains, and at EPCOT, I adore the thrills of “omnicoaster” Guardians Of The Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, before sipping champers, £16, in the recreation of Paris and tucking into fish and chips, £10.75, in the park’s nod to England.

No trip would be complete without visiting Magic Kingdom, home to the Cinderella Castle, and we’re soon flying around on motorbike rollercoaster Tron Lightcycle.

The new night-time parade, Disney Starlight: Dream The Night Away, makes the already dazzling performance even more breathtaking, too (Disneyworld.co.uk).

Meanwhile, stepping into our villa at Villatel Orlando Resort brings back MTV Cribs vibes.

Located on International Drive, these sleek, modern, self-catering pads can sleep up to 26, and all have private pools – many even have cinema rooms.

There’s a large resort swimming pool, too, with water slides and a lazy river, which I sit beside, sipping frozen margaritas, £12.60, as I dive into a good book.

Stays at Villatel Orlando Resort cost from £48 per person per night (Villatel.com/villatel-orlando-resort).

That’s mall, folks!

The crib at Villatel Resort Credit: Supplied by PR
Cocktails and bites at Palm Tree Club Orlando Credit: DAVY JONES

One evening, we visit nearby entertainment complex Activate Orlando at Pointe Orlando, where teams face physical and mental challenges using interactive technology.

My favourite is one which involves dipping and dodging a network of lasers.

Hour-long sessions cost £22 per person (Playactivate.com/pointe-orlando).

It proves great fun and leaves us ravenous.

Luckily, Palm Tree Club Orlando close by offers a party atmosphere alongside delicious Lavender Hugo Spritzes, £12, rigatoni smothered in a vodka sauce, £14.80, and sides of charred broccolini, £9.60, which are a fitting reward for our energetic endeavours (@Palmtreecluborlando).

Orlando’s huge shopping malls are almost as famous as the theme parks, and as Fabulous’ Fashion Editor, it would be remiss of me not to visit one.

I pick The Mall At Millenia, home to designer boutiques and US faves Pottery Barn, Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s (Mallatmillenia.com).

Yet I still end up buying a pair of boots from H&M for £35!

The real souvenir of my trip, however, is the magic feeling this city gave me, theme parks and all.

FYI

Plan your trip at Visitorlando.com.

Universal park tickets cost from £54 per person.

Disney park tickets cost from £75 per person.

UK flights to Orlando cost from £530 return.

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I tried an eight-day tour of Portugal from Oxford-like cities to cheery liquors

WHAT do a former Tory councillor from Kent and a Wimbledon-supporting socialist have in common?

They are both sharing a beer with me on my “solos” group tour of Portugal.

The pretty city of Porto rises up above the River Douro Credit: Getty
Thirty minutes drive from the capital lies Sintra, another Unesco World Heritage Site Credit: Getty

And the three of us are talking over the day’s activities with a Trump fan from the east coast of America.

Luckily, politics is off the menu.

Very much on the menu, however, is sardines, salted cod and the country’s speciality egg yolk pastries. But more on them later.

We are part of a 26-strong group on a dash around the southwestern-most territory of Europe, which is packed with old-world charm.

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Our adventure, organised by solo tour specialist Just You, starts in Porto, where the steep hills that rise up from the River Douro are dotted higgledy-piggledy with colourful houses.

Author JK Rowling lived among the granite streets here before she was famous — and it is said the city’s gothic architecture, along with the traditional robes of its university students, inspired her world of Harry Potter.

At least one establishment, bookshop Livraria Lello, cashes in on the fact, charging entrance fees to see its elaborate interior and upstairs cafe where Rowling would drink her coffee.

Talking of elaborate, it doesn’t get much more so than the “Gold Church”, real name the Church of St Francis.

Designated a Unesco World Heritage site, its interior is dripping with carved wood covered in gold leaf, with the precious metal having been shipped over from Portugal’s former colony of Brazil.

It’s certainly dazzling, as is a trip down the Douro River to the vineyards, which supply grapes for that most Porto of products . . . port.

Can you get more Portuguese? Well, actually, my guide informs me that, historically, it was mostly grown here by the British.

The two countries have long been allies, with many Englishmen living in Portugal in the 1600s.

Back home in those days, the English liked wine but were always at war with the pesky French, meaning booze cruises across the Channel were often a no-no.

Instead, they turned to north Portugal and the Douro Valley to grow their own.

It will come as no surprise then that many of the port brands bear English names.

These include Taylor’s, Cockburn’s and Sandeman, and you can see lots of them emblazoned on the wine cellars that fill the hills of the city of Gaia, which is just across the narrow river from Porto.

The walled city of Obidos is perched on a hilltop and is completely enclosed by its fortificationsCredit: Refer to source
Aveiro is marketed as the ‘Venice of Portugal’ Credit: Getty

By the way, white port (yes, that’s a thing) is tipped to be the next big thing in the cocktail market.

After time in Porto, Gaia and the Douro Valley, day four of my eight-day trip sees the group begin to wind south to capital Lisbon, but not before stops at Aveiro, Coimbra and Obidos.

Let’s take them one by one. Aveiro is marketed as the “Venice of Portugal”. OK, it has some canals, but a trip on a large, electric gondola just doesn’t feel as romantic.

A fellow traveller did remark on its Art Deco beauty, though.

Coimbra could maybe be the Oxford of Portugal, boasting the country’s oldest university, which dates back to 1290. Bats live in its library to eat book-destroying bugs.

A guided tour of the city, which was once the capital, will take you into the grand university building, which sits among former church schools in a street that was the widest in Europe until the 1800s.

You will also likely hear the story of Don Pedro and Donna Ines. I heard it twice and am still a little hazy on the details.

Based on truth, it is Portugal’s Romeo And Juliet tale, which involves the 14th-century prince Pedro digging up the five-year-dead corpse of his mistress Ines.

He then crowned her queen and made his courtiers kiss her hand. The things we do for love.

The walled city of Obidos continues with the historic buildings. Perched on a hilltop, the medieval settlement is completely enclosed by its fortifications. And its small size makes its stunning streets very manageable to navigate.

While there, it’s worth trying its cherry liqueur, called ginjinha, which is served in chocolate cups that you can eat afterwards.

The final days of the tour were spent in Lisbon, a city built on seven hills.

Chris Michael in the Portuguese city of Coimbra Credit: Supplied
Tuck into the tasty pastry pastel de nata Credit: Getty

This may make exploring its small streets a challenge, but you can always hop on and off the quaint yellow trams.

The downtown area and main squares are flat enough and filled with impressive buildings despite the earthquake that devastated the area in 1755. A couple of miles out from the centre lies the Belem district.

Its Belem Tower is a small, picturesque fort which marks the transition from tall forts (for shooting arrows) to horizontal ones (for hosting canons).

And it does this by combining both aspects of those designs as it juts prettily into the Tagus river.

Thirty minutes drive from the capital lies Sintra, another Unesco World Heritage Site. With its microclimate making it cooler and wetter than Lisbon, it stays green all year round.

It also plays host to colourful palaces where past royalty would spend their summers hunting.

I’m sure they feasted well, too. And I didn’t do badly on that front, either.
The Portuguese say they have 365 different recipes for cod (one for each day of the year).

It is often dried and salted, which they call bacalhau. I had bacalhau covered with onions and accompanied by wafer-thin fried potatoes.

Another national delicacy is pastel de nata, an egg custard tart pastry, often dusted with cinnamon.

Grabbing one with a coffee will only set you back a couple of euros for both the treat and the drink.

It’s the sort of thing you can do to while away the hours with new-found friends from the group of initial strangers on the tour.

Which, arguably, is the key factor of the holiday’s success. Do you like your travel companions? Are you cut out for solo travel?

Cards on the table, this was my first solos tour. I met people I liked and no one I disliked. Ages ranged from 40 to 95, though 85 per cent were retired.

Lots I spoke to had been using solo tour companies for many, many years.

For some it was their first time.

If you haven’t tried it before, all I can say is: You might like it, you might love it.

But you only live once (unless you’re Donna Ines) . . . and Portugal is well worth a visit.

GO: PORTUGAL

GETTING/STAYING THERE: Just You’s eight-day Picturesque Portugal escorted tour for solo travellers includes flights from London, overseas transfers, B&B in 3* and 4* hotels with a guaranteed twin or double room of your own, four dinners and welcome and farewell drinks, accompanied by a Just You holiday director and specialist local guide.

Multiple departure dates available, with prices starting from £2,169pp.

See justyou.co.uk.

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I went on a golfing holiday in Europe to the Med’s ‘newest sporting crown jewel’

THE Cypriots have a saying: “We always survive.”

It is a mantra that echoes in my head as my golf ball makes a sickening plonk into the middle of a lake.

The City of Dreams Mediterranean resort Credit: Supplied
Simon sinks a putt on the Limassol Greens course Credit: Supplied
The resort opened to the public in 2025 Credit: Supplied

I’m hacking my way around Limassol Greens, the Mediterranean’s newest sporting crown jewel.

It only opened to the public in late 2025, but it is already making a splash (literally, in my case).

I might have lost three balls but the sun is out, the air is crisp and, true to the local spirit, I’ll survive.

The vibe is “modern luxury” from the second you pull up to the pristine clubhouse near Cyprus’s second city. We are greeted by smiley, attentive staff who make us feel more than welcome.

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My hired Callaway clubs appear brand new and the Trackman technology on the range ensures my swing is dialled in before I hit the first tee.

Once on the course, the tech stays with you. Our buggy comes equipped with a GPS screen that acts as both a sat nav directing us around the 71-par course and a digital caddie, calculating yardage to the pin.

Carved out of an old orange grove, the still course has some citrus trees around the perimeter.

This is Cyprus’s fifth course, meaning the island can truly claim to be a “golf destination” for holidaymakers.

Limassol Greens is curated by the same course designer as Aphrodite Hills, the best-known course on the island, and its mix of challenging holes coupled with forgiving fairways and fast-running greens means it may soon be challenging its more established neighbour for supremacy.

After 18 holes we retreat to clubhouse restaurant The Roost. It’s a bright sanctuary serving exactly the kind of high-protein fuel a weary golfer needs.

Another restaurant is under construction, suggesting that, like the golf course itself, Limassol Greens will only flourish with time.

I’m staying at the City Of Dreams Mediterranean resort, a five-minute transfer away.

Dominated by the lively casino at its heart, the 500-room hotel is a playground for adults and a fantastic base for playing golf.

My room was a masterclass in high-spec comfort, featuring a huge comfortable bed perfect for relaxing after hours out on the course.

The pièce de résistance? A free-standing bathtub separated from the bedroom by a glass wall.

The rooms are a masterclass in high-spec comfort Credit: Supplied
The 500-room hotel is a playground for adults and a fantastic base for playing golf Credit: Supplied

You can soak in the suds while staring at the sparkling Mediterranean Sea.

Keen to fuel up before heading out for 18 holes, the options and quality at breakfast are faultless.

The orange juice tastes as fresh as if it’s come from the groves by the golf course.

Among three premium restaurants is Prime Steakhouse, where I tackled a cut of wagyu steak imported from the US so tender it practically melted on the fork.

The next night, I swapped the steak knife for chopsticks at Amber Dragon.

The roasted duck truffle puffs — flaky, buttery and decadent — are the stars of the show.

The variation of food and inventive presentation make for a memorable evening.

The hotel provides free transfers to the popular Lady’s Mile beach during the summer months.

But I head to the spa instead. It exudes calmness with low lighting and soothing music.

I’ve booked an express treatment, with my masseuse happy to focus on my legs and shoulder, which are feeling achy after so much golf. While only 25 minutes long, I feel rejuvenated by the time I leave.

Even in January, the main city of Limassol — about 15 minutes from the hotel by taxi — feels alive. I took a breather from the greens to explore the historic centre.

While the medieval castle where Richard the Lionheart had his wedding is impressive, I was more captivated by the city’s feline residents.

Legend says St Helena imported 1,000 cats in the 4th century to hunt snakes. Today, their descendants rule the sun-drenched streets like royalty.

I finished my trip with a stroll along the marina as the sun dipped behind a forest of multi-million-pound yachts.

With a cold Keo beer in hand and the feel of a breeze blowing over the Mediterranean sea, I realised the Cypriots aren’t quite right. You don’t just survive here — you thrive.

GO: LIMASSOL

GETTING THERE: Fly to Paphos or Larnaca with easyJet from Luton, Gatwick and Bristol in May with fares from £34.99 one way.

See easyjet.com.

STAYING/GOLFING THERE: Packages at the City Of Dreams Mediterranean start from £743pp in winter and £978pp in summer, including two nights’ half-board and drinks and one round of golf at Limassol Greens.

See cityofdreamsmed.com.cy/en/experiences/ultimate-golf-experience.

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I know real reason I got 007 role but I had no idea how big it was says Gemma Arterton as she rejoins the Secret Service

SHE became the youngest ever Bond girl at 21 – and Gemma Arterton thinks one reason she landed the role as MI6 agent Strawberry Fields is because she teased 5ft 10in Daniel Craig about his height at the audition.

Now 40, the actress recalls how she had been relaxed about applying for the part in Quantum Of Solace because she did not realise quite how huge the 007 films were — and just tried out for “fun”.

Gemma Arterton says her instant chemistry with Daniel Craig helped her land the role in James Bond movie Quantum of Solace Credit: Camera Press
Gemma admits she knew little about the James Bond legacy when she turned up to audition Credit:
She is now set to star in ITV crime drama Secret Service, where she plays a senior MI6 operative Credit: ITV

Talking about Daniel, 58, who played Bond for 15 years, she says: “He’s got his sense of humour, so that was good.

“I used to poke him a bit, like, I think that’s why I got the job.

“I did a screen test with him and I came on set and said, ‘Hi’, and he said, ‘Hi’. I said, ‘You’re not as tall as I thought you would be in real life’.

“He said, ‘That’s really nice of you to say so’. I was joking with him. I didn’t think I’d get it.”

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After she landed the part, Gemma — who is 5ft 7in — says Daniel had to use height-boosting shoes for a few scenes when she was ­wearing stilettos.

Gemma, whose parents split when she was young, grew up on a Kent council estate with her mum Sally-Anne, a cleaner, and younger sister Hannah.

She said at the 2024 Marrakech International Film Festival: “I knew nothing about the Bond legacy because I grew up in an all-female household where we didn’t really watch movies.

“I literally didn’t know how big James Bond was, which sounds ridiculous because everyone else does. The ­surprise of how big it was — I couldn’t believe it.

“I auditioned for it because my agent told me to, not expecting to get it, and got it and just did it because it was fun.

“But I had an amazing time making it and it was huge. I had no idea what I was letting myself in for.

“We went on all these amazing locations. I had just left drama school, it was one of my first jobs, and it was the first time I was on a big film set.”

Now, Gemma is about to appear in another spy thriller — but this time she will take on the lead role in new ITV crime drama Secret Service, which starts tomorrow night.

She plays Kate Henderson, who balances being a suburban married mother of two teenagers with secretly being a senior MI6 operative and heading the Russian desk at the intelligence service.

It is based on the book of the same name by ITV newsreader Tom Bradby.

Gemma says: “She trains spies and finds out some very important information, which is that there is a Russian spy within the British government.

“Her mission is to find out, by hook or by crook, who that is. It’s really gripping. It’s edge-of-your-seat stuff.”

For this role, Gemma did plenty of research and, with writer Tom’s help, she even met a real-life spy to perfect the part.

She told ITV’s This Morning: “I was lucky enough to meet someone who could advise me on how they negotiate their lives and live day to day — you know, their family and their kids.

“There’s a scene where I tell my kids what I do and they don’t believe me, they laugh it off. And that came from this ­previous spy and what happened when he told his daughter and she thought, ‘You’re joking’.

“But it was invaluable to me because it’s not just the high-stakes lives they live, it’s about the attributes they have to be a spy, which are very specific — very risk averse, good at problem solving.”

Gemma has made more than 30 films, but turned her back on Hollywood in favour of independent movies Credit: Getty

Gemma has been acting since she was a teenager and was 16 when she first considered it as a career.

She says: “I come from a humble family. My father was a metal worker, my mother is a cleaner, and not involved in the arts in any way.

“I always liked performing and showing off. I didn’t know that acting was a profession really until I was about 16 and I was doing a lot of amateur dramatics as a hobby.

“There was a lady there who said, ‘You should go to college to study acting’.

“I thought, ‘OK let’s see what happens’. Then I saw Breaking Away and Dancing In The Dark and I was inspired.

“That’s when I realised I would like to give it a go.”

She first broke through with comedy film St Trinian’s in 2007, followed by Quantum Of Solace a year later.

Since then, she has made more than 30 films, including 2018’s Vita & Virginia, in which she played author Vita Sackville-West, who had a romantic ­relationship with fellow writer Virginia Woolf.

Talking about why she left Hollywood films behind to make more independent movies, Gemma says: “I think at the time it was very different in the industry to how it is now for women.

“In those films — not the Bond film. I had a really good time making that film, but the other ones — I didn’t feel very empowered.

“I didn’t feel like I had a voice and I didn’t feel comfortable. I always felt good doing independent films.

“My taste is that as well. I like independent film, it’s my passion. Usually, the stories are better and the characters are stronger and I felt like I had a voice on set.”

Films such as Byzantium, The Voices, Their Finest and The Disappearance Of Alice Creed followed, alongside performing with the Royal Shakespeare Company and starring in stage productions such as Nell Gwynn, which won her an Olivier Award in 2016.

On the Dish podcast, Gemma told how, when she starred in The Little Dog Laughed at London’s Garrick Theatre in 2010 with Tamsin Greig, Rupert Friend and Harry Lloyd, they had a novel way to try to dispel their nerves.
Laughing, she said: “We used to play this game called bum slap.

“We’d be on stage before the audience came in, obviously, and you have to run around and smack each other’s bum.

“Basically, you have to smack as many bums as you can. And it was the best warm-up ever because you were all loosey goosey.

“I think I’d rather do bum slap than any of the old acting rituals.”

Gemma loves working in Britain because she gets to perform different accents.

She said: “I do enjoy a Liverpool, that melting pot of accents that is Lancashire, Manchester and Blackburn, it’s insane.”

Gemma says she only decided she wanted a career in acting when she was 16 Credit: Getty
Gemma is married to Peaky Blinders actor Rory Keenan, and they prefer to keep a low profile Credit: Getty

Gemma herself had a Cockney accent before gaining her scholarship to the Royal Academy Of Dramatic Art, where it “softened up a bit”.
London is now her home, but her mum still lives in Gravesend — and now does watch films, thanks to her famous daughter.

Gemma says: “She’s grand, she’s living the life. She’s down in Kent where I grew up, the same home — I paid off the mortgage.

“I think she does eventually watch my shows. She takes her time and needs to watch them with the subtitles on, maybe to absorb them.

“She’s very honest. She’ll say, ‘Why did you do that? You sold out there’.”

Gemma has her own family now, too — son Theo, three, and a baby boy whose name she has not revealed — with her husband, Peaky Blinders actor Rory Keenan, who she married in 2019.

They do not live a showbiz life, but he is supportive of her work.

Gemma says: “My family life is my world now, whereas before it was work.

“It’s made me hyper-focused on what I do want to do.

“Before, it was like, ‘I will do that with that director or that actor I like’, even though it wasn’t the best thing for me.

“But now it’s made me really specific about what I want to do, because if I’m going to be away from them, which I inevitably will, it’s hard.

“But if I’m in it and enjoy the work, then it’s OK.”

Timeline of James Bond actors

Over the years there have been seven actors who have played 007.

The first ever James Bond film was in 1962, and this is who has played the lead role over the years:

  • Sean Connery – The late star was the first ever actor to play Bond, and reprised the role for seven movies.
  • George Lazenby – The star only played Bond once, but was the youngest actor to ever play the spy.
  • Roger Moore – The late movie star spent 12 years making seven films in the famous franchise.
  • Timothy Dalton – The smooth actor took over from Roger Moore and appeared in The Living Daylights and Licence to Kill.
  • Pierce Brosnan – The handsome star played Bond for four movies from 1995 to 2002.
  • Daniel Craig – The British star was the first blonde James Bond and the sixth actor to win the role in 2005.

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Meghan Trainor reveals advice Kris Jenner gave her to beat trolls after suffering cruel online abuse over weight loss

SHE rose to fame singing about her curves. But when singer Meghan Trainor lost 60lb for the sake of her health, cruel online trolls turned on her – branding her “a walking nose.”

But the All About That Bass hitmaker found support in reality show ‘momager’ Kris Jenner, who helped her navigate the horrific online abuse following her weight loss.

Meghan Trainor was left stunned when trolls turned on her after her weight loss Credit:
Meghan has revealed how Kris Jenner helped her to rediscover her confidence Credit: Splash

Meghan opened up about her recent struggles while sitting down with Biz on Sunday’s Emily following the release of her seventh studio album Toy With Me which dropped on Friday.

The American singer wrote the 14-track album while expecting her third child, daughter Mikey Moon, who was born via surrogate in January.

But while Meghan was excited to welcome her first girl, she said it had never felt tougher to be a female performer.

Meghan said: “I was getting a lot of hate online and it was all about my appearance and my looks and I was like: ‘Man, being a woman in this industry, it’ll never end.’”

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Of seeking advice, Meghan said: “Kris Jenner helped me with the hate online. I went to her and I was like: ‘Everyone’s mad at me.’

“Kris was like: ‘Of course, because you’re successful. You’re on the internet and it’s a terrible place but it can also be a great place.

“She said: ‘Are you happy? Are you thriving in your life?’

“I was like, ‘Yeah, I’m doing pretty well, that’s why I’m confused.’

“She said: ‘That’s all that matters. You’re doing great.’”

Meghan added: “Kris was really nice about it and I was like: ‘I can’t imagine what you guys [the Kardashians] are going through.’

“She was like, ‘You don’t want to know, it’s a lot.’

“Kris sends me the biggest flowers. It’s like a competition between her and her daughter Khloe Kardashian, who can send me the biggest.”

Meghan rose to fame with her 2014 hit All About That Bass in which she sang: “Yeah, it’s pretty clear, I ain’t no size two.”

But after she was diagnosed with gestational diabetes while pregnant with her eldest son Riley in 2020, Meghan overhauled her lifestyle — with the help of weight-loss medication Mounjaro.

She said: “I’m finally taking care of myself, I’m finally listening to my body first instead of career first and destroying my health.”

But with her slimmer frame came a huge wave of online hate.

Of the comments, Meghan said: “They were like, ‘She’s just a walking nose.’

“‘She’s just so unlikeable now’. ‘I miss the old Meghan’, or ‘Hey, ‘zempy queen’ suggesting she had used Ozempic to lose the pounds.

“It made me just crumble and feel like I never wanted to go outside again.”

Meghan, who also has another son, Barry, with actor hubby Daryl Sabara, said she consulted her doctor following exhaustion from social media.

Meghan pictured before her weight loss in 2014 – when she released hit single All About That Bass Credit: Supplied

And earlier this week, Meghan said she needed to put her family first and cancelled her 33-date Get In Girl tour across North America.

She said: “We tested my blood and everything and they were like: ‘You’re on track to get an autoimmune disease.

“It was all the noise from social media destroying me and getting to me mentally.”

She added: “This all happened while having a daughter and I was like: ‘I’m so worried when she gets here.’

Of the album, Meghan said: “I wanted to make a lot of self-love anthems as I know she [Mikey] will need them growing up in this world too.”

Quickfire questions with Meghan

FIRST CONCERT? NSYNC.

WORST HABIT? I peel my skin off until it bleeds.

COMFORT TV SERIES? A weird one but the medical drama series ER.

DRINK ORDER? Shirley Temple.

COMMON MISCONCEPTION? That I don’t put out music any more but I am still out here grinding.

ULTIMATE TREAT? A gluten-free brownie from Gwyneth Paltrow’s brand Goop.

SNOG? Disney+ thriller series Paradise, starring Sterling K. Brown has me totally hooked.

MARRY? Sarah Pidgeon and Paul Anthony Kelly in the brilliant Disney+ series Love Story.

AVOID? After my recent negative experiences I will be keeping well clear of media trolls.

Liam’s ex ready to love again

Liam Payne’s girlfriend Kate Cassidy is ready to start dating 18 months after the singer’s death Credit: Dan Charity

LIAM PAYNE’s girlfriend Kate Cassidy has revealed she feels ready to meet someone again, 18 months after the singer’s passing.

The American influencer, who dated the One Direction star for two years, until he died aged 31, opened up on social media.

She said: “I am ready to start dating again. It has been a year and a half since Liam passed away.

“I think that love after loss is a big chapter within your grief journey and I don’t know how that is going to feel.

“But I do know that I loved being in love. I want to have kids one day, I want to have a family and I know Liam would want that for me and if the roles were reversed I would want him to be happy and fall in love again.”

She continued: “I will always love Liam and that will never change no matter who I meet and who comes into my life.

“I am going to think about Liam on my wedding day, I am going to think about him every day for the rest of my life and that goes without saying.”

It’s in the Stars, Maura

Maura Higgins was snapped in New York in a stylish white dress with a long train Credit: Getty

EXCITING news for Maura Higgins as she has been confirmed for Dancing With The Stars.

I can reveal the reality star – who was snapped in New York in a stylish white dress with a long train – turned down Strictly in favour of the US show as she hopes to avoid further scandal.

Strictly is already linked to her exes Pete Wicks and pro dancer Giovanni Pernice, and last year she kissed married McFly star Danny Jones at a Brit Awards party.

A pal said: “She’s heading towards big things in LA, and Strictly is full of drama, she wants to keep her nose clean.”

It’s three love for celebs

Anna Williamson says Celebs Go Dating will move with the times and welcome throuples Credit: Rachel Joseph / Channel 4

CELEBS Go Dating’s relationship expert Anna Williamson has welcomed throuples on the Channel 4 dating show.

It comes after a married couple attended one of the reality show’s mixer events to see if any celebrities wanted to try a non-monogamous relationship.

Anna said: “It’s 2026, we’re moving with the times. Polyamory is something that is very much emerging from the shadows as a relationship construct.

“It’s not for everybody and I don’t believe it’s for the faint-hearted at all.”

Boxer David Haye and his long-term girlfriend Sian Osborne enjoy a rumoured open relationship.

They were most famously in a “throuple” with The Saturdays singer Una Healy, who denied she had a romantic relationship with Sian.

Anna said: “There is no right or wrong way to date.

“So we thought: ‘Well why not?’ It was lovely to throw that different relationship dynamic into the mix.”

Mick gets tongues wagging

THE ROLLING STONES rolled out posters across the UK yesterday promoting their upcoming album Foreign Tongues.

The billboard shows the title of the record –out July 10 in Danish.

Earlier this month I revealed that Paul McCartney will also feature on a track after a cameo on the Stones’ 2023 album Hackney Diamonds.

An insider said: “Details of the Stones’ new album have been kept secret but it’s true that Paul features on a new track on the upcoming album. It’s going to be a real treat for fans.”

Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and Ronnie Wood also dropped a single called Rough & Twisted under the pseudonym The Cockroaches earlier this month.

Millie’s Liv-ing it up

Millie Mackintosh told Olivia Attwood all about her high-profile split from Hugo Taylor Credit: Getty

MILLIE MACKINTOSH has sat down with Olivia Attwood for an intimate chat following her high-profile split from Hugo Taylor.

The former Made In Chelsea star – who wore this revealing black gown to The Devil Wears Prada 2 premiere in London this week – will appear on an upcoming episode of Olivia’s House podcast.

The pair will have had a lot to discuss as the Love Islander ended her ten-year relationship with footballer Bradley Dack in January.

A source said: “It wasn’t a tell-all chat, that’s not Millie’s style, but she does touch on what she’s been going through.

“The women clearly bonded over a shared experience in the public eye.

“Olivia is bagging great guests for her podcast.”
I’m sure they had plenty to discuss off camera too . . . 


HELENA BONHAM CARTER has left season four of HBO hit The White Lotus.

The Crown actress was set to appear in the next installment of the drama, which has begun filming on the French Riviera.

But an HBO spokesman said the character, created by filmmaker Mike White for Helena did not work on set.

In a statement to Deadline, they said: “With filming just under way it had become apparent that the character which Mike White created for Helena Bonham Carter did not align once on set.

“The role is being rewritten and will be recast. HBO and Mike are saddened that they won’t get to work with her, but remain ardent fans.”

Sounds like this is an even bigger plot twist than writers had anticipated.


Meryl: Anne’s saintly

MOVIE sequel The Devil Wears Prada 2 plugs weight-loss drug Ozempic.

The film, starring Anne Hathaway and Meryl Streep, hits cinemas this Friday, and a source said: “There are many big brands in the film and it seems the makers of Ozempic will be pleased.”

It comes after Anne, who plays the film’s Andy Sachs, spoke to producers about casting models for the film.

After noticing models at last year’s Milan Fashion Week, were “alarmingly thin”, her co-star Meryl, told Harper’s Bazaar: “Anne made a beeline for producers about it, securing promises the models for our film wouldn’t be so skeletal.

“She’s a stand-up girl.”

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Kylie Jenner, 28, looks sensational as she poses topless in a double belted mini skirt from her fashion brand

REALITY TV star Kylie Jenner buckles up – in a double belted mini skirt from her KHY fashion brand.

The 28-year-old posed in a stone coloured denim number from her Born in LA range.

Kylie Jenner showed off her curves in a double belted mini skirt from her KHY fashion brand Credit: instagram/kyliejenner
Kylie also stunned as she posed in a double denim look Credit: instagram/kyliejenner

She said: “It’s inspired, designed, and almost all made here in Los Angeles

“From LA to wherever you are.”

We revealed yesterday how the socialite has become a cat mum since her beloved 11-year-old Italian Greyhound, Norman, passed away last year.

And is seems that the stunning beauty mogul is enjoying the company of her new four-legged friend.

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Taking to Instagram, Kylie posed up a storm in a seriously skimpy outfit, writing a caption which read: “me + my lip liner + and my kitty.”

She shared four photos to the platform, with each of the snaps being selfies of the star as she rocked a gray bathing suit.

The swimsuit was strapless and had cutout details, displaying her toned physique.

The first image saw Kylie pulling her cut-out bikini down a little while applying lip gloss in a huge mirror.

Her cleavage was on full display as she pouted up a storm and applied the lip product with her long raven locks framing her face.

The second snap saw her standing up straight while holding her adorable fluffy friend.

Kylie Jenner has flaunted her curves in a sultry swimsuit as she cuddles her cat Credit: Instagram

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Rihanna, 38, is all smiles as she steps out in mustard look in India to promote new beauty range

SUPERSTAR Rihanna looks as keen as mustard to promote her beauty brand.

The Barbadian singer, 38, wore a flowing yellow top and ankle-length leather skirt.

Rihanna wore a flowing yellow top and ankle-length leather skirt on an overseas trip to India Credit: Getty
Rihanna was in Mumbai to promote her brand Fenty Beauty, wearing jewellery from a local designer Credit: AFP

She also wore gems from local designer Manish Malhotra, at the Indian launch in Mumbai of Fenty Beauty

The mum of three’s earnings from her Fenty cosmetics and fashion lines have given her a net worth of £1 billion.

Fenty Beauty is a makeup brand that in late 2020 branched out into skincare, and Savage X Fenty is a luxury underwear brand for women and men.

She recently posed for revealing photographs in red satin lingerie, sprawled sexily across a sofa.

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Rihanna has also revealed that she is actively working on brand new music for the first time in years.

She has largely stayed out of the music industry since her acclaimed 2016 release Anti and has focused on business endeavours instead.

Her only solo lead song since 2016 was in 2022 with the track, Lift Me Up, to accompany the film, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

Last year she gave birth to her third child with partner A$AP Rocky.

Rihanna is also set to make a sensational return to music, working on new tracks Credit: Getty

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Huge TOWIE star is ‘ready to be pushed to her limit’ as she signs up to next series of Celeb SAS: Who Dares Wins

AMY Childs has signed up for the next series of Celeb SAS: Who Dares Wins.

The former TOWIE star, 35, will appear on the next series of the gruelling Channel 4 show which is expected to air next year.

Amy Childs attends the ITV2 Reality Showcase at White City Place.
Amy Childs has signed up for the new series of Channel 4 show Celeb SAS: Who Dares Wins Credit: Getty

A source said: “Amy is ready to be pushed to her limit on the show.

“She wants to prove to herself and her children that she has what it takes.

“Amy has also been working hard with her personal trainer to be physically ready to take on the challenge.”

Earlier this month Amy tied the knot with her long-term boyfriend Billy Delbosq at Marylebone Town Hall in London.

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Meanwhile Amy has also faced cruel backlash from trolls online over her drastic weight loss.

She also faced further turmoil last year when her mum Julie was rushed to hospital following a heart attack last year.

Speaking to OK! Magazine, she said: “People don’t know what is going on behind closed doors.

“I’m going through so much at the minute that the weight has fallen off me. I worry about my mum constantly.

“She’s very emotional – she thinks she’s going to have another heart attack.”

The Sun has also revealed that Married At First Sight star Ella Morgan will compete on the military challenge show.

It will be the first time that a famous trans person has competed on Channel 4’s military challenge show, which films its ninth series this summer.

Meanwhile Freddy Brazier is also in talks to compete on the show – following in the footsteps of his dad Jeff Brazier, who starred on the show in 2019.

Former Special Forces big dogs Billy Billingham, Jason Fox, Rudy Reyes, and Chris Oliver will all be on hand to push the stars to their limit.

Series eight, which went out in January, was given a Team UK v Team Australia theme and produced in conjunction with Aussie broadcaster Channel 7.

Seven stars from each country were pitted against each other to find out which of them were capable of completing the course.

Former Love Islanders Dani Dyer and Gabby Allen as well as retired Australian swimmer Emily Seebohm were crowned the winners.

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