welcoming

Vick Hope looks incredible as she returns to work after welcoming first child with Calvin Harris

VICK Hope looked incredible as she made a return to work after giving birth to her first child with Calvin Harris.

The TV and radio host, 36, welcomed son Micah with the Scottish DJ in an Ibiza home birth back in July, and returned to the spotlight at the Glamour Women Of The Year Awards last night.

Vick Hope returned to the red carpet after giving birth to son Micah at her and Calvin Harris’s stunning Ibiza farm residenceCredit: Splash
She looked stunning in a pink satin floor-length gown as she stepped out for the first time since motherhoodCredit: Getty
The TV and radio host shared sweet unseen snaps of her and hubby Calvin with their little one last weekCredit: vickhope/Instagram

The mum-of-one, who looked radiant in a strapless pink satin gown, admitted she was “bricking it” as she stepped out on the red carpet for the first time since giving birth.

She pleaded that the crowd “be gentle” with her as she took to the stage to cheers following her return from maternity leave.

The star said she hadn’t slept for 13 weeks, and admitted that she’d been covered in “bright yellow s**t” since giving birth.

And addressing a graphic snap of her placenta, posted by hubby Calvin, she joked: “‘It was posted by my husband but placentas are amazing. I am keen to celebrate motherhood after what my vagina has done – it’s f***ing majestic. 

happy family

Vick Hope shares rare look at Calvin Harris’s Ibiza home and son Micah


ZEN PAD

Calvin Harris & Vick Hope turn Cotswolds estate into health haven with yoga studio

“And now you’ve all seen my placenta too!”

The placenta pic was included in a series of snaps he posted, as he announced the birth of his son on Instagram back in August.

The post, which included images of Vick in a birthing pool, had snaps of her placenta with capsules, suggesting they had it encapsulated, which is an increasingly popular trend.

He wrote in the caption: ““20th of July our boy arrived. Micah is here! My wife is a superhero and I am in complete awe of her primal wisdom! Just so grateful. We love you so much Micah.”

Last week, Vick posted a series of summer highlights on Instagram, and looked radiant as she cradled the couple’s three-month-old son Micah at the couple’s sprawling Spanish residence.

Calvin, 41, bought the stunning 138-acre farm, known as Terra Masia, back in 2022, and the couple have spent much of the summer there, with Vick giving birth in the Ibiza property back in July.

Vick shared a series of snaps with hubby Calvin, along with close family and friends, as she marked the end of summer.

The Radio 1 host was still pregnant in a large chunk of the pics, before sharing adorable snaps with Micah post-birth.

In the caption, she wrote: “A womb with a view, a summer of love and another trip around the sun [sunshine emoji]”.

In one of the pics, Vick is seen cradling her huge baby bump in the Spanish sunshine, with a number of the snaps showcasing her and Calvin’s life as new parents.

The pair are seen pushing young Micah in a pram on the farm residence, along with Calvin holding their son during a seaside walk.

Vick is then seen beaming as she holds their three-month old, wearing a green and yellow halterneck one-piece bikini.

Calvin Harris shared a sweet image holding son Micah in the birthing pool at the couple’s stunning Ibiza residence, after announcing the birth of their first childCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk

The post received over 40,000 likes as celeb pals and fans showered the new mum-of-one with love in the comments section.

The snaps also reveal a deeper look into Calvin’s huge rural Ibiza property, which he bought after selling his two multi-million pound mansions in Los Angeles.

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The chart-topping DJ and producer’s swanky pad is the largest organic farm in the White Isle.

It can produce veg, eggs, wine and farm-to-table meals, and also hosts special events such as weddings.

The couple, who are now new parents, started dating in 2022 before tying the knot in September 2023Credit: Getty

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Downton Abbey couple reveal they’re secretly married – four years after welcoming first baby together

A REAL-LIFE Downton Abbey couple have revealed they’re secretly married – four years after welcoming their first baby.

Laura Carmichael and Michael C. Fox went public in 2016, but began dating two years earlier.

Michael Fox and Laura Carmichael at the Downton Abbey premiere.

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Michael C. Fox and Laura Carmichael have been together since 2014Credit: Splash
Michelle Dockery and Laura Carmichael in a scene from *Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale*.

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Laura portrays Lady Edith Crawley (right)Credit: AP
Downton Abbey cast at a horse race.

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A third feature film is wrapping up Downton’s storyCredit: Alamy

They play Lady Edith Crawley and Andrew Parker respectively in the smash-hit period drama.

In 2021, the co-star couple welcomed their first child, son Luca, into the world.

Michael, 36, has now seemingly confirmed that he and Laura have tied the knot.

Speaking at NBC‘s Downton Abbey Celebrates The Grand Finale, he said: “I owe a lot to this show.

Read more on Downton Abbey

“I think so much of my life has been shaped around this show.”

Co-star Lesley Nicol – who plays Mrs Patmore – then asked: “What if someone said you’re actually going to find your wife and have a child? Life-changing stuff.”

To which Michael replied: “I know. It’s incredible.”

The Sun has contacted Michael’s representatives for comment.

Meanwhile, the event marked Downton Abbey‘s conclusion – spanning 15 years worth of a TV series and now three feature films.

In April 2022, The Sun revealed how the couple had welcomed Luca over a year earlier.

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale

A source told the Sun on Sunday: at the time: “Laura and Michael absolutely love being parents and were grateful to have some time away from the limelight to enjoy the moment.

“Laura’s taken motherhood in her stride and it’s added another string to her bow.”

Meanwhile, Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale features Hugh Bonneville and Elizabeth McGovern as the Earl and Countess of Grantham, as well as Michelle Dockery as Lady Mary Crawley and Jim Carter as Mr Carson.

The beloved original series ran from 2010 to 2015 on ITV and PBS in the US.

Ahead of the third film‘s release, Hugh told how it will pay tribute to the late Dame Maggie Smith.

The screen legend played Violet Crawley, the Dowager Countess of Grantham.

Hugh told The Chris Evans Breakfast Show with The National Lottery on Virgin Radio UK: “It’s very much set in the house and saying goodbye to all these characters and we obviously say goodbye to Dame Maggie, which was very poignant on screen and now in real life.”

“She’ll be sorely missed. But the final film will obviously be a great lasting tribute to her.”

Still image from Downton Abbey: A New Era showing Laura Haddock and Michael Fox in period costume.

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Michael plays Andy Parker across the Downton franchise (pictured alongside Laura Haddock)Credit: Alamy

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Gogglebox’s Georgia Bell issues sad family announcement nine months after welcoming baby

Gogglebox fan favourite Georgia Bell has had fans sending their support after she shared an emotional announcement online

Gogglebox
Gogglebox’s Georgia Bell issues sad family announcement nine months after welcoming baby(Image: Channel 4)

A cherished Gogglebox favourite has received overwhelming support from devoted viewers following her heartfelt family revelation.

Georgia Bell initially appeared on the Channel 4 programme in 2018 alongside best mate Abbie Lynn. It’s safe to say the pair quickly won over audiences with their infectious charm.

Throughout the years, Georgia and Abbie – who reside in Durham – have left viewers in hysterics with their brilliant quips and amusing commentary on television’s finest moments.

Beyond the programme, hairdresser Georgia is a devoted mother to two boys, Hugh – who arrived in July 2022 – and Ralphie – who was born in November 2024 – with partner Josh Newby, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Georgia and Abbie Lynn
Georgia and Abbie have been keep audiences in stitches for years with their hilarious quips

Recently, Georgia expressed her melancholy in a touching family revelation. Posting to her Instagram account, the Channel 4 personality shared multiple photographs of baby Ralphie.

In her message, she disclosed to followers: “Maternity leave comes to an end tomorrow. An absolute rollercoaster it’s been, transitioning to a family of 5 welcoming our little Ralphie into the world.

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“I feel like l’ve learnt so much more to motherhood this time round and I couldn’t feel any luckier to have our perfect little family.

“There’s been so many highs, absolute chaos, laughs, tears, tantrums and most importantly unconditional love.”

Delivering a relationship update, Georgia continued: “Even having more time with Hugh has been so special we have two happy and healthy boys and that’s all I could ever wish for. Onto the next chapter.”

Georgia Bell, who stars on Channel 4 Gogglebox with pal Abbie, has announced she is stepping away from hairdressing.
Georgia Bell, who stars on Channel 4 Gogglebox with pal Abbie, has announced she is stepping away from hairdressing.

Supporters quickly filled the comments section with messages of encouragement for Georgia. One fan penned: “It will be difficult you got this you have a beautiful family love watching your stories.xx.”

Another chimed in: “All the best in your new chapter, it will be worth it as you have an evening of family time together, with new conversations and new routines. You will be fine.”

Her Gogglebox colleague Abbie also expressed her admiration, stating: “Extremely proud of you Ge! You are the bestest mama to the most beautiful boys!”.

Gogglebox series 26 is scheduled to begin on Friday, September 5th, 2025, on Channel 4.

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Mallorca’s six new rules for tourists as island ‘not welcoming holidaymakers’

Travel experts have explained what you now need to do after recent mass protests and ‘fake signs’

Demonstrators hold signs reading 'We work but we can't afford a home' during a protest against mass tourism in Mallorca
Demonstrators hold signs reading ‘We work but we can’t afford a home’ during a protest against mass tourism in Mallorca

British tourists are being warned they might not receive the warm welcome they’re expecting this summer, especially in Mallorca, where tensions between locals and visitors are boiling over. With fake ‘beach closed’ signs, mass protests, and growing calls to curb tourism, experts say the island’s relationship with holidaymakers is under serious strain.

Palma Airport saw 1.1 million international arrivals in April alone, a 12.9% rise year-on-year, with the Balearics recording the fastest growth across Spain. In June, thousands of locals marched through the streets demanding tighter controls. Protestors from Menys Turisme, Més Vida held signs reading: “We want our island back”.

Yasim Pekel, a travel expert at Blue Cruise, said: “Tensions like this are becoming more common in overcrowded hotspots, and Mallorca is just the latest example. It’s not about hating visitors, it’s about protecting their space and way of life. Tourists can still have an amazing trip, but it helps to be a little more aware, a little less loud, and a lot more respectful.”

Demonstrators hold signs during a protest against mass tourism and housing prices in Palma de Mallorca
Demonstrators hold signs during a protest against mass tourism and housing prices in Palma de Mallorca

Yassim’s tips for navigating ‘less-than-welcoming’ destinations:

  • Avoid peak times at beaches and attractions – go early or explore lesser-known spots.
  • Support local businesses , not just tourist traps – eat, shop, and book with residents where possible.
  • Take your rubbish with you – even in remote spots. Leave nothing behind.
  • Keep the noise down – especially in residential areas or during siesta hours.
  • Respect local signage , even if it seems fake – never remove or challenge it.
  • Be curious, not careless – learn a few phrases, read up on local customs, and show interest beyond the ‘Insta spots’.

Similar tensions are growing in Venice, Barcelona, Dubrovnik, Lisbon, and the Canary Islands. Amsterdam has even launched a campaign asking British tourists not to visit for stag and hen parties or drug tourism. Meanwhile, France, Greece, and Portugal are introducing stricter regulations, including noise restrictions, cruise ship bans, and rental caps, as residents push back against tourism’s impact.

A woman holds a sign reading "Tourists go home" during a demonstration in Mallorca
A woman holds a sign reading “Tourists go home” during a demonstration in Mallorca

How to be part of the solution

  • Slow travel is on the rise; staying longer in fewer places reduces pressure on communities.
  • Book local guides, stay in family-run hotels, and engage with cultural events; these help shift tourism from extractive to meaningful.
  • Ultimately, respect goes further than saying “hola”, and it might just help keep your favourite destinations open to visitors.

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Underrated EU island welcoming Brits where tourism backlash doesn’t exist

Deterred by escalating anti-tourist sentiment in Spain? Don’t worry, this beautiful EU island offers equally stunning beaches, history and architecture – all without the threat of angry protestors

Malta
This tiny but magical EU island hasn’t been experiencing anti-tourist demonstrations(Image: Getty Images)

Avoid the angry protestors on this stunning European island just over three hours from the UK.

For decades, sun-worshipping Brits have been flocking to sunny Spain – partying in the hectic regions of Magaluf and Benidorm, or chilling out in the more laid-back coastal gems stretching across the Costa del Sol. Lured in by golden sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, cheap booze and stunning history, the country has watched its tourism rapidly boom.

Last year, Spain and its slew of insatiably popular islands, witnessed a record-breaking 94 million international visitors – a 10 per cent spike from the year before. However, the influx sparked backlash amongst locals, who argue the skyrocketing demand for short-term holiday lets has priced them out of the property market. 2024 witnessed a string of protests erupt across the country, with banner-holding residents demanding Brits ‘go home’ and never return. This anti-tourist rhetoric has spiralled in recent years, with fresh vows of demonstrations to take place during the insufferably busy summer.

BARCELONA, CATALONIA, SPAIN - 2024/06/09: The political slogan It's tourist hunting season is seen painted on the wall of a building on Las Ramblas in Barcelona. Anti-tourist graffiti has appeared in central Barcelona as part of a protest movement reflecting the frustrations of locals who believe there are too many tourists visiting the city. One of Europe's most popular tourist destinations, Barcelona is struggling to find a balance between the economic benefits of mass tourism and its impact on local communities. (Photo by Paco Freire/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
Brits have been warned of a ‘bleak’ summer in Spain this year(Image: SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

If you’ve been put off by the clashing protests, Joanne Lynn, a European travel expert over at Riviera Travel, recommends visiting Malta instead. Situated in the central Mediterranean between Sicily and the North African coast – Malta may only span some 122 square miles, but it certainly packs a powerful punch.

Here, you’ll find a UNESCO city dripping in history, ancient ruins, stunning architecture and pristine beaches. Highlights include the ‘Blue Grotto’ – a network of six sea caves that has been branded the perfect dupe of Italy’s Amalfi Coast – and the Saluting Battery ceremony in the capital, where a restored canon is fired Monday through Sunday twice a day.

Small boats with passengers and natural rock formations of Blue Grotto, on southeast coast of Malta.  Every day from sunrise until about 1 pm a unique sight can be observed here: location of cave combined with sunlight lead to water mirroring showing numerous shades of blue. Several caverns mirror brilliant phosphorescent colours of underwater flora; other caverns show a deep dark shade of blue.  Popular destination for tourists with boat trips to visit caves, scuba diving snorkeling and rock climbing being most popular activities here.
Malta’s Blue Grotto is a must-visit attraction(Image: Getty Images)

Speaking exclusively with the Mirror, Joanne explained how the country has ‘largely avoided’ this kind of tension thanks to the island’s more ‘measured approach to tourism and strong emphasis on maintaining local culture’. “While the island can certainly get busy, particularly around popular beach areas during peak season, it has not experienced the same degree of backlash or protest seen in places like Barcelona,” she said. “Crucially, Malta hasn’t faced the same pressures on housing markets or local infrastructure, which has helped preserve a generally positive relationship between residents and visitors.”

Last year, Malta welcomed 3.6 million tourists – almost 20 per cent more compared to 2023. But despite its growing popularity, Joanne says travellers can still enjoy a ‘fulfilling experience without the added concern of tourism-related unrest’. “Overall, Malta’s combination of high-quality restaurants, museums, historical tourist attractions and quiet towns makes it a great choice for anyone looking to avoid demonstrations across Europe, while still being able to experience a wonderful summer trip abroad,” she added.

Of course, this is not to say that everyone on the islands loves the sudden influx of Brits. Certain areas, such as Comino – a small island of the Maltese archipelago, have become super crowded in the busy summer months. Back in 2022, a local group named Movimenti Graffiti stripped the area of its deckchairs and sun beds to make it clear that Comino should be protected ‘not plundered’.

COMINO, MALTA - JULY 11: People swim at Blue Lagoon on July 11, 2021 in Comino, Malta. Malta, Europe's smallest nation, is now on The Uk's green list for travel. (Photo by Joanna Demarco/Getty Images)
Comino has seen some pushback to over-tourism – but not to the extent of Spain(Image: Getty Images)

You can fly directly to Malta from most major UK airports, including Glasgow, Belfast, Liverpool, and London Stansted, with flights taking an average of three hours and 15 minutes. If you’re flexible with dates, you can grab return fares for as little as £50 in June.

Accommodation on the island is equally affordable, with a slew of no-thrill hotels, hostels, and apartments available. For example, a week’s stay (Monday, June 9-16) at The Rose Hostel in St Julian’s will set you back £349. This is based on two adults staying in a seven-bed mixed dorm. However, if you want a more luxurious trip – check out Grand Hotel Excelsior.

Located in Valetta, this stunning resort boasts a large outdoor and indoor pool, a private beach, spa, and three restaurants. You can splurge out on the Superior Deluxe Double Room with a sea view for £1,659 on the exact same dates.

*Prices based on Skyscanner and Booking.com listings at the time of writing.

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