“WASPI WOMEN EDGE CLOSER TO JUSTICE AS SHOCK COURT HEARING FORCES LABOUR TO RETHINK”

A case for state pension compensation for millions of women born in the 1950s is heading to court earlier than expected in the latest development for the Women Against State Pension Inequality (Waspi) campaign.

Judges will convene for an urgent case management hearing tomorrow (December 3) to examine how the Labour Government’s pledge to revisit its stance on Waspi compensation affects ongoing legal proceedings.

The Waspi campaign has lobbied MPs for payouts, claiming women impacted by the equalisation of the state pension age between the sexes were not adequately informed.

According to those impacted, this resulted in many women being able to sufficiently prepare financially for retirement as they believed they would be able to access payments earlier.

Labour is being urged to ‘reconsider’ their initial decision over state pension compensation for Waspi women.

Last year, an investigation by the Parliament and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) determined women born in the 1950s were victims of “maladministration” in the Department for Work and Pensions’ (DWP) handling of said changes.

The ombudsman asserted that Waspi women could be entitled to a level four payout, which is worth up to nearly £3,000, but noted it was the responsibility of MPs to vote on and set a compensation payment package.

Despite this, both the Labour and Conservative Governments refused to take up the case of state pension compensation. Ahead of the Budget, DWP minister Pat McFadden confirmed the Government were reexamining the case.

Tomorrow’s two-and-a-half-hour judicial session on comes just six days before the scheduled judicial review challenging ministers’ initial rejection of compensation recommendations.

Angela Madden, chair of the Waspi campaign has criticised the lack of action from Government

The hearing represents an unexpected development in the litigation, with the court seeking to understand the ramifications of the Work and Pensions Secretary’s commitment made in November to reconsider the original decision to reject a payout.

Waspi’s legal challenge against the Government’s dismissal of compensation proposals remains scheduled for December 9 and December 10, though the campaign group has instructed solicitors to pursue guarantees about the reconsideration process.

Notably, the campaign group wants clarity on timelines and procedures before deciding whether to proceed with the full hearing. Waspi campaigners fear ministers might produce another decision mirroring the original rejection, complete with what they describe as identical legal deficiencies currently under challenge.

No specific deadline has been provided for completing the reconsideration, heightening concerns about potential delays in resolving the long-running dispute over state pension age changes.

Angela Madden, who chairs WASPI, acknowledged that November’s announcement marked significant progress as ministers conceded crucial evidence had been overlooked when rejecting the Ombudsman’s recommendations on compensation and injustice findings.

However, she criticised the Government’s reluctance to clarify its approach to the reconsideration or provide a definitive schedule.

“Our lawyers have been pressing the Government on these and other matters,” Ms Madden stated.

“The imminent court hearings may not be necessary, but only if we can be confident the Government is willing to reconsider in the right way.”

Campaigners are calling on policymakers to do more for women born in the 1950s | WASPI

She described the issue of Waspi compensation as being “high stakes” for women impacted by the perceived historic injustice.

The impact extends beyond the millions of affected women to the integrity of the Ombudsman system itself, according to Ms Madden, who warned that public trust in grievance procedures against government departments hangs in the balance.

“Most importantly of all, every 13 minutes, a Waspi woman dies without seeing justice,” she said, underlining the human cost of continued delays.

After months of heartbreak, Pete Wicks has gently opened a new chapter — introducing fans to his new puppy following the devastating loss of his beloved dog Peggy.

The former TOWIE star, 37, took to Instagram on Saturday to share tender photos of himself cuddling a four-month-old puppy named Rodney, nestled on his lap. The moment was made even more emotional as Pete revealed the pup has already bonded with his longtime companion, French bulldog Eric.

“Everyone meet 4-month-old Rodney,” Pete wrote. “Eric’s new little brother. Thank you to @dogstrust and @dogstrust_westlondon.”

But behind the sweet images was a raw admission that stopped fans in their tracks.

“Most people know that I lost my Peggy a few months ago and it broke my heart,” he continued. “I haven’t really spoken about it and I don’t want to… she was irreplaceable.”

“Getting another dog isn’t about trying to replace who I’ve lost,” he said. “It’s about being able to open my heart, home, and provide a safe place and love for another dog who needs it.”

The emotional post came just weeks after Pete revealed that Peggy had passed away following months of treatment. He shared the news quietly on his Staying Relevant Podcast, explaining that her death had occurred around a month earlier.

Pete admitted he had avoided speaking publicly about the loss, but knew fans would notice Peggy’s absence when he brought Eric into the studio for a recording session.

“On a sad note,” he told listeners at the time, “the reason Peggy’s not here is because I lost her recently… that’s why Eric is here with everyone in the office. He’s been lonely.”

Back in July, Pete had previously warned followers that Peggy was seriously unwell, revealing she was undergoing “months of treatment” after he had nearly lost her.

The past year has clearly taken its toll. While promoting his U series For Dogs’ Sake earlier this month, Pete admitted it had been “a heavy year” and revealed plans to spend Christmas Day quietly — just him and Eric.

“I imagine I’ll sit on my own with Eric and have a Pot Noodle,” he said candidly. “I normally spend Christmas on my own with the dogs.”

Having filmed extensively at Dogs Trust’s Basildon rehoming centre, Pete has long been vocal about responsible adoption. He admitted that while he wants to save every dog he meets, choosing to adopt again was something he approached with care — especially with Eric now aged 12.

“It’s about finding the right dog that fits your lifestyle,” he explained. “It’s not just down to me. I’ve got to ask Eric. It has to be right for him too.”

Pete first adopted Peggy in 2018 after rescuing her through French Bulldog Saviours. Two years earlier, in 2016, he rescued Eric from the Dogs Trust centre near where he grew up in Basildon, Essex.

Now, with Rodney curled up beside Eric, fans say it feels like a small but meaningful step forward — not a replacement, but a reminder that love can return, even after loss.

And for Pete, it seems the healing has quietly begun.

The new mum took to Instagram to share the wonderful newsCredit: Instagram

Perrie Edwards has welcomed her second child — a baby girl — with fiancé Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, sharing the joyful news with fans in a tender social media post.

Perrie Edwards and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain have welcomed their second childCredit: Instagram

The new mum, 32, took to Instagram on Saturday afternoon to announce the arrival, posting an adorable black-and-white photograph just after 2pm. The intimate image shows Perrie cradling her newborn daughter while Alex and their young son gently place their hands on the baby.

She’s already mum to four-year-old AxelCredit: Instagram

Alongside the photo, Perrie revealed their daughter’s name — Alanis Valentine — adding a heart emoji as fans and friends flooded the comments with messages of love and congratulations. Among those reacting was singer Pixie Lott, who wrote: “Congratulations, so beautiful!”

She revealed her pregnancy back in SeptemberCredit: instagram/perrieedwards

The former Little Mix star and her footballer fiancé are already parents to son Axel, four, making the newborn their second child together.

The Pregnancy Reveal That Melted Hearts

Perrie first announced she was expecting back in September, sharing a heartfelt black-and-white video on Instagram. In the clip, she was seen walking away from the camera wearing a custom cropped T-shirt.

The message printed on the back read: “If he wanted to, he would …”
Moments later, Perrie turned to reveal her growing baby bump, with the front of the shirt finishing the sentence: “…And he did.”

Alex then joined her in the frame for a sweet embrace, kissing her on the cheek as their son Axel ran in to hug his mum’s belly. The post was captioned simply: “Guess what hunnies…”

Her Little Mix bandmates were quick to react to the happy news. Jade Thirlwall wrote: “Love you and so happy for you all,” while Leigh-Anne Pinnock added: “Just the best news! Love you all.”

A Joyful Arrival After Heartbreak

Alex and Perrie got engaged back in 2022Credit: Instagram

The birth of Perrie and Alex’s daughter comes after the singer previously opened up about suffering two miscarriages — one before the birth of Axel and another later in her pregnancy journey.

Speaking on We Need To Talk with Paul C Brunson last year, Perrie recalled first realising something was wrong during her pregnancy while rehearsing for Little Mix’s final tour.

“I thought, ‘I don’t feel good.’ Every symptom under the sun,” she said. “I was like, ‘I think I’m pregnant.’”

As the pregnancy progressed beyond five months, Perrie said she sensed medics had spotted an issue during a scan.

“We went for what was meant to be a 20-week scan, but we were actually 22 weeks — and that was the worst day of my life,” she explained. “I just knew something was wrong. I’ve never experienced anything like it — it felt like everything went into slow motion.”

Two weeks later, Perrie and Alex were given the devastating news that there was no heartbeat.

“I remember sobbing,” she said. “Alex was injured at the time and couldn’t really drive. He was struggling, and I couldn’t see straight. We were completely distraught. We lost the baby at around 24 weeks.”

A Family Growing Stronger

Perrie and Alex confirmed their relationship in 2017 and welcomed their first child, Axel, four years later. The couple got engaged in 2022 but have yet to tie the knot.

Now, with the arrival of baby Alanis Valentine, fans are celebrating a deeply emotional and hopeful new chapter for the couple — one marked by love, resilience, and the quiet joy of family.

Both father and son reveal very different views on stepping onto the Strictly dance floor…

Barney Walsh has teased the possibility of one day stepping into the Strictly Come Dancing spotlight, as speculation continues to swirl around his father Bradley Walsh being lined up as a potential new host of the iconic BBC show.

Barney would be up for doing the show one day (Credit: YouTube)

Earlier this year, long-time presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman confirmed they would be stepping away from Strictly — instantly triggering a frenzy of debate over who could replace them. Since then, a string of familiar TV faces have been tipped for the role, but one name has stubbornly remained near the top of the rumour list: Bradley Walsh.

Bradley has been in the running for months (Credit: ITV)

With father and son currently preparing for the return of Gladiators, the duo found themselves fielding questions not just about their latest project — but whether Strictly could ever be in their future, either as host or contestant.

Would Bradley or Barney Walsh ever do Strictly?

Speaking to Heat Magazine ahead of Gladiators’ return on January 17 at 5.45pm on BBC One, Bradley and Barney were asked directly whether either of them would consider taking part in Strictly Come Dancing.

Bradley’s answer was immediate — and firm.

“Um, no,” he admitted. “I love the show too much. I’m not a dancer. I can’t dance. It’s one of our favourite shows at home — my wife and I love it. I wouldn’t want to ruin that.”

While Bradley made it clear he’s happiest watching from the sofa, his son Barney was far less definitive.

“I think never say never,” Barney said, carefully leaving the door ajar. “But right now, my passion is in making shows and acting. That’s what I want to continue doing.”

The pair were also asked if they’d consider appearing on The Traitors, which they both described as “fun” — though neither expanded much further on the idea.

Hosting rumours refuse to die down

Of course, Bradley stepping onto the Strictly dance floor would be impossible if he ends up hosting the show — something many viewers are quietly hoping will happen.

As of January 17, the BBC has still not officially announced who will replace Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. However, the rumour mill has been in overdrive, with Bradley widely reported as a front-runner.

Several reports have suggested he could co-host alongside Alex Jones or Holly Willoughby, adding further fuel to the speculation.

Bradley finally addressed the rumours publicly in December during an appearance on Scott Mills’ BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show, where he appeared alongside Denise Welch.

“Presenting Strictly would ruin the weekend!” he joked. “I like my Fridays and Saturdays — football and television. It’s a big old commitment.”

But his protestations didn’t convince everyone.

Denise quickly quipped: “Because he’s got that twinkle, I never believe Bradley Walsh, whatever he says. It could be a long-winded way of saying he’s doing it.”

Scott Mills then added even more intrigue, claiming: “He did tell one of the staff he’s doing it with Alex Jones.”

A Strictly family future?

So could Bradley Walsh end up hosting Strictly — while his son Barney eventually takes to the dance floor as a contestant?

Stranger things have happened in television history. And if it did come to pass, it would undoubtedly make for must-watch TV.

George Moran’s moving tribute to his wife, Tatiana Schlossberg. A loving remembrance of her courageous battle against cancer.

“In November 2025, Caroline Kennedy stood beside her daughter Tatiana Schlossberg with the quiet strength that has defined generations of Kennedy women, offering unwavering love and support as her 35-year-old daughter courageously shared her journey with acute myeloid leukemia in a deeply personal essay published in The New Yorker, revealing a diagnosis that had come just hours after the joyful birth of her second child, Josephine, in May 2024, when doctors noticed an unusually high white blood cell count that led to the discovery of a rare form of blood illness with a mutation called Inversion 3, found in less than two percent of cases, a moment that transformed celebration into medical crisis and required the kind of resilience that only love and family bonds can provide.

Tatiana’s essay, published on the 62nd anniversary of her grandfather President John F. Kennedy’s passing, demonstrated remarkable courage as she opened her heart to readers about the shock of her diagnosis, writing that she had swum a mile in the pool just the day before delivery while nine months pregnant, feeling healthy and strong with no indication that anything was wrong, making the sudden news almost impossible to comprehend as she tried to reconcile her active, vibrant life with the reality doctors were presenting to her in those first overwhelming hours after welcoming her daughter into the world.

Throughout her journey, which included five weeks initially at Columbia-Presbyterian Hospital in New York, followed by intensive chemotherapy treatments at home, two bone marrow transplants with stem cells generously donated first by her sister Rose Schlossberg, who turned out to be a perfect match and gave her sister this precious gift without hesitation, and later by an anonymous young donor from the Pacific Northwest whose selfless decision to join the bone marrow registry made hope possible, plus participation in multiple clinical trials including CAR T-cell therapy as her medical team worked tirelessly to find treatments that could give her more time with her beloved family, Tatiana was surrounded by an incredible network of love centered on her parents, Caroline and Edwin Schlossberg, who visited her hospital room almost daily, held her hand through difficult moments, helped care for their grandchildren Edwin and Josephine, and provided the kind of steady, unconditional support that parents offer their children regardless of age or circumstance.

Caroline Kennedy, who has faced profound personal loss throughout her life including the passing of her father when she was just five years old, her mother Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis in 1994, her uncle Senator Edward Kennedy in 2009, and her cousin John F. Kennedy Jr. in a plane crash in 1999, drew upon reserves of strength built over decades to support her daughter through every appointment, every treatment, every difficult conversation with doctors, and every moment when hope felt fragile, embodying the grace under pressure that has long been associated with the Kennedy family while simultaneously experiencing the unique heartbreak of a mother watching her child face an illness beyond anyone’s control.

Edwin Schlossberg, Tatiana’s father, the renowned designer and artist who has been Caroline’s devoted partner since their marriage in 1986, stood equally strong alongside his daughter, bringing his quiet wisdom, creativity, and deep love to support both Tatiana and her young family, helping to create moments of normalcy and joy for his grandchildren even during the most challenging days, reading stories to three-year-old Edwin, holding baby Josephine with tender care, and ensuring that family bonds remained strong and that his daughter felt surrounded by love at every turn.

Tatiana’s younger siblings, Rose Schlossberg, a talented actress and producer who not only donated bone marrow to save her sister but also provided emotional support through countless hospital visits and caring for her niece and nephew, and Jack Schlossberg, who had just completed his dual graduate degrees from Harvard Law School and Harvard Business School and recently announced his intention to run for Congress in New York’s 17th district, visited frequently and brought laughter, encouragement, and the kind of sibling connection that transcends words, with Jack later sharing Tatiana’s essay on social media with the poignant caption “Life is short – let it rip,” honoring his sister’s courage in speaking her truth and living authentically even while facing unimaginable circumstances. Perhaps most profoundly moving was Tatiana’s description of her husband, Dr. George Moran, whom she called perfect, kind, funny, and a handsome genius, a man who transformed from partner to primary caregiver without hesitation, sleeping on hospital floors to stay near his wife, managing all communications with doctors and insurance companies, handling household responsibilities while caring for their two young children, preparing nutritious food according to strict dietary requirements, bathing Tatiana when she couldn’t do it herself, sitting beside her through difficult nights when medication affected her moods, and never once wavering in his devotion or allowing her to face any moment alone, embodying the deepest meaning of marriage vows through his actions every single day.

In her essay, Tatiana wrote with heartbreaking honesty about her greatest fears, particularly that her children might not remember her clearly, that three-year-old Edwin’s memories would become confused with photographs and stories others told him rather than genuine recollection of time spent together, and that baby Josephine, whom she often couldn’t hold or care for directly due to infection risks following her transplants, might never truly know her mother’s love except through the devotion of others who would keep her memory alive, thoughts that any parent facing serious illness understands with profound sadness yet which Tatiana expressed with vulnerability and grace that touched countless readers.

Throughout her months of treatment, Tatiana remained focused on cherishing present moments, finding joy in reading  books with her son, celebrating small victories in her medical progress, expressing gratitude for the support surrounding her, and continuing to think about the environmental advocacy work that had defined her professional life, including her dream of writing a  book about the oceans, their challenges and possibilities, a project she realized with sadness she would not be able to complete but which represented her ongoing commitment to making the world better for future generations including her own children. Caroline Kennedy, serving at the time as U.S. Ambassador to Australia, a position she held from 2022 to 2024 before returning home to be closer to her family during Tatiana’s illness, demonstrated once again her ability to balance public duty with personal devotion, ultimately prioritizing her role as mother when her daughter needed her most, traveling between hospital visits, family gatherings, and the daily rhythms of supporting both Tatiana and her young grandchildren, creating stability and love during a period of tremendous uncertainty and challenge.

The family’s strength was tested further as Tatiana’s treatments, despite initial promise including a period of remission after her sister’s bone marrow donation, ultimately could not overcome the aggressive nature of her rare form of illness, with doctors eventually sharing during her latest clinical trial that they could keep her alive for about a year, perhaps, but that her time was limited, news that required extraordinary courage to hear, accept, and then share publicly in her November essay, demonstrating Tatiana’s commitment to honesty and her desire to use even her most difficult experiences to educate others about medical research, the importance of bone marrow donation, and the need for continued funding and support for patients facing serious illnesses.

On December 30, 2025, surrounded by the love that had sustained her throughout her 35 years, Tatiana passed away peacefully, with her family announcing through the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library Foundation with words that captured both their profound grief and the enduring beauty of her spirit, saying simply and powerfully that their beautiful Tatiana had passed away that morning and would always remain in their hearts, signed by George, their children Edwin and Josephine, her parents Ed and Caroline, and her siblings Jack, Rose, and Rory, a circle of love that reflects the legacy she leaves behind and the family bonds that will carry her memory forward. In the days following her passing, tributes poured in from around the world, with family members, friends, colleagues, and readers whose lives she had touched through her environmental journalism and her courageous final essay sharing memories of Tatiana’s intelligence, kindness, humor, and grace, with her cousin Maria Shriver remembering her as valiant, strong, courageous, smart, wicked smart, sassy, and full of light, humor, and joy, someone who used her words to educate others about protecting our planet and who brought brightness into every space she entered, while countless others expressed gratitude for her willingness to share her journey with such honesty and vulnerability, helping others facing similar challenges feel less alone and inspiring conversations about living fully in whatever time we have.

Caroline Kennedy, having now lost her daughter to an illness that struck without warning and progressed despite the best efforts of exceptional medical teams, stands as a testament to a mother’s enduring love and strength, having supported Tatiana through every step of her journey with dignity, devotion, and the kind of grace that comes from deep faith in family bonds, and now carries forward as grandmother to Edwin and Josephine, ensuring they grow up knowing their mother’s love through stories, photographs, and the values Tatiana embodied, while also holding space for her own grief as any mother would, having watched her child face the unfairness of a life cut far too short yet having also witnessed Tatiana’s remarkable courage, her capacity for love, and her determination to live meaningfully during every moment available to her.

Tatiana’s legacy lives on not only in her published work including her award-winning book Inconspicuous Consumption that won the Rachel Carson Environment  Book Award and continues inspiring readers to think differently about their environmental impact, and in her journalism that appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, The Washington Post, and other prestigious publications where her voice enriched important conversations about our shared planet, but more importantly in the love she shared with George and their children, in the memories held by her parents and siblings who witnessed her extraordinary grace under impossible circumstances, in the example she set of living purposefully and speaking truthfully even when facing profound challenges, and in the countless people inspired by her courage to cherish relationships, express gratitude, support medical research and bone marrow donation, and recognize that meaning comes not from the length of our days but from the depth of our connections and the positive impact we have on others and our shared world, lessons her family including Caroline Kennedy will carry forward as they honor her memory and ensure her children grow up knowing the remarkable woman who was their mother, a woman who faced the greatest challenge with grace, love, and unwavering commitment to what matters most in life.”

Shirley Ballas is once again open to romance — and this time, she knows exactly what she’s looking for.

Strictly Come Dancing head judge Shirley Ballas says she’s ‘had a date or two’ after splitting with boyfriend Danny Taylor just over a year ago

The Strictly Come Dancing head judge, 65, has confirmed she is officially back on the dating scene, more than a year after ending her relationship with actor Danny Taylor, 52, following the cancellation of their wedding.

As the old song goes, Shirley appears to be “in the mood for love” once again.

Shirley met Danny while they worked on the same pantomime in 2016, but she confirmed the end of their relationship last year.

“I may have had a date or two,” she admits candidly, revealing that after stepping back from romance to focus on caring for her mother Audrey, 88, she is now open to new possibilities.

“I know my truth. I know my authentic self,” Shirley says. “If I want to go out on a date, I will go. Nothing serious. No labels, no tags.”

Love Can Wait — Strictly Comes First

The Strictly head judge has been married twice, first to Sammy Stopford from 1980 to 1984, and then to Corky Ballas (pictured) from 1985 to 2007

Any romantic plans will have to pause briefly, however, as Shirley is preparing to embark on the Strictly Come Dancing Live arena tour, performing 30 shows across the UK in front of packed crowds of more than 10,000 people.

“I love meeting the audiences,” she says warmly. “I want to give as much time as I can to the people who come to see us, because without them, we wouldn’t have a show like we do.”

She joined Strictly as head judge in 2017, won viewers over immediately with her expert knowledge, strict standards and Scouse warmth

Between touring, teaching, adjudicating, and sharing a home with Audrey in southeast London, Shirley has still managed to make time for a little flirtation.

“I’ve met several nice people over the years,” she explains. “If somebody asks me out and I like them, I go. If I don’t, I don’t bother. But I am very careful. I’ll have known them for a while.”

A Life Shaped by Love and Loss

Shirley ended her relationship with Danny six months after they called off their wedding

Shirley was first married to ballroom dancer Sammy Stopford from 1980 to 1984, before tying the knot with her dance partner Corky Ballas in 1985. Together, they became champions of the ballroom world before separating in 2007.

Shirley’s main focus is still her mother, Audrey, who is ‘in remission from cancer and has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD]’

She joined Strictly Come Dancing as head judge in 2017, quickly winning viewers over with her expertise, high standards and unmistakable Scouse warmth. She later met Danny Taylor while appearing in the same pantomime in 2016, but confirmed their split in late 2024.

So what is she searching for now?

“Humour,” Shirley says. “And intellect.”

Revealing the secret to her slim physique she said: ‘I juice throughout the day and have only one meal. I’m the slimmest I’ve been since 2017. I do hotpod yoga every day and get quite upset if I can’t do it. That is my sanctuary’

Generosity matters too. “I’ve always been the person who pays for everybody, so it’s quite nice when someone says, ‘No, I’ve got this.’ Somebody smart, well kept, who takes care of themselves. I like that kind of guy.”

Discipline, Health — and One Chocolate at a Time

The man who catches Shirley’s eye will be dating someone exceptionally organised.

Speaking about going away on tour, Shirley said: ‘There’s always somebody around. I check in on Mum every couple of hours. She thinks I’m a total pain in the a***’

“I juice throughout the day and have one meal,” she reveals. “I’m the slimmest I’ve been since 2017.  I do hotpod yoga every day — it’s my sanctuary.”

Her diet is strict, though not joyless. “If I’m in my mum’s bedroom, she has a whole box of Quality Street — but I’ll just have one. Self-discipline is key.”

She adds: “I never leave the house without making my bed. I tidy before the cleaner comes. I write lists. I’m never late.”

As for Dry January? “I don’t really drink much anyway, but if I go on a date, maybe a nice bottle of wine and a brandy with one ice cube.”

Family Comes First

In regards to the scandals she added: ‘I don’t think anything taints the show,’ she says, defiantly. ‘We’re still thriving. We’ve still got a 54 per cent share of the TV audience’

Despite her openness to love, Shirley’s main focus remains her mother Audrey, who is in remission from cancer and also lives with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

“She’s doing the best one can do for an 88-year-old,” Shirley says.

Touring doesn’t worry her. “There’s always someone around. My best friend of 60 years lives across the road. I check in on Mum every couple of hours — she thinks I’m a total pain in the a***.”

Strictly, Scandals — and Standing Firm

Shirley’s fellow judge Anton Du Beke has made no secret of the fact he’d love to host, as his hero once did

Addressing the controversies that have surrounded Strictly, Shirley is unapologetically defiant.

“I don’t think anything taints the show,” she insists. “We’re still thriving. We’ve still got a 54 per cent share of the TV audience.”

On allegations involving former professionals, she is clear: “I only go by what I see. If I don’t see it, as my mother says, ‘Shut your gob, Shirley.’”

Her message to viewers is simple: “If you think the show is icky, switch it off. If you enjoy it, keep watching.”

Still Dancing, Still Standing

With extra tour dates added due to overwhelming demand, it appears the public has firmly voted in Strictly’s favour.

Shirley, escorted on tour by her trusted friend George — “my mini-bodyguard” — says she feels lucky, grateful and excited.

“Fans queue from four in the morning in the cold just for a cuddle and a photo. I think that’s wonderful,” she says.

As for what lies ahead? “It’s a little holiday, a chance to meet people — and I love every minute of it.”

Brooklyn is feuding with his family

Brooklyn Beckham could reconcile with his parents, it has been suggested, amid the 26-year-old’s ongoing feud with his family.

There have been reports for close to a year now claiming that Brooklyn is no longer speaking to his parents. It has also been claimed in recent weeks that he has blocked them on social media and issued them a legal letter.

Brooklyn isn’t in contact with his parents (Credit: CoverImages.com)

Brooklyn Beckham to reconcile with famous mum and dad amid feud?

In a new article for the Daily Mail, it has been suggested that Brooklyn may want to reconcile with his parents, despite being “keen to please” his wife, Nicola Peltz, who has also cut contact with the Beckhams.

“Brooklyn wants to do anything to make Nicola happy, but this is all getting out of control. I can’t imagine a world where Brooklyn wouldn’t want to see his parents again,” a source told the publication.

For now, the Beckhams have reportedly reluctantly accepted that Brooklyn doesn’t want to be in contact with them at present. It is worlds away from how close the family used to be. They were so close, in fact, that Brooklyn appeared to pay tribute to his dad, David, when he released his hot sauce brand.

Brooklyn’s hot sauce is called Cloud 23. 23 is the squad number David had on the back of his shirt at Real Madrid and LA Galaxy.

David and Victoria have ‘reluctantly accepted’ Brooklyn’s position (Credit: CoverImages.com)

Brooklyn is ‘very keen to please’ Nicola

The source then continued.

“It is clear that Brooklyn is very keen to please Nicola, but maybe, just maybe, he will at some point want to get back in touch with his parents,” they claimed.

“Nothing would make them happier.”

ED! has contacted Brooklyn’s representatives for comment.

Brooklyn and Nicola have no contact with the Beckhams (Credit: CoverImages.com)

Brooklyn Beckham’s legal letter to mum and dad amid feud

Earlier this month, it was reported that Brooklyn had sent his parents a legal letter.

According to The Sun, Brooklyn sent his parents a “desist” letter for them to only contact him through lawyers, and not to reach out via social media.

A source explained to the outlet that the reason Brooklyn blocked his family on Instagram was that Victoria and David were liking his posts.

The source added that Brooklyn allegedly feels like his parents are “ignoring” his wishes.

“He issued them with a letter at the end of last summer, asking for any correspondence to go via lawyers only, and wanted to try and make amends privately, not publicly,” the source claimed.

“They, of course, feel utterly bemused and devastated by this latest turn of events. There is no malice from their part. Only concern. But it’s clear that if there is going to be any reconciliation, it will be away from prying eyes,” they continued.

“This was a request via lawyers, not a direct legal threat. But it is an unprecedented move which shows how bad things have become.”

Lorna Luxe has shared the most devastating update of her life – revealing that doctors have told her husband John’s cancer is now terminal and that further treatment is no longer possible.

The 43-year-old influencer has taken her 1.6 million Instagram followers on every step of their journey since former banker John was diagnosed with stage four adrenal cancer in 2023. But after a traumatic festive period, Lorna has now confirmed that the disease has spread to other organs and the couple have been left clinging to hope.

In a heartbreaking post, she wrote:
“John’s condition has worsened and he was hit with sepsis over Christmas. He’s back home with me now, but we’ve been told his cancer has progressed to other organs so treatment is no longer an option. But one thing about John, in the 16 years we’ve been married, his mindset has never wavered. We’re looking for a bit of a miracle.”

Just weeks ago, Lorna had revealed that a complication from John’s chemotherapy left him in organ failure. At one point, intensive care doctors were preparing her for the worst.

“My man is back in hospital… and while we’re both putting a brave face on it, these past few days haven’t been easy,” she explained at the time. “A complication with his chemo left him with organ failure and the ICU team were preparing me for the worst. But John isn’t the average patient – he’s somehow defied the odds.”

Despite the grim prognosis, Lorna says her husband’s spirit remains unbroken. She added that he had even been teasing her for not sharing updates online, insisting that the community they’ve built has become a lifeline.

“He’s been telling me off for not posting,” she wrote. “This is as much for him as it is for you.”

The couple’s battle has been long and brutal. In April 2023, John was first diagnosed with stage three cancer and underwent chemotherapy. He went into remission in 2024 – only for the disease to return months later, spreading to his brain and adrenal gland. Last month, he underwent surgery to remove a brain tumour.

Now, with options exhausted, Lorna is leaning heavily on the love pouring in from fans.

“We’re both so grateful for the messages of support and genuine kindness you’ve given us,” she said. “I don’t think I’d have got through this year without you – it’s become my lifeline.”

Followers flooded her page with messages of hope and love, urging John to keep fighting and reminding Lorna she isn’t facing this alone.

Through unimaginable heartbreak, Lorna Luxe is still holding onto the same word she keeps repeating – miracle.

Britons have been filming themselves travelling to beaches in France and ‘destroying’ small   boats – gaining thousands of views in the process

Best vacation packages
Sanya Burgess is an award-winning journalist whose investigations have included revealing Deliveroo was not paying the living wage to all riders, despite the company’s pledge to do so. She has also tracked disinformation and far right hate speech in the UK during the Southport riots, conspiracy theories about the attempted shooting of Donald Trump and revealed that Elon Musk was paying some of Tommy Robinson’s legal fees. She has also worked on issues relating to Big Tech and underage gambling, as well as uncovering war crimes and human rights abuses in Iran, Myanmar and the UAE – including the ‘hostage’ tapes of the detained Dubai Princess Latifa.
British vigilantes who spearheaded efforts to fly England flags across the country have launched a new anti-migrant protest – attempting to block illegal Channel crossings.

Using the term “Operation Stop The Boats”, members of the group have been filming themselves 𝘴𝘭𝘢𝘴𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 small boats before they are used by migrants to cross the English Channel from France.

Posts on social media show members calling for other British men to join them in France, including making a direct appeal to football hooligans, saying “we need to make a stand”.

In one video message shared this week by a member of the Raise the Colours group – the grassroots movement that has seen flags fixed to lampposts, motorway bridges and roundabouts across England – two men are seen evoking military language and the spirit of the British fight against the Nazis in the Second World War.

Claiming to be recording from the northern French coast, one said: “Just like in the 1940s, we must take a stand, and it starts with the men of England and Britain.”

Making an appeal to “firms” – a phrase that refers to football hooligan groups – the other man added: “Our country is doing nothing. Weak government, weaker borders.

“They are doing nothing, so we need to make a stand, boys. Get the lads together, get your firms together, get the lads in the pub, get the lads down the bars, if you’re talking about it and you agree with what we are doing, give us a hand.”

The Government is under pressure to act after more than 36,000 people have crossed the English Channel in small boats (Photo: raisethecolours.org.uk/Instagram)
The Government is under pressure to tackle the issue of migration amid a record number of asylum applications, surging small    boat crossings and protests at hotels housing asylum seekers.

On Monday, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood set out a package of reforms to asylum policies aimed at tackling illegal migration, telling MPs the current situation is “out of control and unfair”.

The latest videos shared by those linked to the Raise the Colours group have separately been referred to as “Operation Overlord”.

Earlier clips showed two men saying they were taking matters of illegal migration into their own hands and filming themselves stamping on and smashing a small  boat’s engine.

In the clips, they refer to themselves as “patriots” and make a number of claims without evidence, such as that they are stopping “rapists and murderers” from “coming to a town near you”.

One video shared by the group
The flag-raising group, who have a combined 100,000 followers on X and Instagram, also posted a plea on X for donations last week, writing that they are: “STOPPING The   Boats, whether the migrants or government like it or not!”

Two videos from the group have recently been shared to the 1.7 million X followers of Tommy Robinson. The far-right figure and former leader of the English Defence League, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, has previously been accused of mobilising football hooligan firms in an attempt to launch anti-Muslim rallies across the country.

Separately, French media reports that the Dunkirk Public Prosecutor’s office has opened a preliminary investigation into “aggravated violence” against migrants by suspected British far-right figures.

One of the details being examined by the French prosecutor is the claim that in September, four men waving British and UK flags verbally and physically attacked migrants on the French coast. It is alleged that they told the migrants they were not welcome in England and proceeded to steal some of their belongings.

The men are not the first anti-migrant figures to travel to France in a bid to take matters into their own hands.
Best vacation packages

In September, Ukip, Nigel Farage’s former political party, posted a video to their X account showing what appeared to be sleeping migrants in France being woken by people flashing strobe lights in their faces and shouting at them.

Bob Mortimer has made a brutally honest confession about life after his emergency triple heart bypass — and it’s left fans both shocked and strangely moved.

The 66-year-old comedian, who survived a near-fatal cardiac event in 2015 when his heart stopped for 32 minutes, has admitted he’s choosing happiness over strict medical rules, even when those rules could extend his life.

“I’d rather take my chances”

After doctors discovered that 95% of his arteries were blocked, Mortimer was ordered to drastically reduce one of his greatest joys: cheese.

“The dietitian said I could have a matchbox-sized piece a week,” he recalled. “It broke my heart. Some people probably stick to it — but I think I’m in the group who’d rather have three years less.”

His refusal to follow the guidelines adds an unexpected twist to a health journey already packed with battles. Mortimer has previously spoken openly about living with arthritis, and last summer he was unable to walk after contracting shingles while filming his BBC series Mortimer & Whitehouse: Gone Fishing.

A man forever changed by a brush with death

Speaking on Where There’s A Will, There’s A Wake earlier this year, Mortimer shared how his near-death experience shifted his entire perspective on time and mortality.

“I don’t feel scared about death,” he said. “I just feel frustrated thinking I won’t see how stories end — my children’s, my wife’s, football, everything happening in the world.”

He even described a surreal moment when he felt himself drifting toward “the light at the end of the tunnel”:

“I was going towards it, feeling happier than I’ve ever felt. It was extraordinary. Then I woke up the next day and I was OK. I thought, ‘This is great — I no longer fear death.’”

A wedding moments before surgery

In one of the most dramatic turns in his story, Mortimer revealed he married his long-time partner Lisa Matthews just 30 minutes before his life-saving operation. Doctors warned him urgently, and by Monday morning, an emergency exemption allowed the couple to wed at 9:30am — with Mortimer entering surgery at 10am.

Lockdown fears and unwavering humour

Mortimer has also spoken candidly about his arthritis and how the 2020 lockdown affected his health:
“I’ve done no exercise, eaten so much, drunk so much booze. Lockdown probably took two years off my life.”

And yet, amid every scare, every diagnosis, every dramatic twist… one thing hasn’t changed: his sharp humour — and his unapologetic devotion to cheese.