“We’ve Got NOTHING to Be Sorry For.” — David and Victoria Beckham have finally drawn a fierce, immovable line as the family rift with Brooklyn explodes into full public view, insiders revealing the couple are heartbroken but done backing down, with one source saying David snapped, “I will not apologise for being a father,” while Victoria, shaken yet steely, reportedly told friends, “I’ve spent my life protecting my family — I won’t start begging now,” as tensions harden and the silence between them grows louder by the day; those close to the Beckhams say the message to Brooklyn is brutal in its simplicity — the door isn’t locked, but it won’t be grovelled open — and as fans watch in stunned disbelief, one painful truth hangs in the air like a crack in glass: this isn’t a spat, it’s a standoff, and if no one blinks soon, the fracture could become permanent.

Victoria Beckham and David Beckham appeared to send a pointed and unmistakable message to their estranged son Brooklyn Beckham on Boxing Day, as the Beckham family feud showed no sign of easing over Christmas.

The famous couple shared a video of themselves dancing together at their Cotswolds home to Guilty by Barbra Streisand and Barry Gibb — a song whose lyrics, “We’ve got nothing to be sorry for,” immediately caught the attention of fans and critics alike. For many, it felt far from coincidental.

The post landed just days after reports claimed Brooklyn wants his parents to apologise to him and his wife, Nicola Peltz, following weeks of tension that have spilled publicly across social media. But the mood from David and Victoria’s festive post suggested reconciliation may not be imminent.

Despite Brooklyn remaining in the US with Nicola and her family, Victoria and David shared a series of smiling family moments from Christmas, presenting a united front with their other children. One image showed David tenderly embracing daughter Harper, while another featured Victoria posing with son Cruz. The couple were also joined by close family members, including Victoria’s parents Jackie and Anthony and David’s mother Sandra.

Victoria captioned the now-viral dancing clip with playful confidence, writing that she and David were giving their “very best Barry and Barbra” on Christmas Day, signing off with kisses from them both.

Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, Brooklyn marked the festive period in a very different way. He spent Christmas in the US with Nicola’s family, sharing posts that underlined where his loyalties currently lie. On Christmas Eve, he described Nicola as “my everything” in a loved-up Instagram post — a move many saw as another subtle but deliberate message to his parents after blocking them on the platform.

Brooklyn also shared glimpses of his Christmas Day activities, including playing tennis with American pro Reilly Opelka and Nicola’s brother Bradley, basking in the Californian sunshine while his family gathered back in the UK.

The rift appears deeper than ever. Earlier this week, Cruz Beckham revealed that Brooklyn had blocked the entire family on Instagram, including his parents and even his younger sister Harper. Cruz insisted that David and Victoria would never unfollow their son, explaining instead that they all woke up to find themselves blocked.

Sources close to the situation have claimed Brooklyn believes his parents owe him and Nicola an apology, with tensions reportedly fuelled by what was described as a sustained period of negative briefings aimed at his wife. According to those claims, repairing the relationship would require acknowledgment of the pain caused — something that, so far, has not happened.

While David and Victoria continue to put on a brave and united front at home, those close to the family say the ongoing feud has taken a particular emotional toll on the grandparents, who are said to be heartbroken at the prospect of not seeing Brooklyn over Christmas.

As the festive season draws to a close, the dancing video — light-hearted on the surface — has come to symbolise something far heavier: a family stalemate, played out to a soundtrack that leaves little room for compromise.

SAD NEWS ANNOUNCED LIVE ON AIR 𝐁𝐁𝐂 Breakfast hosts delivered a heartbreaking update during today’s broadcast as tributes poured in for the missing swimmers. Voices trembled. The studio fell quiet. And across the country, hearts broke together.

BBC Breakfast hosts announce sad news on air as tributes pour in for missing swimmers

BBC Breakfast presenters Charlie Stayt and Emma Vardy paid tribute to Matthew Upham and another man who went missing during a Christmas Day swim in East Devon

Charlie Stayt opened the show with some hearbreaking news (Image: BBC)

BBC Breakfast presenters Charlie Stayt and Emma Vardy delivered some devastating news as they opened Saturday’s programme. The pair paid tribute to one of the swimmers who disappeared following the Christmas Day swim off the East Devon coast.

Charlie opened the bulletin: “Good morning, Saturday, the 27th of December. Our main story today is that tributes are being paid to one of the two men who are missing off the East Devon coast, with his family saying he was deeply loved and will be forever missed.”

Emma added: “Police have called off the search for 63-year-old Matthew Upham and another man in his 40s who were among a number of people who got into difficulty in the sea during a Christmas Day swim in Budleigh Salterton. Our reporter Rebecca has the story.”

Broadcasting from the scene in Devon, Rebecca explained: “Antique dealer Matthew Upham was among the swimmers to enter the sea at Budleigh Salterton on Christmas morning.

“He was one of two men who police say are still missing after getting into difficulty while taking part in what was meant to be an unofficial but joyful Christmas tradition,” reports the Express.

Tributes have been paid to the beloved antiques dealer (Image: BBC)
Providing additional information, the BBC reporter continued: “A massive emergency search began just before 10.30am, only called off at last light.

“On social media, Matthew’s family says they’re heartbroken by their loss and wanted to thank the emergency services for their tireless efforts and professionalism. They say Matthew is deeply loved and will be forever missed.

“The second man, in his 40s, also went missing during the swim. Several other swimmers needed help from the emergency services, with a number attending the hospital as a precaution.”

Mike Brown, who was also present at the event, told BBC Breakfast, “The conditions were worse than normal”.

Charlie Stayt and Emma Vardy on BBC Breakfast (Image: BBC)
He said, “It was much worse conditions than normal, and some of the worst conditions I’ve ever tried to swim in. With hindsight, it was clearly a mistake to try and get in.”

Mike also recounted being rescued by two men who ventured into the sea to assist him after he found himself in difficulty.

He added, “Two local guys, whom I need to try and find and thank, basically waded in in their clothes and tried to get me out. One got knocked over, and they aborted the first time. Then another wave hit me. I managed to hold on, and then the second time they came in, I was unable to stand, and they took an arm each and dragged me to safety. And as quick as it started, it was over. I was on the beach, and I was safe.”

BBC Breakfast airs daily at 6am on BBC One.

Strictly’s Dianne Buswell admits ‘my little secret’ as she shares adorable Joe Sugg baby update

It was back in September that the professional dancer announced she was expecting a baby with her boyfriend, Joe Sugg

Strictly Come Dancing star Dianne Buswell

Dianne Buswell has shared some pictures from when her pregnancy was her ‘little secret’ from her Strictly Come Dancing co-stars as she compared pictures from then to now as she prepares to welcome her first child.

It was back in September that the professional dancer announced she was expecting a baby with her boyfriend, Joe Sugg, who fans will recall she met on the BBC One dance show back in 2018 when they were partnered together and made it to the final.

They shared an adorable announcement video on social media, in which the parents-to-be could be seen in a clip standing behind a wooden easel with paint and paintbrushes as they got to work on their masterpiece.

The playful clip, set to the iconic Elton John track, Tiny Dancer, then saw the couple painting, before they turned the canvas around to reveal three stick figures – one of Dianne, one of Joe and a baby in the middle of them. They then captioned their post: “Our little baby boy [heart emoji]. We cannot wait to meet you.”

Dianne, who announced her pregnancy just before her return to Strictly, where she was seen being partnered with actor Stefan Dennis for the 2025 series, has since been sharing updates, alongside Joe, on their journey to becoming a mum and dad.

Joe is getting ready for his and Dianne’s arrival(Image: Dianne Buswell Instagram)

And in a new post, Joe shared a string of pictures in which he could be seen preparing for his little one’s arrival. In one snap, he could be seen putting a small nappy on a teddy, with Dianne resharing the photo to her Instagram Story and said: “HE’S PRACTISING,” alongside a string of almost-crying emojis.

Meanwhile, Dianne has given a glimpse at how much her baby bump has blossomed as she posted pictures of her sporting a catsuit for a recent pro dancer number on Strictly. During Sunday’s (December 7) Musicals Week results show, the professionals performed a sizzling group number to Cell Block Tango from Chicago.

But the performance was actually filmed back in the summer, when Dianne was yet to reveal she was pregnant. Having found the outfit during her recent day at Elstree Studios, the mum-to-be slipped it back on and highlighted the chance to her body.

Dianne slipped back into the outfit she wore before she announced her pregnancy

Alongside the images, the Australian star wrote: “Back when we filmed this number I hadn’t told any of the pros that I was pregnant yet it was my little secret …. last night I found my outfit on the rack and thought I would do a growth chart… He’s certainly grown.”

Fellow Strictly pro Lauren Oakley was quick to respond, gushing: “LOVE [heart emoji],” while Luba Mushtuk echoed: “[heart emoji] LOVE THIS.” Vito Coppola commented: “Gorjiiiiii,” as Strictly It Takes Two co-host simply posted a string of love heart emojis.

Fans were also quick to respond. @fabiak19 shared: “Love this!! how crazy what a woman’s body can do!! looks incredible.” @tamsin_niven wrote: “I find it so cool that you have all this documented that you can look back on as a family.” @rebecca.2001x shared: “Oh I love. It really does show you how quickly time goes.” @buswellla added: “Gorgeous gorgeous gorgeous!!! he has grown so much.”

“‘I SAID YES!’” — Gogglebox Favourite Sophie Sandiford Stuns Fans as She Announces Engagement, With Channel 4 Co-Stars Rushing In to Flood Her With Congratulations

The 28-year-old Channel 4 star shared the news with her 577,000 Instagram followers, posting photographs from what appears to have been the proposal setting.

The couple, who have been together for three years, celebrated at the Galgorm Resort in Northern Ireland.

Sophie Sandiford announced her engagement |INSTAGRAM

Sandiford posted “WE’RE ENGAGED” alongside heart and ring emojis, accompanying images that showed the pair in coordinating dressing gowns at the upscale venue.

The announcement quickly garnered attention from followers and fellow television personalities alike.

The newly engaged television personality displayed her engagement ring in the photographs, featuring a sapphire stone set in silver and encircled by diamonds.

Images from the celebration showed engagement balloons decorating the space where the couple toasted with champagne.

The Instagram post captured moments from their stay at the Northern Irish resort, with both Sandiford and Mckeown appearing in the shared photographs.

The couple marked the occasion with glasses of champagne, as shown in the social media images.

Sandiford’s ring choice features a central sapphire gemstone, complemented by a diamond surround on what appears to be a silver band. The celebration photographs included decorative balloons specifically marking the engagement milestone.

Well-known figures from television quickly responded to the engagement announcement with congratulatory messages.

Paul Chuckle, the 78-year-old children’s television presenter who is Sandiford’s great uncle, was among the first to react with enthusiastic emojis on the post.

Sandiford’s Gogglebox colleagues Jenny and Lee wrote: “Congratulations to you both much love to ya Jenny and Lee x”.

Her brother Peter’s wife Paige expressed her joy, commenting: “The best news!!! So happy for you both”.

The announcement attracted responses from personalities beyond the Channel 4 programme.

Amy Childs from TOWIE commented: “So happy for you”, whilst Emmerdale actress Michelle Hardwick added: “Yessssssss! Congratulations to you both”.

Sohpie and her brother Pete have starred in Gogglebox since 2017|CHANNEL 4

Former Emmerdale performer Natalie Ann Jamieson also shared her excitement, writing: “Ahhhh congrats gorgeous girl!”

Sandiford has appeared on the Channel 4 programme alongside her brother Pete since joining the cast in 2017.

The siblings have become regular fixtures on the reality series, which features families and friends commenting on television programmes from their homes.

The 28-year-old has built a substantial social media presence during her time on the show, amassing 577,000 followers on Instagram.

Her engagement announcement represents a significant personal milestone for the television personality, who has spent nearly eight years as part of the programme’s ensemble cast.

The Sandiford siblings have established themselves as fan favourites on the long-running series, which continues to be a staple of Channel 4’s programming schedule.

The TV presenter could not believe it was her 500th show.

Claudia Winkleman was left in tears on Sunday evening when Strictly Come Dancing judges brought the semi-final results show to an unexpected halt with a touching farewell gesture.

The emotional scenes unfolded as Craig Revel Horwood orchestrated a surprise tribute to both Ms Winkleman and co-host Ms Daly during what marked their final results programme on the BBC dance competition.

Head judge Shirley Ballas was also visibly moved during the unplanned moment, which caught both presenters completely off guard.

The pair had stunned viewers back in October when they revealed the 2025 series would be their last, bringing an end to their partnership, which has fronted the show since 2014.

Claudia Winkleman was left in tears | BBC

Ms Daly has been with Strictly since its inception in 2004, whilst Winkleman took over from Sir Bruce Forsyth a decade later.

The seemingly unrehearsed sequence began when Mr Revel Horwood summoned Tess down from her usual position onto the ballroom floor itself.

Both presenters appeared genuinely bewildered as they looked around, questioning what was unfolding before them.

The judge then escorted Ms Daly up to the greenroom, where he seated her alongside Ms Winkleman as the significance of the moment dawned on them.

Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman | BBC

It was the final occasion the entire panel would gather together in what has become affectionately known as the ‘Claudatorium’.

As the hosts took in the reality that they were presiding over their last ever results programme, the judges expressed their gratitude for the pair’s contributions over the years.

Mr Revel Horwood and his fellow panellists thanked both women for their dedication to the show throughout their respective tenures.

The tribute included a specially compiled highlights reel showcasing memorable moments from both presenters’ time on the programme.

Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman have been presenting the main Strictly Come Dancing show together since 2014 | BBC

The montage featured footage spanning their careers on the dance show, with particularly poignant clips of the late Mr Forsyth, who originally co-hosted alongside Daly before stepping down in 2014.

The legendary entertainer passed away in 2017, leaving the Strictly team devastated by his loss.

The package also included fresh interviews with the judging panel reflecting on their time working with the departing hosts.

Viewers at home were moved by the retrospective, with one fan posting on X: “This bloody montage has me emotional. Strictly will be unwatchable without Tess and Claudia! They’ll need to get two very special replacements.”

The judges presented Ms Winkleman and Ms Daly with their own unique golden Glitterball trophies, marking the first time such awards had been given to anyone other than competition winners.

Professional dancer Kai Widdrington assisted the panel in presenting the special mementoes to the departing hosts.

Mr Revel Horwood lightened the emotional atmosphere with some characteristic humour, quipping that he was particularly grateful to Ms Winkleman for lending him her dresses over the years.

He also paid tribute to Ms Daly’s legendary pizza parties held behind the scenes at the Elstree studio.

Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman | BBC

Both presenters wiped away tears as they absorbed the outpouring of affection from their colleagues.

Another viewer wrote on social media: “Oh don’t do this, I’m going to get emotional over Tess and Claudia leaving. DON’T DO THIS.”

Ms Daly reached a remarkable milestone this weekend, having now presented 500 editions of Strictly throughout her 21-year association with the programme.

The achievement was celebrated during rehearsals at Elstree on Saturday, when Mr Revel Horwood presented her with flowers and announced: “Tess, darling! This is, my love, to celebrate 500 Strictly shows that you have done! 500 of being fabulous darling.”

A visibly stunned Ms Daly responded: “No way! I can’t believe it,” adding: “That was the biggest surprise! I had no idea it was 500!”

The hosting duo will make their final appearance on the BBC dance show during this year’s Christmas special, though the corporation has yet to confirm who will succeed them.

Ms Winkleman also presents The Traitors, which has become a major hit for the broadcaster.

Ben Shephard Joyfully Announces That His Family Is About to Welcome a New Member: “My Son Is Now a Grown Man”

Ben Shephard, the well-known television presenter, recently shared some heartwarming news about his family. With a mix of pride and excitement, he announced that his family is expanding, and he reflected on the incredible journey of watching his son grow into adulthood. In his own words, “My son is now a grown man,” a statement that resonates deeply with many parents who have witnessed their children transition into independent adults. This announcement not only highlights a significant milestone in Shephard’s personal life but also offers fans a glimpse into the joys and changes that come with family growth.

Ben Shephard’s Family Expansion: A New Chapter Begins

The news of Ben Shephard’s family welcoming a new member has sparked joy among his followers and fans. As a beloved figure on British television, Shephard’s personal updates often draw attention, and this latest revelation is no exception. The phrase “My son is now a grown man” encapsulates the bittersweet emotions that come with seeing children mature and the anticipation that accompanies welcoming new life into the family.

Shephard’s announcement suggests that his family is entering a new phase, filled with fresh experiences and opportunities for bonding. Whether it’s the arrival of a new baby or another form of family growth, this development marks an important milestone. For many, family is the cornerstone of happiness, and Shephard’s openness about his journey offers inspiration and connection.

The Emotional Journey of Parenthood: From Childhood to Adulthood

Family games

What This Means for Ben Shephard’s Fans and Followers

As Ben Shephard’s family prepares to welcome a new member, the future looks bright and full of promise. This new chapter brings opportunities for creating lasting memories, strengthening relationships, and celebrating the joys of family life. Shephard’s heartfelt announcement serves as a beautiful reminder of the evolving nature of family and the happiness that comes with each new addition.

Fans and followers can look forward to more updates from Shephard as he navigates this exciting time. His openness about his family journey not only humanizes the celebrity but also inspires others to cherish their loved ones and embrace the changes that life brings.

How to Celebrate Family Milestones in Your Own Life

Inspired by Ben Shephard’s announcement? Celebrating family milestones can be a meaningful way to honor growth and change. Whether it’s a birthday, a new addition, or a significant achievement, taking time to acknowledge these moments strengthens family bonds. Consider hosting gatherings, creating photo albums, or simply sharing stories that highlight the journey.

Remember, every family’s story is unique, and embracing these milestones with joy and gratitude can enhance your connection with loved ones. Just as Shephard shares his happiness with the world, you too can find ways to celebrate and cherish your family’s special moments.

Conclusion

Ben Shephard’s joyful announcement that his family is about to welcome a new member, alongside his touching reflection that “My son is now a grown man,” offers a beautiful glimpse into the evolving nature of family life. This milestone not only celebrates growth and change but also highlights the enduring love that binds families together. If you’ve been inspired by Shephard’s story, why not take a moment to celebrate your own family milestones? Share your special moments with loved ones and create memories that will last a lifetime. Stay tuned for more updates on Ben Shephard’s family journey and join in the celebration of life’s precious moments!

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.

Davina McCall has quietly tied the knot with long-term partner Michael Douglas — only weeks after the celebrity hairstylist surprised her with a romantic proposal in Ibiza.

Davina McCall has secretly married long-term partner Michael Douglas just two months after the celebrity hairstylist proposed during a romantic trip to Ibiza

According to The Sun, the 58-year-old presenter exchanged vows with Douglas during an intimate ceremony on Friday attended only by immediate family and a handful of close friends. A second, slightly larger celebration followed the next day for an extended circle of loved ones.

It’s understood that the couple exchanged vows during an intimate ceremony on Friday, with a larger service carried out for a wider group of friends and family members the following day

The secret wedding comes as McCall continues to recover from significant health challenges, including brain surgery to remove a benign tumour and a recent breast cancer diagnosis. Friends say the emotional toll of these back-to-back scares prompted the couple to seize the moment rather than wait.

McCall has married her devoted partner after he supported her through surgery to remove a benign tumour from her brain and a recent breast cancer diagnosis

A source revealed:
“Their wedding was perfect — exactly what they wanted. A small venue near home, just ten very special people. After everything Davina has been through, it felt right to marry now. There was no reason to delay.”

McCall’s platonic friendship with Douglas became romantic after her 18-year marriage to Matthew Robertson (pictured) – the father of her two children – collapsed in 2018

The insider added that the newlyweds slipped back into normal life almost immediately — and, by coincidence, even attended another wedding the next day as husband and wife for the first time, proudly showing off McCall’s new ring.

McCall with her ex-husband in 2013. The couple were together for 18 years before confirming their separation and subsequent divorce

In October, she confirmed that Douglas popped the question during a sun-soaked escape to Ibiza. Speaking on Chris Evans’s Virgin Radio show, she described the moment he led her along cliff paths in steel-toe cowboy boots — a setting she didn’t expect would become a life-changing memory.

Friends claim the presenter’s recent spate of health issues prompted her decision to marry Douglas now

“I thought he just wanted to show me something beautiful,” she joked, recalling how unaware she was of what was coming next.

Douglas was by McCall’s side after doctor’s discovered a ‘very rare’ colloid cyst that affects only three in a million people, on her brain

Douglas has stood by McCall through a difficult medical journey. Doctors discovered a rare colloid cyst — affecting just three in a million people — and performed urgent surgery to prevent dangerous complications. Although she made a full recovery, McCall admitted she struggled emotionally afterward, fearing the health ordeal might push Douglas away.

On the Happy Mum Happy Baby podcast, she confessed:
“Sometimes I’d ask him the same thing seven times in half an hour. It wasn’t normal life. I even wondered if he wanted to stay with me.”

But Douglas reassured her: “Of course I love you. Of course I want to be with you.”

Despite making a full recovery, McCall admitted she was left questioning if Douglas wanted to stay in the relationship following her operation

Only a month ago, McCall revealed her breast cancer diagnosis — discovered after regularly checking herself thanks to posters from Lorraine Kelly’s Change + Check campaign at ITV studios. The cancer was caught early, but she will undergo radiotherapy in January as a precaution.

‘

In the end, we had a chat and he said, “What are you talking about? I love you, of course I want to be with you,”‘ she recalled

Little more than a month ago, the presenter confirmed she has been diagnosed with breast cancer

Friends say these twin scares brought clarity: love, family, and time were too precious to postpone.
“Neither of them sees the point in waiting,” a source told New! magazine.
“They’re in their fifties, Davina has been married before, and they simply want to embrace life.”

The presenter stressed her cancer had been caught early, but would still require five days of radiotherapy in January as an ‘insurance policy’ to remain free of the disease

Although McCall once envisioned a big wedding, insiders say she ultimately chose simplicity — focusing only on love, intimacy, and the people who matter most. A larger showbiz celebration may come later, but for now, the couple are revelling in the quiet joy of having already said “I do.”

McCall continues to recover, telling followers she found the lump only because she checked it each time she used the studio restroom while filming The Masked Singer.
“It kept coming back… and that’s when I knew something was wrong,” she explained.

Despite ongoing treatment, she remains optimistic, grateful, and supported — now as a newlywed.

Barbara Windsor‘s widower Scott Mitchell was left devastated when his wife died from Alzheimer’s Disease in 2020 at the age of 83.

Scott, 62, became a carer for the EastEnders actress in 2014 when she fell ill with the disease and the pair were married for 20 years before her death.

Now, on the five-year anniversary of her passing, he has had his broken heart mended by Barbara’s former soap co-star Tanya Franks.

Scott and Tanya initially bonded through their work in raising money for dementia charities and were close friends for years before their relationship turned romantic.

Tanya, 58, played drug addict prostitute Rainie Cross on EastEnders, appearing sporadically on the soap from 2007 to 2022 over 382 episodes and worked with Barbara on the BBC series before her health began to decline.

Scott and Tanya went public with their relationship in July 2023, having grown close while campaigning together for dementia awareness following Barbara’s diagnosis.

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Barbara Windsor’s widow Scott Mitchell had his broken heart mended by her former EastEnders co-star Tanya Trank who he has been dating for two years

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Scott, 62, became a carer for Barbara in 2014 when she fell ill with the disease and the pair were married for 20 years before her death in 2020 (pictured in 2019)

In 2019, Scott ran the London Marathon alongside Tanya and raised thousands for Alzheimer’s Research UK and Alzheimer’s Society in Barbara’s memory.

Alzheimer’s is close to Tanya’s heart as she also ran in honour of her step-father Derek.

In the wake of the loss of his wife, Scott detailed how his ‘incredible friendship’ with Tanya became a romance.

Speaking to This Morning hosts Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard, he said: ‘We forged an incredible friendship over the four years and something wonderful blossomed out of it.

‘The exact opposite of what dementia is. I’m very fortunate that I have a partner that doesn’t mind me speaking about my late wife.’

Scott and Tanya ran the London Marathon together a second time with fellow EastEnders stars as part of Bab’s Army.

Reflecting on his ongoing grief, Scott said: ‘I don’t think anyone ever gets over a loss of someone they love so deeply.

‘I think we find ways of carrying them with us, and that’s what I try to do every day.’

Scott refused to compare Barbara and Tanya but admitted they are ‘very different’ from one another.

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Scott and Tanya went public with their relationship in July 2023, having grown close while campaigning together for dementia awareness following Barbara’s diagnosis

He said: ‘Tanya is a wonderful lady. She’s very private. She’s not how Barbara was in that respect. Barbara was an open book.

‘Barbara told you every detail about her life. Tanya has no interest in celebrity. She is a very good actress.

‘I don’t compare the two ladies. They’re very different and I have love for both of them. I wouldn’t be with anyone who wasn’t truly lovely.’

The actor, who previously shared that he ‘still wakes up in panic’ worrying about the late star, has said he believes Barbara would have given her blessing for his new romance with Tanya.

Speaking to Kate Thornton on her White Wine Question Time podcast, Scott admitted: ‘I still wake in terror. I still have moments – this morning I was quite emotional – where I just miss her.

‘That doesn’t change. I think it will be with me forever.

‘I would like to believe she would be happy that someone was there by my side and that I wasn’t on my own. She always used to say to me, “I never want you to be on your own.”‘

Despite having some public support, Scott has faced some backlash for his relationship with Tanya.

Hitting back at criticism, he said: ‘There was a bit of, “Oh he’s moved on too fast.” And you just think, “How dare you?” People don’t know the pain. They don’t know what the grief has been.’

Scott also told the Sunday Mirror newspaper: ‘I’m incredibly happy. Me being unhappy and alone is not going to bring Barbara back.

‘Life is very much for the living and we all get one shot at living. Of course, there’s always someone on the internet, who’s going to say, “Oh, it didn’t take him long.”‘

Barbara was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2014 and kept her fight with the illness private for four years.

After her death, Scott said: ‘Her passing was from Alzheimer’s/dementia and Barbara eventually died peacefully and I spent the last seven days by her side.

‘Myself, her family and friends will remember Barbara with love, a smile and affection for the many years of her love, fun, friendship and brightness she brought to all our lives and the entertainment she gave to so many thousands of others during her career.

‘Barbara’s final weeks were typical of how she lived her life. Full of humour, drama and a fighting spirit until the end.’

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Tanya played drug addict prostitute Rainie Cross on EastEnders, appearing sporadically on the soap from 2007 to 2022 over 382 episodes

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Scott has said he believes Barbara (pictured in 2019) would have given her blessing for his romance with Tanya

After her death, Scott said he thought he would never be able to love again. He heartbreakingly said: ‘I was blessed to have crossed paths with Barbara.

‘On paper, it shouldn’t have worked, but it did with us and I am so thankful that she chose me to share her life with because I don’t think I will ever find another.’

Prior to her relationship with Scott, Tanya was married to fellow actor James Barriscale, with whom she founded film and theatre production company Stock-pot Productions.

He played Jonathan Malnet, the adoptive father of Jade Green on the soap.

James also starred in The Bill. It is not known when the couple split.

Barbara and Scott married in 2000 and their romance was controversial at the time due to their 27-year age gap.

While little is known of his dating life prior to meeting the iconic star, Scott has shed light on the intricacies of their romance, amid rumours they had ‘an open marriage’.

He explained that their relationship was not a ‘closed book’, with Barbara not wanting her husband to ‘stop living his life to the full’. In the book, he wrote: ‘Ours was not an open relationship, but it wasn’t a closed book either…

‘She had always said sex was sex and love was love, and she wasn’t one for double standards, so she kept her reservations to herself and never asked me directly.’

Former cocaine addict Scott was supported by Barbara through his battle, as she revealed in her autobiography: ‘I think I could have stopped Scott’s spiral of self-destruction had it not been for another craving that transformed him from the wonderful guy I loved into a sad, pathetic creature I hardly recognised.

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In 2019, Scott ran the London Marathon alongside Tanya and raised thousands for Alzheimer’s Research UK and Alzheimer’s Society in Barbara’s memory

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Tanya was previously married to fellow actor James Barriscale. He played Jonathan Malnet, the adoptive father of Jade Green on the soap (pictured in 2015)

‘I would look at him and think: I’ve done nothing wrong and yet I’ve managed to ruin this man’s life.

‘Scott would see the tears in my eyes and promise to go on the wagon. But it never lasted for more than three or four days and then he would be off on another bender.’

Eventually, Scott received treatment for his addiction with the guidance of Elton John’s manager John Reid and treatment from therapist Beechy Colclough.

The Daily Mail has launched a drive to defeat dementia after shocking statistics showed the disease is still the UK’s biggest killer, accounting for one in nine deaths and claiming 76,000 lives each year.

This newspaper’s Defeating Dementia campaign, in association with the Alzheimer’s Society, aims to raise awareness of the disease, increase early diagnosis, boost research and improve care.

Dementia patients suffer a ‘cruel injustice’ as they often face higher care bills and there are no drugs available on the NHS to slow down, cure or prevent the condition.

However, at odds with its impact, the disease receives less funding for research than some other major illnesses, such as cancer, despite costing the economy a staggering £42billion a year.

Charities fear progress could stall after dementia was removed from official NHS planning guidance this year, effectively signalling to managers and clinicians that they should deprioritise it.

The health service aims to identify at least two in three people living with dementia, so they can get the help and treatment they need. But rates collapsed during the pandemic and have never recovered, leaving tens of thousands to struggle alone.

Tim Baverstock, from the Alzheimer’s Society, said: ‘A third of people in England and Northern Ireland and nearly half of people in Wales living with dementia still don’t have a diagnosis.

‘This means that thousands are facing the devastating realities of dementia without access to the vital care, support and treatment a diagnosis can bring.

‘Alzheimer’s Society has been working tirelessly with successive governments to improve dementia diagnosis rates.

‘We’ve seen a gradual improvement in the national rate, which is on the precipice of hitting the 66.7 per cent target, but sadly access to a diagnosis can vary greatly from one postcode to another.’

In a stunning live broadcast that has sent shockwaves through the UK, Ant Middleton, the former Special Forces operative and television personality, has just dropped a bombshell announcement declaring his candidacy for London Mayor. This unprecedented revelation exploded onto the airwaves just moments ago, igniting a fierce political firestorm and leaving the nation reeling.
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Middleton’s unexpected entry into the race marks one of the most dramatic twists in British politics this year. Known for his rugged military background and no-nonsense persona on television, Middleton now steps into the political arena with a bold, unapologetic message aimed directly at the heart of  London’s governance.

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The news broke during a live broadcast, catching both viewers and political commentators off guard. Middleton delivered his shocking declaration with intense conviction, emphasizing his commitment to transforming London amidst growing concerns about crime, housing, and public safety.

This sudden move instantly reshapes the mayoral battle, previously dominated by established politicians. Middleton’s raw appeal and outsider status present a unique challenge to seasoned candidates, potentially galvanizing a new wave of voters hungry for change and decisive leadership.

Industry insiders are already scrambling to assess the impact of this announcement. Analysts note that Middleton’s military credentials could lend him credibility on security issues, a hot-button topic as London grapples with escalating gang violence and an overwhelmed police force.

The timing couldn’t be more charged. With the mayoral elections approaching, Middleton’s candidacy injects a fresh element of unpredictability and urgency into a race that was considered conventional until now. Polls, analysts warn, may now be obsolete as voter sentiments realign in response to this breakthrough.

Experts point out that Middleton’s communication style—direct, commanding, and charismatic—resonates strongly across demographic divides. His appeal transcends typical political boundaries, potentially attracting support from both traditional conservative bases and disenchanted centrists.

The political establishment is visibly rattled by this development. Conversations behind closed doors reveal a mix of apprehension and strategic recalibration as parties contemplate how to counter Middleton’s insurgent campaign that promises to upend the status quo.

Public reaction is pouring in across social media platforms, with thousands expressing shock, support, or skepticism. The rapid spread of this news underscores its gravity and hints at a highly contested and volatile election cycle ahead.

Housing experts anticipate that Middleton will address  London’s chronic housing affordability crisis with fresh ideas rooted in pragmatism and substantial infrastructural investment, a departure from the usual political rhetoric and broken promises.
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Transport and environmental advocates are keenly watching for Middleton’s stance on London’s pressing transit issues and climate commitments. His approach on these fronts could redefine priorities in the mayoral race’s policy debates.

This bombshell revelation from Ant Middleton has grasped the nation’s attention and shifted the political landscape overnight. Londoners now face a reshaped contest, fraught with heightened stakes and charged emotions unlike any seen before.

As the story unfolds, all eyes remain fixed on Middleton’s next moves, campaign strategy, and the reactions from rival candidates. The atmosphere is electric, and the city stands on the cusp of political upheaval that could redefine London’s future.

This is breaking news. Stay tuned as we continue to bring minute-by-minute updates on Ant Middleton’s game-changing announcement and the cascading effects reverberating through Britain’s capital and beyond.