CHRISTMAS FAMILY TWIST  Katie Price reunited with daughter Princess Andre for Christmas — after their feud — but only after Princess and Junior Andre spent the morning with dad Peter Andre. A make-up… or just a temporary truce?

Katie Price reunited with her daughter Princess on Christmas Day following their feud after she and her brother Junior spent the morning celebrating with their father.

The mother-of-five, 47, who shares Princess, 18, and Junior, 20, with ex-husband Peter Andre, 52, took to her Instagram Story on Thursday to share a sweet selfie with her daughter as they enjoyed the rest of the festive day together.

In the snap, Katie and Princess pouted for the camera while relaxing at home in comfy loungewear following the fall-out surrounding Katie’s involvement in Princess’ reality TV show, The Princess Diaries.

Feeling grateful to be surrounded by her loved ones, Katie captioned the post: ‘Me and my Princess (crown emoji) Just a one off picture from my Christmas Day but I’m surrounded with all my family.’

The post came just hours after Princess and Junior celebrated Christmas morning with their father, Peter and his wife, Emily, after previously revealing they would be splitting the day between both parents.

All dressed in matching tartan pyjamas, Princess and Junior spent the morning opening presents and stocking fillers.

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Katie Price, 47, reunited with her daughter Princess, 18, on Christmas Day and took to her Instagram Story on Thursday evening to share a sweet selfie as they enjoyed the rest of the festive day together following a row over her daughter’s reality TV show

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The post came just hours after Princess and Junior, 20, celebrated Christmas morning with their father, Peter, 52, and his wife, Emily, after previously revealing they would be splitting the day between both parents

The TV stars took to Instagram to share fun-filled snaps with 18-month-old Arabella, Millie, 11, and Theo, nine, whom Emily and Peter share.

‘In these moments today , I am the happiest man in the world. Love you so much family. Merry Xmas everyone ♥️♥️♥️♥️’, Peter said.

Junior and Princess revealed prior to Christmas that they had planned to spend their morning with Peter and the evening with their mother, Katie.

Mysterious Girl singer Peter recently saw his long-running feud with former glamour model and ex-wife Katie thrust back into the spotlight following the launch of their daughter Princess’s new reality show.

Junior told The Sun, he said: ‘So, how I do it every year is split between my parents and this year, I will be spending Christmas Eve and Christmas morning at my dad’s with my brothers and sisters there.

‘And then I’ll be going to my mum’s for the afternoon.’

He continued: ‘And then, yeah, probably just, yeah, spend the rest of the time there. Might stay there, might come back to mine, just depends.’

It comes after Princess revealed neither of her parents has watched her ITV2 reality show after its debut sparked a bitter fallout between the pair.

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All dressed in matching tartan pyjamas, Princess and Junior spent the morning opening presents and stocking fillers

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The TV stars took to Instagram to share fun-filled snaps with 18-month-old Arabella, Millie, 11, and Theo, nine, whom Emily and Peter share

The daughter of exes Peter and Katie let cameras into her life earlier this year, but her glamour model mother hit out after being deliberately excluded from filming.

Katie expressed her frustrations at being ‘disrespected’ and ‘disregarded’, claiming that Peter and his management team were behind the snub.

Princess told The Sun: ‘I actually don’t think either of my parents have watched the show. I don’t think it’s my dad’s thing, it’s more, it’s a show for people my age to watch, I think,’

Before adding: ‘I watched everything about five times, just to make sure everything is how I want it and to check everything’.

Daily Mail have contacted Peter Andre and Katie Price’s representatives for comment.

It comes after Daily Mail revealed that Peter and wife Emily have pulled out from the second season of Princess’s show, to quieten the ‘noise’ surrounding Katie’s onscreen absence.

During series one, Peter was filmed supporting Princess as she learned to drive and delivering an emotional speech at her 18th birthday party, an event Katie claimed she was excluded from.

The Princess Diaries, which has been renewed for two new seasons, also showed the teen at home with her family, including stepmother Emily, while Katie appeared only via a voice recording.

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It comes after Princess revealed neither of her parents has watched her ITV2 reality show after its debut sparked a bitter fallout between the pair

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The daughter of exes Peter and Katie let cameras into her life earlier this year, but her glamour model mother hit out after being deliberately excluded from filming

Katie vented her fury over being snubbed from Princess’s first-ever reality show during an angry outburst on her podcast.

The former glamour model was responding to claims that she was damaging her daughter’s growing image due to her well-documented personal problems, including drug and alcohol addiction, drink-driving arrests, and multiple bankruptcies.

Katie said: ‘I want the best for Junior and Princess, and I would never get in the way of it.

‘But what hurt my feelings, and it does upset me, is when your kids grow up, you go to their assemblies, you go to their Christmas things, you go to their awards, you go to their football matches or gymnastics, you’re involved in everything they do.

‘And knowing that, what my career has been, Princess is taking that same path, trying to do the same as what I’ve done, which I absolutely love and adore Princess.’

‘But I have not been allowed to go on any photo shoot, no signings or Superdrug openings or anything like that. Why? Because I’m not allowed and I’m not welcome.

‘And it puts Princess in a situation because I don’t want her to feel she has to choose between me and her work, because I want her to do well.

‘And I have said to Princess, just see how it feels for me because I should be there supporting you, I want to be there to support you like my family did. And I’m your mum, and especially as you’re doing stuff that I did, I’m proud of you and want to be there.’

Peter and Katie, who share Junior and Princess, were married for four years before splitting up in May 2009, with their divorce finalised later that year.

“I Couldn’t Hide Anymore”: Rachael Carpani’s Sister Breaks Silence on the Private Struggles Before the Actress’s Death

“I couldn’t hide anymore.”

Those words, shared through tears, marked the first time Georgia Carpani publicly addressed the loss of her sister, Rachael Carpani, whose sudden death at 45 sent shockwaves through the entertainment world and among fans of McLeod’s Daughters.

For years, Rachael maintained a composed public image — professional, warm, and seemingly resilient. Behind that image, Georgia says, was a deeply private struggle that few outside the family ever saw.

Speaking with raw honesty, Georgia revealed that Rachael had battled in silence for an extended period, choosing to shield others from the depth of her pain. Friends, colleagues, and fans saw a familiar smile, but at home, the reality was far more complex.

“She didn’t want to worry anyone,” Georgia said. “She always thought she could handle it.”

According to her sister, Rachael carried her burdens quietly, determined not to let personal struggles define her or overshadow her work. That determination, however, came at a heavy emotional cost.

In her final weeks, Georgia says Rachael began to open up in ways she never had before. The conversations were difficult, marked by fear, exhaustion, and moments of regret for having carried so much alone. It was during this time that Rachael admitted she could no longer keep pretending everything was fine.

“She couldn’t hide anymore,” Georgia explained, describing a moment when the weight became too much to bear.

The family chose to keep these details private in the immediate aftermath of Rachael’s death, prioritizing grief and healing away from public scrutiny. Georgia says the decision to speak now comes from a desire to honor her sister’s truth, not to sensationalize her loss.

Fans worldwide have reacted with heartbreak to Georgia’s words, many expressing shock at the extent of Rachael’s private struggle. Messages of sympathy and remembrance have poured in, reflecting how deeply the actress touched audiences throughout her career.

Georgia emphasized that her sister’s story is not one of weakness, but of endurance. “She was strong for so long,” she said. “Stronger than people ever knew.”

The revelation has also prompted broader reflection on the pressures faced by public figures, particularly those who feel compelled to maintain a composed exterior while managing profound personal challenges.

While Georgia refrained from discussing specific medical or personal details, she stressed the importance of compassion and understanding — reminding others that outward appearances often mask internal battles.

As the family continues to grieve, Georgia hopes sharing her sister’s experience will encourage more open conversations about emotional pain and the importance of support.

“Rachael loved deeply,” she said. “And she felt deeply. That’s who she was.”

For fans, the confession has added a poignant layer to the legacy Rachael leaves behind — not only as a talented actress, but as a person who endured quietly, loved fiercely, and, in the end, chose honesty with those closest to her.

The family asks for privacy as they navigate their loss, but Georgia’s words have already resonated widely, transforming grief into a shared moment of reflection and empathy.

“THE BBC FELL SILENT…” — Chris Rea Fans Left in Tears as a Heartbreaking On-Air Tribute Honours the Driving Home for Christmas Singer After His De-ath at 74

Chris Rea fans have been reduced to tears after the BBC paid tribute to the late singer live on air on Tuesday following his death.

The star, who is behind one of the most iconic Christmas songs, Driving Home For Christmas, died aged 74 on Monday following a short illness.

His legendary track was the opening song to a pre-recorded festive addition of Animal Park with Ben Fogle and Kate Humble on BBC One.

With this in mind, BBC bosses aired a short tribute to mark Chris’ passing before the episode began to play.

Continuity announcer Duncan Newmarch said just before the titles: ‘First on BBC One, Chris Rea, is very much on our minds this morning.’

He later took to X, formerly Twitter, writing: ‘When I discovered that this morning’s edition of Animal Park on started with Driving Home for Christmas, I wanted to say something.’

Chris Rea fans have been reduced to tears after the BBC paid tribute to the late singer live on air on Tuesday following his death

The corporation’s continuity announcer said just before Animal Park where his song was the opening track: ‘First on BBC One, Chris Rea, is very much on our minds this morning’

The star, who is behind one of the most iconic Christmas songs, Driving Home For Christmas, died aged 74 on Monday following a short illness

Viewers were reduced to tears with one commenting: ‘Oh that made me cry. Very touching.’

‘Very suitable and appropriate.’

‘That’s such a clever, beautiful 11 seconds. Bravo.’

‘What a wonderful tribute.’

Announcing his death on Monday, his wife Joan and their daughters Josie and Julia, released a statement which read: ‘It is with immense sadness that we announce the death of our beloved Chris.

‘He passed away peacefully in hospital earlier today following a short illness, surrounded by his family.’

The iconic song Driving Home for Christmas has made a reappearance on the UK Singles Chart every year since 2007, including making number 10 in 2021.

Middlesbrough-born Chris, who met Joan when he was just 16, had been dogged with serious health issues including peritonitis, pancreatic cancer and diabetes. In 2017, it was revealed he needed to inject insulin seven times a day.

Chris’ final social media post featured a car on a snowy motorway with a road sign reading: ‘Driving home for Christmas with a thousand memories.’

In the post, shared on Sunday, he added a caption reading: ‘Top to toe in tailbacks If it’s a white Christmas, let’s hope the journey’s a smooth one.’

Join the debate

What personal memories does “Driving Home for Christmas” evoke for you during the festive season?

Teary fans praised the on air tribute by the BBC

Announcing his death on Monday, his wife Joan and their daughters Josie and Julia, released a statement (pictured in 2016)

Chris’ final social media post featured a car on a snowy motorway with a road sign reading: ‘Driving home for Christmas with a thousand memories’

Chris suffered a major health scare during his career when he was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer at the age of 33.

He had part of his pancreas removed along with his gall bladder and part of his liver, but went on to make a recovery and lived with diabetes as well as kidney problems.

He also suffered a stroke in 2016 but he recovered and went on to release two more albums Road Songs For Lovers in 2017 and One Fine Day in 2019.

Chris previously revealed: ‘I’ve had nine major operations in ten years. A lot of it is to do with something called retroperitoneal fibrosis, where the internal tissues attack each other. No one knew it existed 20 years ago, and it’s completely unpredictable..

‘It’s affected the colon, the pancreas, the gall bladder, the liver – and then I get a stroke.’

Speaking of his successes and impact on his health, he said: ‘I made a lot of money, but you can dangerously let it lead you on…

‘It depends what company you keep. I once said to Michael Winner, “I’m the poorest man on this Barbados beach.” On days like today, the richest man in the world is the one who hasn’t got a bad shoulder.’

Chris previously shed light on writing the iconic tune, as he previously told Bob Mortimer: ‘I was on the dole when I wrote [Driving Home For Christmas]. My manager had just left me. I’d just been banned from driving.

‘My now wife, Joan, had to drive down to London to pick me up in the Mini and take me home, and that’s when I wrote it.’

R0YAL SH0CK  Princess Beatrice and Princess Eugenie chose The Firm over their father this Christmas — after a telling signal from the King about their royal future.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was left firmly out in the cold today, with even his daughters abandoning him at Christmas.

While Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie were surprise guests at the King’s royal revelries at Sandringham, the disgraced former Duke of York was seen leaving Royal Lodge, his Windsor mansion, alone.

He cut a solitary figure, driving himself out of the royal estate, wrapped in a scarf and casual waterproof, in stark contrast to his smartly-dressed daughters and their husbands who joined senior royals on the traditional Christmas morning walk to church.

There was no sign of Andrew’s ex-wife Sarah Ferguson and her spokesman refused to discuss her plans.

King Charles has quietly made clear that while his shamed brother is unwelcome at any family festivities, his nieces – who remain ‘blood princesses’ and have retained their York titles – should not be made to pay for their father’s ‘sins’. A source said: ‘His Majesty is very fond of them.’

It comes as victims of paedophile Jeffrey Epstein called for Andrew to be prosecuted amid continuing public uproar over their friendship.

Marina Lacerda, 37, who was 14 when she was abused by the predatory financier, told the Daily Mail that the former Duke of York would have been arrested by now ‘if he were a regular guy’.

Andrew – who has always denied any wrongdoing – has already been stripped by the King of all his remaining titles and forced to downsize from his 30-room Windsor mansion, but his presence continues to loom over the Royal Family’s public activities.

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Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was left firmly out in the cold today, with even his daughters abandoning him at Christmas. Pictured: Princess Eugenie at Sandringham on Christmas Day

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While Princesses Beatrice (pictured, in attendance, with her husband Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi) and Eugenie were surprise guests at the King’s royal revelries at Sandringham, the disgraced former Duke of York was seen leaving Royal Lodge, his Windsor mansion, alone

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He cut a solitary figure (pictured), driving himself out of the royal estate, wrapped in a scarf and casual waterproof

Earlier this month the Daily Mail revealed he would get to spend one last Christmas in Royal Lodge before his expected departure to the King’s private Sandringham estate early next year.

It can be revealed that while no firm date has been set for him to quit, removal vans have already been taking boxes of belongings away.

In Norfolk today his daughters – who had been predicted by some to skip the festivities this year, such is their embarrassment over the debacle – were pointedly welcomed by the rest of the Royal Family.

Beatrice, 37, accompanied by her husband Edo Mapelli Mozzi, looked pale and slightly haunted, hanging to the rear of the party walking down from the ‘big house’ to St Mary Magdalene Church.

But Eugenie, 35, smiled and beamed at the front of the group, along with her husband, Jack Brooksbank.

More than 500 well-wishers – some camping out in the bitter cold overnight in Santa hats, tinsel necklaces and reindeer antlers – had gathered to catch a glimpse of the family, who were led by a beaming Charles. He was accompanied by Queen Camilla, bringing festive cheer in a striking red coat and hat.

Charles joked with Joan Beale, 67, from Cambridge, that it was ‘like Crufts here’ as he bent down to make a fuss of her dog, Millie.

Asked afterwards if they had anything to say about Andrew, she shook her head and said: ‘The royals have acted in the right way, with some dignity.’ Her friend, Sarah Burgoyne, 57, added: ‘I’m glad that his girls are here.’

Hilary Marsh, 73, voiced her opinion that it was ‘only right’ that Beatrice and Eugenie were there.

Mrs Marsh, from Burwell, Cambridgeshire, said: ‘Beatrice and Eugenie are marvellous girls. They’ve done nothing wrong and it must be quite hard for them with everything that’s going on.’

She said it was ‘marvellous’ to see the King looking well and added she had gifted the Prince and Princess of Wales’ children boxes of chocolates.

‘The children were very polite and courteous,’ she continued. ‘They’re an absolute credit to them.’

James Taylor, 41, from Nottinghamshire, said the removal of Andrew’s titles showed the family were taking matters ‘seriously’.

‘It’s been a source of embarrassment for the family, but this shows how seriously they’re taking it.

‘It has reflected badly on the family. I’m sure it’s the right thing he’s not here to take the focus away from the King and Queen,’ he said.

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Beatrice, 37, accompanied by her husband Edo Mapelli Mozzi, (pictured, the couple together) looked pale and slightly haunted, hanging to the rear of the party

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But Eugenie (centre), 35, smiled and beamed at the front of the group, along with her husband, Jack Brooksbank (left)

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More than 500 well-wishers had gathered to catch a glimpse of the family, who were led by a beaming Charles. He was accompanied by Queen Camilla, bringing festive cheer in a striking red coat and hat. Pictured: The King and Queen leading the Christmas Day party

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The Duke of Edinburgh (pictured) was also present, with his wife Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh

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They brought their children, Lady Louise (right) and James, Earl of Wessex (left), along for the festivities. Pictured: The children with their mother, the Duchess of Edinburgh, centre

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Princess Anne (centre left) was accompanied by her daughter, Zara Tindall (far right), and grandchildren

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The crowds seemed particularly delighted to see the Wales family (pictured, accompanied by Zara Tindall’s daughters Lena, left, and Mia, centre) who were out in force

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The children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and little Prince Louis (pictured, with a chocolate gift from a well-wisher), stole the show as they collected armfuls of gifts and festive chocolate selection boxes

The crowds seemed particularly delighted to see the Wales family who were out in force, with the children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte and little Prince Louis, stealing the show as they collected armfuls of gifts and festive chocolate selection boxes.

Catherine, 43, and her ten-year-old daughter were in complementary shades of brown and caramel, while Louis, seven, and 12-year-old George were smartly dressed like their father.

Gemma Clark, 45, from Long Sutton, and a regular at the event, gave the young princess a bookmark and a ballerina brooch as presents, saying: ‘I asked Charlotte for a hug and she said yes. It was absolutely amazing. I loved it.’

Her father, Paul Clark, 75, handed William a set of origami planes for his sons to make and said: ‘William told me George would be able to name all those planes, they’re historic ones like Spitfires and Hurricanes.’

Louis couldn’t resist giving a twirl of excitement when he was given a huge box of chocolates as a gift, especially for him.

The Princess of Wales dawdled long after the other family members had started walking back, shaking hands and greeting well-wishers for almost 20 minutes and thanking them for turning up despite the cold.

 Concern turned to shock — and then came Junior’s words. Alarming images of Katie Price struggling physically have sparked widespread worry and debate. Amid speculation and whispers about her health, Junior Andre has finally spoken — offering insight that has left fans reeling. Supporters are divided between fear, empathy, and a desperate need for clarity.  Scroll down for the full story

What is going on?: Katie Price is so haggard she needs help walking, yet her son makes a sh0cking statement!

While the public remains transfixed by the alarming headlines surrounding Katie Price’s physical transformation, a much different narrative is unfolding behind closed doors. The silent protector of this story? Her 20-year-old son, Junior Andre.

1. The Paparazzi’s Optical Illusion

In recent weeks, the media has painted a grim portrait of the 47-year-old former glamour model. At a high-profile store launch in Hertfordshire, lenses captured a version of Katie that sparked immediate “red flags.” Dressed in brown lace, she appeared fragile, requiring physical assistance from friends just to navigate a staircase.

These sightings didn’t happen in a vacuum. Katie herself had previously sparked concern on Snapchat, documenting a battle with “unexplained” weight loss that left her undergoing painful blood tests. Coupled with her sudden crusade to quit vaping—driven by a haunting X-ray of damaged lungs and her own mother’s terminal respiratory illness—the public consensus was one of impending crisis.

2. Defying the Narrative: Junior’s Testimony

However, Junior Andre has stepped forward to dismantle the “worrying” label being placed on his mother. Speaking with a level of maturity that defies the tabloid rumors, Junior insists that the world is looking at a filtered version of the truth.

“People can say and think what they like, but they don’t actually know,” Junior told the Mail. He effectively dismissed the external noise, claiming his family is currently in the “best place” they have ever been. To him, the woman the public sees as “thin and struggling” is simply his loving mother, whom he visits constantly. His message was clear: public concern, while perhaps well-intentioned, is based on a fundamental misunderstanding of their private life.

3. A Fortress of Festive Tradition

As the holiday season approaches, the Andre-Price clan is focusing on connection rather than controversy. Junior’s Christmas itinerary is a masterclass in modern co-parenting: spending Christmas Eve with his father, Peter Andre, before heading to Katie’s for the big day.

For Junior, shopping for a woman who “has everything” is a challenge he meets with emotional intelligence. Along with his siblings—Harvey, Princess, Jett, and Bunny—he focuses on sentiment over price tags. While the internet debates her health, the family is busy preparing their traditional backdrop of matching pajamas, roaring fireplaces, and non-stop festive music.

The Bottom Line: The world may see a woman losing weight, but Junior Andre sees a family gaining strength. Through his eyes, the “worrying” headlines are replaced by the warmth of a son who knows his mother better than any camera ever could.

“From Jungle To Christmas Shopping: Shona Addresses Romance Rumours As Aitch Steps Out In Full Festive Mode”

I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! favourite Aitch was firmly in festive mode this week as he was spotted stocking up on booze in Manchester ahead of Christmas.

The 25-year-old rapper, whose real name is Harrison James Armstrong, pulled on a bright red Santa hat while popping into a local shop to buy three bottles of Southern Comfort whiskey.

Cutting a laid-back figure in a grey tracksuit and Nike trainers, Aitch also grabbed a Christmas wreath, hinting that he is planning a cosy – and possibly boozy – festive celebration.

I’m A Celeb star Aitch, 25, was well and truly getting into the Christmas spirit while stocking up on booze in Manchester on Tuesday

Despite being one of the breakout stars of this year’s jungle series, the fourth-placed finalist appeared to go largely unnoticed by passers-by as he loaded his shopping into the boot of his £70,000 Porsche.

Aitch narrowly missed out on the crown earlier this month, finishing behind his close friend AngryGinge, who went on to be named King of the Jungle.

The festive shopping trip comes just days after his I’m A Celeb co-star Shona McGarty finally addressed speculation about a possible romance between the pair, following their sweet on-screen bond.

The rapper, real name Harrison James Armstrong, donned a Santa’s hat as he called into a local shop for three bottles of Southern Comfort whiskey

Speaking on the Hits Radio Breakfast Show, the EastEnders actress, 34, laughed off the rumours and insisted the pair are just close friends.

She said: ‘I came out and apparently me and Aitch were in a relationship… He’s great, still my little brother!’

Shona added: ‘He’s so fun to be around, he’s just hyper, and he matched my level of hyper. He hasn’t been round for karaoke yet, but it’s on the cards.’

She had previously opened up about how protective she felt towards the rapper after his shock exit from the jungle, which saw her go on to finish third in the final behind Tom Read Wilson and AngryGinge.

During her exit interview with Ant and Dec, Shona admitted she had been immediately drawn to Aitch.

Explaining why they bonded so quickly, she said: ‘When he came into the jungle, this rapper, he was all giving it this and that, but underneath it all I could tell he was quite scared of the whole experience. He’s very normal, down to earth, and we had a similar upbringing – I felt like an older sister to him. I wanted to protect him.’

His semi-final departure clearly hit her hard, with Shona left visibly shaken after he was voted out.

Speaking in the Bush Telegraph during the final, she said emotionally: ‘I had to say goodbye to Aitch today… just one more day until I see him again.’

Last week his I’m A Celeb co-star Shona McGarty, 34, opened up about romance rumours surrounding the pair, after sharing several sweet moments in the jungle (pictured on the show)

The comment sparked immediate reaction from fans, with viewers flooding social media to speculate about a possible romance.

One wrote on X: ‘Shona was devastated!’
Another added: ‘The way Aitch & Shona hugged… they are SO SWEET!!’
A third posted: ‘THE AITCH AND SHONA POTENTIAL ROMANCE?! I must know cos they’d be cute af!’

And now, with Aitch back home donning a Santa hat and filling his Porsche with whiskey, fans are left wondering what festive surprises – on or off screen – could be coming next.

 “WHY WAS THIS EVEN ALLOWED?”  Aпger is growiпg ɑfter the Christmɑs Dɑy swim weпt ɑheɑd off Budleigh Sɑltertoп, despite rough seɑs ɑпd high wiпds — while other eveпts were cɑпcelled.

Devastated locals have questioned why an annual Christmas Day swim in Devon was ‘allowed’ to go ahead in stormy conditions as two men remain missing after being swept out to sea.

A poignant photograph captured the moment a traditional dip turned to disaster as high winds of up to 65mph created huge swells and dragged several swimmers under the water at Budleigh Salterton yesterday morning. Many had to be pulled to safety back onto shore.

Despite a widespread search and rescue effort, two wild swimmers – one in his 40s and the other in his 60s – have still not been found after entering the water off the coast of Devon just before 10.25am on Thursday.

Exmouth and Beer Coastguard rescue teams, RNLI lifeboats and a search and rescue helicopter were deployed – and have issued an urgent warning to swimmers to stay away from similar swims today.

Anger is now growing at the decision to allow the event to go ahead yesterday despite the stormy conditions – though it is understood the gathering is more of a tradition rather than a formally organised event.

The RNLI attend in many cases, but the risk to participate is placed on individuals taking part.

Residents living in communities near to the tragedy have expressed their concern for the families of the missing men – but have also questioned why public officials could not shut the event down if conditions were deemed too dangerous to swim. Others highlighted the risks placed on emergency services sent out to help in the search.

As one warned: ‘The sea isn’t Center Parcs. It’s more powerful than any of us and as generations of sailors in this town will attest, it’s a cruel mistress’.

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Moments after this photograph was taken on Christmas Day swimmers ran into difficulty and two men disappeared into the waves at Budleigh Salterton in Devon

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Exmouth and Beer Coastguard rescue teams, RNLI lifeboats and a search and rescue helicopter were deployed to search for the men, who remain missing

The resident, who wished to remain anonymous, added on their social media post that had the event been under the control of a public authority, costs for security , event management and public safety personnel could have topped £10,000.

But while yesterday’s event was free, it was also considered ‘unofficial’.

The resident wrote: ‘The Boxing Day Swim has no such controls – it’s open to all-comers, any age, any ability, drunk or sober, undiagnosed health conditions or not. We can’t tell – people just turn up and run into the water.

‘They don’t give their names and certainly don’t sign a waiver. It’s never been ‘organised’ and yet, people ‘think’ it’s organised: there are no controls; there are no authorities in attendance to take over should something bad happen; and of course, there is no a** to kick if something goes wrong.

‘There are no formal first aiders, there’s no lifeguard or lifeboat cover. If someone gets cold water shock, or cramps, or just falls and hits their head, there’s nothing in place.’

A second expressed on social media: ‘Why was this even allowed?’

Another said: ‘[It] should never have gone ahead. No respect for the emergency services or for their own safety.’

One familiar with the coastline said: ‘The sea at Budleigh today was treacherous with huge waves and dangerous currents. Nobody should have been swimming there.’

In an update this morning, HM Coastguard told Daily Mail the two men remain missing.

A spokesperson said: ‘HM Coastguard responded to reports of people in difficulty in water in the Budleigh Salterton area yesterday, 25 December.

‘Alerted at around 10am, Exmouth and Beer Coastguard Rescue Teams, RNLI lifeboats from Exmouth, Teignmouth and Torbay and coastguard search and rescue helicopters and fixed wing aircraft were sent to the scene to assist, alongside police and ambulance service.

‘Searches continued throughout the day to find two men believed to still be in the water.

‘After extensive shoreline and offshore searches, the coastguard part of the search was stood down at 5pm.’

Devon and Cornwall Police has meanwhile reminded people wanting to go for a Boxing Day swim to stay away from the water.

Detective Superintendent Hayley Costar said in a statement yesterday: ‘There have been weather warnings in place this week and a number of official and un-official swims have already been cancelled.

‘While there are no official warnings in place for tomorrow, we urge anyone with plans to go swimming in the sea on Boxing Day not to.’

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Emergency services were called at 10.25am on Christmas Day to the beach at Budleigh Salterton following concern for swimmers in the water

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Emergency services arrived at Budleigh Salterton beach in Devon on Christmas Day, but the coastguard search was called off after 5pm

Teignmouth RNLI issued a statement confirming the Boxing Day Walk In The Sea had been cancelled.

‘We kindly ask that people don’t take part independently,’ it reminded locals on social media.

As events unfolded yesterday, swimmers were asked not to take part in the nearby Exmouth’s Christmas Day swim while the incident was dealt with.

‘We ask that people do not enter the water for public safety reasons. Due to the current weather warnings, we ask that this is the case today and for any Boxing Day swims,’ a police spokesman said.

Police said one of the missing men’s next of kin had been spoken to but enquiries to reach the family of the second man were ongoing. They added that a local friend had been informed.

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Devon and Cornwall Police has meanwhile reminded people wanting to go for a Boxing Day swim to stay away from the water. Pictured: Crowds watch on in the moments before the traditional swim turned to disaster

Several Christmas and Boxing Day swims in Devon and Cornwall were cancelled on Wednesday after a yellow weather warning was issued.

The Met Office warned of ‘strong and gusty east to north-easterly winds’ on Christmas Day in parts of the south-west of England and Wales. It said peak gusts could reach 55 to 65mph along exposed coasts, warning: ‘Large waves will be an additional hazard on some coasts.’

Despite the poor weather, hundreds of revellers entered the sea in east Devon. The alarm was raised soon afterwards, and a major rescue effort was launched.

The search for the two men was called off for the day at 5pm.

BBC journalist Phillip Stoneman, who has been a visitor to Budleigh for the swim for the past few years, said: ‘As soon as we arrived, you could tell that the sea was the roughest it’s been and that anyone going in would need to be a lot more cautious than usual.

‘The waves swept some people exiting the sea off their feet and other swimmers were helping them out.’

He said the RNLI boat was out in the water at the time and hundreds of people were either on the beach or in the water.

Melissa Hill, who was visiting the town for Christmas, said: ‘The coastguards have cordoned off part of the path where the swimmers set off from. They are overlooking the area where this happened. It is such an awful thing to have happened. There is no good time to die, but Christmas Day is so terrible.

‘The conditions are dreadful. The sea is cold, the wind is strong, and the waves are crashing in. I can’t believe anyone went into the water when it was like this.’

A local pensioner, who did not want to be named, said as many as four people were initially believed to be missing.

‘We went to the scene and we were told four people were missing. I don’t know if that figure is still correct.

‘But the conditions have been treacherous all day. There is nothing to protect swimmers from the elements here today.’

A coastguard worker at the scene said: ‘This was a major response. We have had multi helicopters, lifeboats and coastguards on scene.’

It came as wild swimmers were warned after shipping containers of bananas fell overboard from a cargo ship off the Isle of Wight.

The Maritime and Coastguard Agency said 16 containers had fallen into the sea from the Baltic Klipper off Bembridge on December 6.

Some containers had washed up at Selsey, West Sussex, it added. Now Arun District Council has warned that metal fragments may be in the water. The council posted on Facebook: ‘If you are planning a festive swim this year, please take extra care along our beaches.

‘Following the recent shipping container incident, there may still be metal fragments in the sea along our coastline. Please stay safe and if you see anyone in difficulty in the water, please call 999 and ask for the Coastguard.’

THE MACHINE DIDN’T BEEP. BUT HER HEART SCREAMED.  Heidi—the German girl claiming to be Madeleine McCann—just took a lie detector test. She was asked if she is faking it. The result? Truth. But when they asked her the real name, the monitors went wild. It wasn’t a lie. It was a reaction of pure terror. Her body remembers something that her mind is trying to say. The experts are calling the result “Truthful Distress.”  SEE THE CHILLING RESULT WHEN SHE SPOKE THE NAME “MADDIE” IN THE COMMENTS

EXCLUSIVE: SHE PASSED. HEIDI TOOK A LIE DETECTOR TEST AND THE RESULTS ARE “DECEPTIVELY TRUTHFUL.”

(Please read to the end of this article for the chilling five words she whispered when the machine was turned off).

BY CRIME DESK INVESTIGATORS MUNICH — For weeks, the world has demanded one thing from Heidi, the 21-year-old German woman claiming to be Madeleine McCann: scientific proof. While DNA tests are pending, Heidi agreed to a different kind of trial. Yesterday, in a secure, undisclosed location in Bavaria, she sat down for a high-stakes polygraph examination. The test was administered by a former Interpol interrogator. The goal was simple: prove she is a liar, or prove she believes the impossible. The results, obtained exclusively by The Crime Desk, have left experts baffled and skeptics silent. She didn’t just pass. She broke the baseline.

THE BASELINE Heidi sat in the chair, wired to the sensors monitoring her respiration, pulse, and skin conductivity. She appeared calm. Almost trance-like. The examiner began with control questions. “Is your name Heidi?” “Are we in Germany?” The needles barely moved. Her physiological responses were flat. Then, the interrogation shifted to the allegations that have set the internet on fire.

THE FIRST HURDLE The examiner asked the question the whole world wants to know: “Are you performing a hoax for fame?” Heidi looked directly at the wall. “No,” she answered. The stylus on the chart remained steady. No spike in blood pressure. No change in breathing. According to the machine, she was telling the absolute truth. She is not acting. In her mind, this is her reality.

THE SEISMIC SPIKE But the atmosphere in the room changed instantly with the next question. The examiner leaned forward and asked: “Is your birth name Madeleine McCann?” For three seconds, there was silence. Then, the monitors went wild. Heidi’s heart rate skyrocketed from 70 beats per minute to 145. Her breathing became shallow and rapid. It was a reaction of pure, unadulterated terror. And then, she forced the word out: “Yes.”

THE IMPOSSIBLE RESULT Here is the twist that has psychologists arguing today. Despite the physical panic, the polygraph’s “deception algorithm” did not flag the answer as a lie. It flagged it as “Truthful Distress.” “This is a phenomenon we rarely see,” explains Dr. Elias Thorne, a forensic psychologist. “If she were lying, we would see ‘cognitive load’—the brain working hard to invent a story.” “But we didn’t see that. We saw trauma.”

THE BODY REMEMBERS The results suggest that the name Madeleine McCann is not a lie to her. It is a trigger. Her body reacted to the name not as a fraudster getting caught, but as a victim hearing a sound from a nightmare. “The machine says she believes she is Madeleine,” the examiner reportedly concluded. “And the heart rate spike suggests that being Madeleine was a terrifying experience.”

THE SKEPTICS’ VIEW Critics argue that Heidi could be suffering from a delusional disorder, where she genuinely believes a lie. In that case, a polygraph would be useless. But the specific timing of the heart rate spike is hard to explain away. Why did her heart nearly explode only at that specific name, if not for a deep-seated psychological anchor?

THE WHISPER IN THE DARK But the most disturbing moment came after the test was officially over. The examiner unhooked the sensors from Heidi’s fingers and chest. The room was quiet. Heidi was shaking, her face pale. She looked at the examiner, tears streaming down her face, and whispered a sentence that was not recorded on the official chart, but was noted by the witness in the room. It explains why the name terrifies her. “They told me to forget it,” she whispered. “Or the man would come back.” Disclaimer: The events, the polygraph test results, the specific physiological reactions, and the quotes described in this article are based on unverified reports, fictionalized scenarios, and current speculation regarding the “Heidi” case. The information presented requires further official investigation to confirm its authenticity and may be entirely fabricated.

CONGRATULATIONS BBC Strictly Couple Aljaž & Janette Share Major Life Update — Fans All Say the Same Thing

Janette Manrara and her husband Aljaz Skorjanec have announced some exciting news(Image: Suzan Moore/PA Wire)

Strictly Come Dancing’s Aljaž Škorjanec and Janette Manrara have shared an exciting joint announcement. The couple both worked as professional dancers on the popular BBC programme. In 2021, Janette moved away from her role and it was announced she was becoming the new presenter of Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two, taking over from Zoe Ball.

Meanwhile, Aljaž is currently partnered with La Voix on this year’s series. The RuPaul’s Drag Race star wowed fans last weekend with a spectacular performance of a paso doble to Beethoven’s The 5th.

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Away from the ballroom, Aljaž and Janette often share family updates and offer glimpses of what their life is like outside of Strictly Come Dancing.

The two met in 2010 at a studio in London and worked on the dance show ‘Burn the Floor’ together. The dancers tied the knot in 2017 after seven years together.

Janette and Aljaž have one child together, daughter Lyra. The presenter welcomed daughter Lyra in July 2023.

Earlier this year, the couple set off on their UK tour with their show “A Night to Remember”. The performances featured a variety of dance styles, accompanied by a live big band.

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They have now announced they are “back” for more, confirming a new tour for next year. A post on Instagram said: “They’re back! Aljaž and Janette are back with a brand new tour for Spring 2026 ‘Let’s Face The Music And Dance!’

“A dazzling tribute to the legendary songwriters, composers and producers whose music has sound tracked our lives, performed live with the incredible Tom Seals & his Big Band, and a supporting cast of the UK’s very best dancers!

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“Expect show stopping routines, timeless tunes, and all the sparkle you’ve been waiting for. Tickets on sale Friday 7th November.”

The tour has 16 dates, including Manchester, Blackpool and York. Fans are excited for the couple to return to the stage, with one user commenting they are “over the moon”.

On Instagram, one fan said: “How exciting” while another said: “Yesss can’t wait.” A third added: “Over the moon yes they are back” and a fourth said: “Amazing”.

Vicky Pattison also commented: “I WANT TO COME.” The reality  TV star is taking part in this year’s competition with professional dancer Kai Widdrington.

Gorka Marquez also added to the comments, sharing round of applause emojis. The Strictly pro is not partnered with a  celebrity this year due to other work commitments. Gorka is a judge on the second series of “Bailando con las estrellas” which is the Spanish version of Strictly Come Dancing.

 Ƭ𝗘𝗥𝗥ɪвʟ𝗘 XMAS DAY  Police hɑve issued ɑ grim updɑte ɑfter two men went missing ɑt seɑ during the Christmɑs Dɑy dip off Budleigh Sɑlterton ɑlong the Jurɑssic Coɑst.

XMAS DAY HORROR

Urgent search for two men ‘missing in sea’ after multiple people pulled from water in Christmas Day swim

Hundreds of swimmers had gathered for the festive dip

TWO men have been reported as missing in sea after the emergency services were called to a Christmas Day swim this morning.

A number of swimmers were pulled from the water during a dip in Budleigh Salterton, Devon, following an “incident” this morning said the police.

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Cops have urged locals to avoid the beach as swimmers are recovered from the seaCredit: UKNIP
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Coastguard helicopter crews were also at the scene this morningCredit: UKNIP
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RNLI rescue teams could be seen battling huge waves as they scoured the waterCredit: UKNIP
Hundreds of swimmers had gathered along the Jurassic Coast seafront for the traditional Christmas Day dip.

But emergency crews were scrambled to the beach at around 10.25am following “concerns” for swimmers.

And RNLI rescue teams could be seen battling huge waves as they helped scoured the water.

Devon and Cornwall Police confirmed a “number of people” had been safely rescued by crews.

They were then check over by medical teams and paramedics at the scene.

The force said: “Emergency services were called at 10.25am to the beach at Budleigh Salterton following concern for people in the water.

“A number of people have been safely recovered to shore and will be checked by paramedics.

“Coastguard and RNLI crews are continuing search efforts in the water.

“There is a significant amount of emergency service personnel working on this incident.

“We ask that people do not enter the water along this stretch of coast while this incident is ongoing for public safety reasons.”

The UK Coastguard confirmed search teams were helping to scour the beach area.

It said: “HM Coastguard said it was alerted at around 10am.

“Exmouth and Beer Coastguard Rescue Teams, RNLI lifeboats from Exmouth and Torbay and coastguard search and rescue helicopters have been sent to the scene to assist, alongside police and ambulance service.”

Devon is one of the regions under the umbrella of the Met Office’s yellow weather warning.

The south west region is being battered by 65mph winds, with a cold health alert also in place.

Issuing a yellow warning for wind, between 4am and midnight, the Met Office said gusts would peak at 65mph in some parts of the country.

The forecaster has also warned there could be disruption to transport and power supplies in some areas.

The warning is in place for the western coast of the UK, with the south-west of England and the majority of Wales affected.

It states: “Strong and gusty east to northeasterly winds.”

A number of Christmas and Boxing Day swims in Devon and Cornwall were cancelled due to the weather warning.

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The UK Coastguard confirmed search teams were helping to searchCredit: UKNIP
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Emergency crews were scrambled to the beach at around 10.25amCredit: UKNIP