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.
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Somerset’s ancient and majestic Cheddar GorgeCredit: SuppliedWallace and Gromit art in the gorgeCredit: 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.
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.
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 flavourCredit: SuppliedTuck into a hearty ploughman’s platter, with big hunks of white bread accompanied by dollops of piccalilli and generous wedges of Cheddar at Cafe GorgeCredit: 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!
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.
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Boats moored in Kotor harbourCredit: GettyThe pool at the Hyatt Regency Kotor BayCredit: 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.
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”.
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 KotorCredit: GettyThe scenic Lake Skadar National ParkCredit: 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 FortressCredit: GettyThe Church of Our Lady of Remedy, perched on the slope of St. John MountainCredit: 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.
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.
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The Royal Yacht Britannia, docked in Edinburgh’s Port of Leith for the past 28 yearsCredit: Marc Millar/Royal Yacht BrittaniaThe royal ship attracts lots of visitorsCredit: Marc Millar/Royal Yacht Brittania
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 cabinCredit: SuppliedThe regal state dining roomCredit: 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 viewCredit: SuppliedThe Royal Yacht Britannia has been named the World’s Best Attraction at TripAdvisor’s The Travellers’ Choice Awards 2026Credit: 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.
Maura Higgins has asked a former Strictly Come Dancing pro for help trainingCredit: GettyShe asked former Strictly pro Karen Hauer to help her train for the US version of the showCredit: BBC
Maura is walking away from Love Island USACredit: GettyKaren was axed from Strictly this yearCredit: 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 IslandUSA.
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.”
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.
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Whitney Adebayo and Yamen Sanders have split after five monthsCredit: InstagramThe pair found love in the ITV All Stars villa in South AfricaCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
However, rumours have swirled of their break-up after the couple were navigating a long-distance relationship.
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 weddingCredit: SplashBambi was one of Venezuela’s bridesmaids for the big dayCredit: 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 ManCredit: PP.Molly-Mae’s fiancé, Tommy Fury wasn’t able to join the wedding celebrationsCredit: 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 gownCredit: PP.Molly-Mae and Tommy are expecting their second babyCredit: 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.”
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.
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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.
We really rate the no-fly MSC voyages on super-modern VirtuosaCredit: 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 PaphosCredit: 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 RomeCredit: 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 MenorcaCredit: 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 kayakingCredit: 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 LandalCredit: 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 familyCredit: 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’sCredit: 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 ZooCredit: 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.
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.
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Taylor Swift and fiancé Travis Kelce were snapped on a whirlwind trip to London last weekCredit: GettyThe celebrity couple are planning a wedding party at celeb haunt The Chiltern Firehouse in AugustCredit: 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.
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.
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 CityCredit: GettyZara was worried because she said her voice was ‘literally gone’ the morning of the performanceCredit: 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 WinsCredit: GettyApprentice star Thomas Skinner will also be attempting the toughest show on TVCredit: Splash
IT is known as the toughest show on TV – but ahead of the new series of CelebritySAS: 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.”
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 SpainCredit: GettyThe Drop Dead singer wore a pink mini dress and black leather bootsCredit: Getty
OLIVIA RODRIGO looks super cute in dainty florals during a performance in Spain.
The Drop Dead singer wore a pinkmini 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 TonguesCredit: GettyThe legendary group will pay tribute to Amy’s 2007 track You Know I’m No GoodCredit: Getty
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 MescalCredit: GettyGladiator II star Paul bumped into Tom at a hurling event in Dublin last yearCredit: Getty
The Little Bit Of Love hitmaker bumped into the Normal People star at the All-Ireland Senior HurlingChampionship 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 BlumenthalCredit: AlamyMarco Pierre White is set to feature along with Gordon himselfCredit: 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 AwardsCredit: GettyStacey was criticised for her emotional reaction to losing at last year’s ceremonyCredit: Instagram
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.
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.
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Candice Swanepoel perched on a seaside boulder to show off a bikini from her new lineCredit: Candice’s swimwear is from her Tropic of C label’s collaboration with Victoria’s SecretCredit:
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.”
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.
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.
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The Magnolia Hotel is a white villa designed like a ’50s motelCredit: SuppliedQuinto do Lago Lake sits nearbyCredit: 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.
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 CampusCredit: SinenkiyGorge on zesty prawn tacos washed down with frozen margaritasCredit: 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 sessionCredit: Andre Pires SantosHire mountain bikes from The Bike ShedCredit: 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.
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.
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On target Piper tried archeryCredit: SuppliedCorben had a ball and joined the Wolves academyCredit: 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.
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 poolsCredit: Club MedPiper loved horse ridingCredit: 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 funCredit: SuppliedZen out at the hotel spaCredit: 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 MedCredit: Club MedTake in a round at Golf de PalmyreCredit: 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.
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.
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 sculptureCredit: SuppliedThe town has a rich maritime historyCredit: 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 beachCredit: SuppliedThe overhauled East Point Pavilion, an ornate glass Victorian-inspired venue that overlooks the sea and hosts concerts and makers’ marketsCredit: 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.
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.
Jason Statham and his model partner Rosie Huntington-Whiteley have bought a £20million beachfront ‘forever home’Credit: GettyThe 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.
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.”
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 CornwallCredit: AlamyRosie has a £30million fortune via fashion collaborations with M&S and Burberry, and acting rolesCredit: 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.
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.
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Former Bros singer Matt Goss has revealed how he fought off muggers trying to steal his rolexCredit: Paul HarriesMatt told Biz On Sunday’s Emily Webber that he would love to reunite on stage with his brother Luke againCredit: 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’.
“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 TaylorCredit: Getty
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 EurosummerCredit: InstagramShakira reached out to congratulate pal Zara on the track’s releaseCredit: 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 TonguesCredit: InstagramThe Rolling Stones’ album will be released in July and a clock is ticking downCredit: 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.
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.
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Epic Universe’s Helios Grand Hotel at Universal Studios Orlando ResortCredit: Supplied by Universal Destinations & Experiences PRSuper Nintendo WorldCredit: 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 KingdomCredit: Matt Stroshane, PhotographerThe Dragon Racer’s Rally ride is epic!Credit: KILBY PHOTO
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.
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).
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.
The crib at Villatel ResortCredit: Supplied by PRCocktails and bites at Palm Tree Club OrlandoCredit: 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.
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.
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.
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The pretty city of Porto rises up above the River DouroCredit: GettyThirty minutes drive from the capital lies Sintra, another Unesco World Heritage SiteCredit: 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.
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 sourceAveiro 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 CoimbraCredit: SuppliedTuck into the tasty pastry pastel de nataCredit: 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.
It is a mantra that echoes in my head as my golf ball makes a sickening plonk into the middle of a lake.
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The City of Dreams Mediterranean resortCredit: SuppliedSimon sinks a putt on the Limassol Greens courseCredit: SuppliedThe resort opened to the public in 2025Credit: 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.
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 comfortCredit: SuppliedThe 500-room hotel is a playground for adults and a fantastic base for playing golfCredit: 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.
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.
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”.
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Gemma Arterton says her instant chemistry with Daniel Craig helped her land the role in James Bond movie Quantum of SolaceCredit: Camera PressGemma admits she knew little about the James Bond legacy when she turned up to auditionCredit: She is now set to star in ITV crime drama Secret Service, where she plays a senior MI6 operativeCredit: 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.”
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 ITVcrime 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 moviesCredit: 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 16Credit: GettyGemma is married to Peaky Blinders actor Rory Keenan, and they prefer to keep a low profileCredit: 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.
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.
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Meghan Trainor was left stunned when trolls turned on her after her weight lossCredit: Meghan has revealed how Kris Jenner helped her to rediscover her confidenceCredit: 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.’”
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 trainCredit: Getty
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.
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 TaylorCredit: Getty
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 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.
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.
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Kylie Jenner showed off her curves in a double belted mini skirt from her KHY fashion brandCredit: instagram/kyliejennerKylie also stunned as she posed in a double denim lookCredit: instagram/kyliejenner
She said: “It’s inspired, designed, and almost all made here in Los Angeles
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.
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Rihanna wore a flowing yellow top and ankle-length leather skirt on an overseas trip to IndiaCredit: GettyRihanna was in Mumbai to promote her brand Fenty Beauty, wearing jewellery from a local designerCredit: 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.
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 dogsBilly 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.