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  • EastEnders legend Joe Swash returns to host special ahead of ‘explosive’ 40th anniversary

    EastEnders legend Joe Swash returns to host special ahead of ‘explosive’ 40th anniversary

    EastEnders have announced a return of yet another soap legend for the ‘explosive anniversary’ as he’s back to host a special programme to celebrate the big week

    An EastEnders fan favourite will be making his return to the Square ahead of the highly anticipated 40th anniversary.

    Joe Swash, who returned briefly last year to reprise his role as Mickey Miller will be gracing EastEnders fans’ screens once again as he hosts a special programme looking at the explosive storylines that are set to take place during the anniversary week.

    The special programme EastEnders Revealed: The Lock In will give fans extra behind the scenes insights on all the huge storylines. These include the long awaited reveal of Cindy Beale’s attacker, as well as Denise, Jack and Ravi’s interactive love triangle, which will give fans the opportunity to vote for the outcome for the first time ever.

    Joe will also get inside info on the live episodes, with actors directly involved including Patsy Palmer, who plays Bianca, and Natalie Cassidy, who announced her exit as Sonia after over three decades earlier this week.

    Just like fans do everyday, the actors will be sharing their own possible theories on the outcome of their dramatic storylines, as well as celebrating 40 years of the soap.

    “It was a privilege to take another trip back to Walford to reunite with my EastEnders family ahead of the 40th anniversary,” Joe Swash said on his involvement. Not giving too much away though, he continued: “I won’t say too much as I don’t want to spoil it for the viewers, but the week is full of explosive drama, and it was great to hear from the cast themselves about what we can expect from the week.”

    Joe Swash
    Joe returned to the soap to make a cameo last month 
    Image:
    BBC)
    Executive producer Chris Clenshaw added: “The 40th anniversary is a monumental occasion for EastEnders, and since we started announcing some of our plans, we have seen an overwhelming amount of speculation around possible theories of what’s to come in the anniversary week. This anniversary special show will give the audience a chance to hear from the actors involved in some of those explosive storylines as they share their thoughts and feelings of being involved in its historic milestone.”

    Joe Swash made his first appearance in the BBC soap in April 2003 before leaving in 2008. However, he never turned his back completely on the soap, returning for guest appearances in September 2011, and most recently in December 2024. The star made a shock cameo ahead of the 40th anniversary to help save the Bridge Street Market from closure.

    Speaking on his return at the time after almost 16 years away, the star said: “It was amazing to go back. I was super honoured to be asked back; it was so nice to see all the new crew and the crew that was there back in the day when I first started. It felt like home.”

  • The Last Leg star Adam Hills apologises multiple times for Brian Cox’s furious Donald Trump rant

    The Last Leg star Adam Hills apologises multiple times for Brian Cox’s furious Donald Trump rant

    Fans tuning in to The Last Leg on Channel 4 on Friday night were stunned when Succession actor Brian Cox did not censor his thoughts – or language – about President Donald Trump

    The Last Leg host Adam Hills was forced to issue an apology when Succession star Brian Cox lashed out about Donald Trump in a sweary tirade.

    78-year-old Brian was a guest on the late-night Channel 4 talk show and unleashed about the current US president. It was down to 54-year-old Australian comedian Adam to clear the air after Brian blurted out the c-bomb three times.

    Brian has his main home of residence in New York – while his other bolthole is in the UK capital, London. As a result, the foul mouthed actor is governed by 78-year-old Trump – who returned to power in the USA last month after storming to victory in the 2024 Presidential election.

    While a guest on The Last Leg this week, Brian made it very clear that he is not happy to see Trump back in power. Adam asked: “I might be scared of where this is going to go but, what are your thoughts on Donald Trump so far, Brian?”

    Adam Hills on The Last Leg
    Adam Hills had to apologise three times after Brian dropped the c-bomb 
    Image:
    Channel 4)

    Wasting no time in making his unhappiness clear, Brian fired back: “He’s a ****. Adam hastily said: “I apologise…” – while co-host, Alex Brooker, 40, laughed: “I knew that apology was coming!”

    American comedian Michelle Wolf, 39, then said: “They told me that was the one word I wasn’t allowed to say and I’m so glad you said it.” Brian then commented: “Well they never told me what to say. I would have been happy not to say it but if somebody doesn’t call him a ****.”

    Adam was forced to issue a second apology, and told viewers: “I have to deeply apologise again. Let’s just assume I’m apologising for all of these.” He then asked Brian: “Are you not worried about being accosted by Trump fans?”

    The Braveheart actor replied: “Me? I’m not going back to America, for that very reason. No, I mean, they’re all idiots anyway.”

    The actor later discussed the film The Apprentice which stars fellow Succession actor Jeremy Strong – who is nominated for a best supporting actor Oscar. Brian growled: “Of course I didn’t see The Apprentice because I wouldn’t watch anything about that **** I mentioned earlier” – leading Adam to issue yet another apology.

    Stars of The Apprentice were left in shock when Trump hit out at the film when it was released last year. Jeremy claimed that screenwriter Gabriel Sherman had come under attack when the now President accused him of doing a “hatchet job” with the writing of the script.

    Actor Sebastian Stan, who plays a young version of Donald in the film, has been nominated for the Best Actor gong. The film focuses on Trump’s relationship with lawyer and mentor Roy Cohn – who is played by Jeremy.

  • Linda Nolan’s sister Anne makes emotional plea ahead of funeral

    Linda Nolan’s sister Anne makes emotional plea ahead of funeral

    Linda Nolan’s family, loved ones and celebrity friends will pay tribute to the beloved star at her funeral in Blackpool today

    Anne Nolan has called on fans and the people of Blackpool to come together as they say their final goodbyes to her sister Linda Nolan today (Saturday, February 1).

    Dublin-born singer Linda sadly passed away in hospital on January 15 at the age of 65, surrounded by her loving family, following a brave twenty-year battle with cancer.

    A memorial service is set to be held for Linda at St Paul’s Church in Blackpool at 10:30am, a venue close to the family’s heart as it’s where Linda was married and also where she bid farewell to her late husband Brian Hudson.

    Appearing on BBC Breakfast through a pre-recorded tribute on Saturday, Anne shared fond memories of her late sister and her impressive accomplishments. She also had a special message for those wishing to attend today’s service, saying: “Everyone is welcome.”

    She continued with an emotional appeal: “Please be there if you can, if you can make it. She would have loved to have seen as many people as possible,” reports the Express.

    Anne Nolan on BBC Breakfast
    Anne Nolan wiped away tears in an emotional tribute to her sister Linda 
    Image:
    (Image: BBC))
    The family, including Linda’s famous siblings, have been profoundly touched by the outpouring of support and affection following news of Linda’s passing. An overwhelmed Anne remarked on the kindness they had received: “It’s been amazing everyone’s been phoning and sending cards and that’s how it’s been. Everybody’s been amazing.”

    The Nolans’ gratitude extended to a heartfelt mention of Blackpool Tower being illuminated in pink in Linda’s memory, with Anne noting: “We’re so grateful. I mean they lit up the tower [Blackpool Tower] when she passed away, the tower was lit up in pink. I think she would have been thrilled if she knew what was happening.”

    Anne also opened up about the emotional choice of location for Linda’s funeral, noting its deep personal resonance being the same church where Linda and her late husband Brian had their wedding in 1981.

    Amidst the same heartfelt tribute interview, Anne tearfully reflected: “Yes they were married in that church and then when Brian passed away, Linda had his funeral there as well,” the songstress was visibly moved by the memory as she wiped away tears.

    Linda Nolan
    Linda sadly passed away in January aged 65 
    Image:
    (Image: Getty))
    Linda first met Brian in 1979, and just two years later, they exchanged vows. Serving as the Nolans’ tour manager until 1983, Brian continued to support Linda even after she left the group, taking on the role of her manager and supporting her solo career.

    The couple enjoyed a blissful marriage lasting 26 years, until tragedy struck with Brian’s death on 21 September 2007. He sadly passed away at the age of 60 to liver failure and skin cancer.

    Anne recalls, the pair were virtually inseparable to the very end. Before Brian’s death, Linda faced her own daunting health battle, having been diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005. She bravely underwent a mastectomy in 2006 as part of her treatment.

    Reflecting on those difficult times in a past interview with the Mirror, Linda candidly shared how Brian had been her rock during her cancer fight.

    She emotionally recalled: “I always think if he was here, he’d sort it. When I had cancer in 2006, I’d wake up in the night feeling rubbish and he’d rub my back, giving me what I needed. I miss him every day. I had depression when I lost him and I still suffer now, but it’s under control.”

  • This Morning’s Alison Hammond sprints off set to be with son as she’s replaced live on air

    This Morning’s Alison Hammond sprints off set to be with son as she’s replaced live on air

    This Morning host Alison Hammond was forced to sprint off the set live on air as she left co-star Dermot O’Leary alone so she could be with her son Aiden

    Alison Hammond dashed off the set of This Morning as she was replaced live on air.

    The TV presenter was hosting the ITV daytime show alongside co-star Dermot O’Leary, when she had to leave the studio. She had been alongside Dermot all morning until one segment when they cut to the competition. Dermot read out what viewers could win if they entered the show’s competition, yet when he was finished he was sat alone.

    Alison is always by his side on the show, yet Dermot turned to the iconic blue sofa to show nobody else was there. He said: “Time to find out what the Loose Women are talking about.” As he turned to look for Alison, Dermot raised his hands in the air and quipped: “Where has she gone?”

    Loose Women appeared on the screen as Kaye Adams had a huge smile on her face. She told him: “Don’t worry Dermot, she is safe and sound.” Alison had rocked up at the Loose Women sat and sat on their panel. She cheekily waved at Dermot with a grin, as he kicked his feet up.

    “I am here bab, I am here,” Alison told Dermot. Kaye added: “She sprinted round here. You sprinted and Alison, you have got someone very special. Would you like to introduce us?” Alison was sat next to her son as she explained: “This is lovely Aiden and he is here to promote our new show, which is unbelievable.

    Alison Hammond
    Alison ran over to Loose Women as she left Dermot alone 
    Image:
    ITV)
    “It is on every day this week. It’s called Alison Hammond’s Florida Unpacked. And he is the star.” Kaye interjected: “Are you going to reveal the fact you are his mum?” Alison replied: “Oh yeah, I forgot about that part. I also gave birth to this one.” Due to Alison’s dash over to Loose Women, Dermot carried on with guest presenter Trinny Woodall instead.

    Alison is busier than ever before, despite admitted she wanted to take a year off. She is also launching a brand new podcast next month and revealed she is “absolutely buzzing” to be a part of it. The podcast titled Smart TV with Alison Hammond is a spin-off from Rob Beckett’s Smart TV series and will see he chat with a host of famous faces. She will host the show alongside comedian and radio host Matt Crosby as they chat with celebrities about what would be their perfect night in.

    Among the guests appearing will be Prue Leith, Clare Balding, Olivia Attwood, Kathy Burke and Dermot O’Leary. Sharing her delight, Alison said: “I am absolutely buzzing to share my brand-new podcast, Smart TV! I’m teaming up with the brilliant Matt Crosby to chat all things telly—drama, reality, and everything in between! And we’re kicking off in style with the legendary Richard E. Grant as our first guest. Expect laughs, gossip, and top-tier telly chat—it’s going to be amazing babs!”

    It comes as Alison, who also hosts Channel 4 hit competition, The Great British Bake Off, has hinted at taking a year-long break from her TV duties. In a recent chat with Heat magazine, she said: “In the next ten years, I want to travel the world, I would love to take a year off and just go and travel. Not just yet, but one day. I need to see the world before I die!”

  • Stacey Solomon finally able to tell fans huge news with Joe Swash and admits she’s ‘so nervous’

    Stacey Solomon finally able to tell fans huge news with Joe Swash and admits she’s ‘so nervous’

    Stacey Solomon has shared another statement after revealing earlier this month that she and husband Joe Swash have allowed cameras into their home for the first time

    TV favourite Stacey Solomon has confessed to feeling “so nervous” as she reminded her die-hard fans about the bombshell reveal that she and hubby Joe Swash have given viewers an all-access pass to their lives.

    The beloved Loose Women panelist shared earlier in the month that for the first time ever, the couple had thrown open the doors to their household for the cameras, allowing a behind-the-scenes look at their day-to-day for a brand new BBC One documentary series.

    Although snippets of their daily routines are often seen online, this series will invite a film crew into their space to showcase how they juggle family duties with work and passion projects, including constructing a two-acre fishing lake on their property. Dropping a sneak peek for their fans, a teaser showed the bubbly couple at their £1.2 million Essex abode, featuring their brood of five kids, lovable dogs Teddy and Peanut, and their flock of ducks roaming free.

    Stacey Solomon and Joe Swash hugging and smiling
    Stacey Solomon and Joe Swash want to give you a glimpse into their lives 
    Image:
    Joe Swash Instagram)
    Accompanied by a heartwarming polaroid snapshot of the family, Stacey captioned the post, which reached her whopping six million followers, saying: “A new year. A very new adventure. Coming Spring 2025. We’ve been so nervous and excited to share this. Here is us. All of us. In 2024 we opened up our home and made a series about our lives, family, work and everything in between.”

    Stacey Solomon has taken a bold step with her family, embracing the spirit of adventure by agreeing to more opportunities and diving into new experiences. She revealed their decision to embark on a documentary project, something they’ve considered for a while and that fans have been eager to see.

    Stacey Solomon and Joe Swash fishing
    Stacey Solomon and Joe Swash have big news 
    Image:
    Stacey Solomon/Instagram)
    Stacey shared: “It was a huge leap into the unknown and it’s been an absolute whirlwind making it. But last year as a family we decided to say yes to more and do things we’d never done. We have spoken about making a documentary for a long time, lots of you have asked too. So here we go. A journey with us every second of the way. Through the laughter the tears and the craziness… We hope it makes you smile, feel good and hopefully enjoy getting to know us all a little more.”, reports the Manchester Evening News.

    Stacey Solomon says 'coming soon' in 'nevous' family announcement with Joe Swash
    Stacey Solomon and Joe Swash’s new show is coming soon 
    Image:
    Stacey Solomon Instagram)

    Now, in a heartfelt update to her personal newsletter subscribers, she announced the upcoming ‘Stacey and Joe’ show on the BBC. Stacey expressed her excitement and nerves about the show, which will offer an intimate look at their life at Pickle Cottage, beyond what she shares on Instagram and is coming to the Beeb later this year.

    Stacey wrote: “Now I can FINALLY tell you that we’d been busy filming for ‘Stacey and Joe’ coming to the BBC later this year. It’s been such a big part of our lives… I love sharing what we do on Instagram, but this is capturing the laughs, tears and the craziness at Pickle Cottage in such a different way. On the actual TV.”

    She thanked her fans for their support, saying: “It still feels surreal and I’m so nervous about it, but all your lovely comments have made such a difference. I’ll share more about the show when I can [heart emoji]. There’s honestly not a day that goes by that I’m not grateful for every single one of you… You’re just the best mates I could ever ask for. Thank you xxx.”

  • Prue Leith’s Bake Off replacement and new celebrity line-up announced – with huge names

    Prue Leith’s Bake Off replacement and new celebrity line-up announced – with huge names

    The Great Celebrity Bake Off for Stand Up To Cancer will return to Channel 4 this spring, and the full line-up of celebrities taking part has now been announced

    Channel 4 has confirmed the full line-up for this year’s celebrity edition of The Great British Bake Off. The popular show is set to return to our screens in Spring, although an official release date is yet to be announced.

    The Great Celebrity Bake Off for Stand Up To Cancer will see a range of famous faces battling it out to win the title of Star Baker. Each episode will feature four celebrities showcasing their baking skills in the Signature, Technical and Showstopper rounds.

    The contestants’ creations are typically judged by Prue Leith and Paul Hollywood, however, Prue will not be appearing on this year’s special. Stepping into her shoes is Caroline Waldegrave OBE, a close friend of Prue and former co-owner and managing director of Leiths School of Food and Wine.

    Caroline will join Paul in judging the celebs’ bakes in the tent. Hosts Alison Hammond and Noel Fielding will be back to present the star-studded spin-off show.

    Celebrities taking on the Bake Off challenge this year include podcaster Sarah Beeny, comedian Adam Buxton and Good Morning Britain presenter Kate Garraway, reports Wales Online.

    Chicken Shop Date host and journalist Amelia Dimoldenberg is set to appear, alongside TV presenter siblings and property gurus Scarlette and Stuart Douglas. Model and author Ellie Goldstein, Loose Women’s Gloria Hunniford OBE, and actor Jim Howick are also on the roster.

    Actor and director Gbemisola Ikumelo, TV presenter Roman Kemp, comedian Jamali Maddix, actress Maxine Peake, and actor Tommy Tiernan will be showcasing their baking prowess. Rounding off this year’s line-up are podcasters Chris and Rosie Ramsey, singer Self Esteem (Rebecca Lucy Taylor), actress Meera Syal, comedian Phil Wang, and actress Sophie Willan.

    The Great Celebrity Bake Off for Stand Up To Cancer
    The Great Celebrity Bake Off for Stand Up To Cancer will air later this year on Channel 4 
    Image:
    Channel 4)Prue revealed last year that she would be stepping back from the Channel 4 show, saying: “I absolutely love working on Bake Off and am looking forward to filming the next series and meeting our new bakers.

    “I am only stepping back from the Celebrity series, which is just a question of the filming commitment involved as we make these shows back to back.”

    Earlier this week, Prue stopped by Loose Women to chat about life in her 80s, revealing that “old age stinks”. She added: “It takes me 10 minutes to get myself out of bed in the morning. If I don’t do the exercises I can’t move. There’s all sorts of things that are wrong with old age.

    “You know, you are very conscious that this is nearly the end, though I agree that you then decide that you’re going to make the most of it and have fun. I think what we’re all saying is that we don’t care what people think as much as we did and to be honest I don’t even really care if I’m cancelled.”

  • Alison Hammond tells son Aidan ‘be honest’ as they do first ever joint Loose Women interview

    Alison Hammond tells son Aidan ‘be honest’ as they do first ever joint Loose Women interview

    This Morning star Alison Hammond appeared on ITV’s Loose Women on Friday afternoon with Aidan

    Alison Hammond and her son Aidan sat down together for their first ever joint interview on Friday’s Loose Women, leaving fans touched as they delved into their lives.

    The dynamic duo appeared on the ITV chat show to discuss their new travel show, Alison Hammond: Florida Unpacked, where viewers will be treated to Alison conquering the sunny climes of Florida with Aidan, providing escapism, a dose of sunshine, and top-notch travel advice to make our winter a little brighter.

    However, conversations quickly switched to Alison’s stellar TV career when panellist Judi Love quizzed: “It’s just lovely as a mum to see you with your son. I remember we did an awards show you mentioned that you were sorry about the times you haven’t been there for Aidan, how did that make you feel when you saw your mum do that speech?”

    Back in December, Alison received the Role Model Award at the MBCC in Birmingham. The This Morning star gave a touching speech as she accepted her award – declaring all her hard work had been for Aidan.

    Alison Hammond and her son Aidan did their first ever joint interview on Friday's Loose Women
    Alison Hammond and her son Aidan did their first ever joint interview on Friday’s Loose Women 
    Image:
    ITV)

    She said at the time: “I love you so much son and I’m sorry I haven’t always been there but I’ll be honest with you, the reason I was doing it, was only for you”, reports the Liverpool Echo.

    As they reminisced about this special memory on Loose Women, Aidan responded, saying: “Yeah it was nice, it was a nice feeling as obviously I know everything she does is for me. It was just nice.”

    This prompted a laugh from Alison as she chimed in with: “Be honest… you weren’t bothered that I wasn’t around. You were like: ‘Thank God she’s not here, thank goodness! Oh, she’s coming back again now? Here she is again, oh here we go!’”

    Alison’s new show, Florida Unpacked, will be gracing our screens every weekday starting Monday 27 Jan at 6.30pm on BBC2 and BBC iPlayer.

    The This Morning star gave a touching speech as she accepted her award - declaring all her hard work had been for Aidan
    The This Morning star gave a touching speech as she accepted her award – declaring all her hard work had been for Aidan 
    Image:
    ITV)

    In discussions about bringing her son along for work on the series, Alison revealed: “It was Aidan’s first time filming, so it felt like I had a work experience apprentice with me. It was eye-opening to see how he approached it, and I realised he has the same work ethic as me – early mornings, late nights – he handled it really well! I was quite surprised, to be honest. You know how teenagers can be, but he was great!”

    Talking about her son joining her travels and whether he thought it ‘uncool’, she explained: “Not at all! He absolutely loves it. He’s always asking, ‘Can I come?’ The other day, he was saying how much fun we have together I bring the lols, I am the life and soul, and he realises that. He’s been on plenty of trips with his friends, but he always says he has the best time with me.”

  • ITV Loose Women’s Kaye Adams halts show to share unexpected wardrobe blunder

    ITV Loose Women’s Kaye Adams halts show to share unexpected wardrobe blunder

    Loose Women’s presenter Kaye Adams revealed her jumper was on back-to-front on Friday

    Kaye Adams of Loose Women had a comical moment on the show as she stopped everything to share her wardrobe gaffe.

    On the Friday (January 31) episode of the popular ITV chat show, Kaye sat alongside Frankie Bridge, Judi Love and Nadia Sawalha, ready to dive into the day’s hot topics.

    But it wasn’t the topical chat that stole the spotlight – the panel and audience were left in stitches during a discussion about taking oneself seriously.

    In a humorous twist, Kaye announced: “To anyone who thinks that I take myself too seriously.” She turned around to reveal the hilarious truth: her jumper was on backwards. Admitting to her dressing mishap, she said: “I can’t even get my jumper on the right way”, reports the Liverpool Echo.

    Kaye Adams
    Loose Women’s Kaye Adams briefly stopped the show to reveal her unexpected wardrobe malfunction

    The laughter cascaded through the studio when Frankie quipped: “And if it helps I don’t take you seriously at all.” While Kaye playfully retorted: “I literally button up the back.”

    It comes as an exciting format change is happening next week on the show. Fans are in for a treat with a special Loose Men episode airing on Wednesday, February 5, which will be a one-off event.

    Gracing the Loose Men panel will be Craig Doyle, 54, and Jordan Banjo, 32, along with debutants Danny Jones, 38, and Pete Wicks, 37.

    Together, these gentlemen will tackle significant issues such as mental and physical wellbeing, while sharing personal stories and encouraging open conversations throughout the hour-long program.

    Kaye Adam
    Loose Women star Kaye accidently wore her jumper the wrong way round 
    Image:
    ITV)
    The upcoming episode is set to cover topics like male body image trends, relationship dilemmas, alcohol, and anxiety, with the team providing insights and answers.

    A new teaser for the show has dropped, and it’s got the presenters lined up as Craig enthuses: “For a squad of Loose Men you need a fella who’s quick on his feet, a guy who can sing who’s a jungle king, and a Strictly star with a heart of gold.

    “All led, by a man with a plan. The perfect team for a brand new edition of the award-winning Loose Men.”

    Loose Women airs weekdays from 12.30pm on ITV and ITVX

  • Linda Robson breaks down in tears on Loose Women over Pauline Quirke’s dementia

    Linda Robson breaks down in tears on Loose Women over Pauline Quirke’s dementia

    Loose Women star Linda Robson was left in tears and unable to speak as she appeared on the show to discuss pal Pauline Quirke’s dementia diagnosis

    Linda Robson was left in tears as she spoke about friend Pauline Quirke’s dementia diagnosis for the first time.

    The Loose Women star spoke of her Birds of a Feather co-star while on the show and struggled to contain her emotions. Host Christine Lampard told her: “Clearly, you are there for her and you have got a bit of experience too. You will lean on each other going forward. It is so good thank you have got each other. It is difficult, Linda, I know. Thank you for sharing.”

    The support prompted Linda to break down as she was supported by the panelists. She was unable to say anything in response. “We are sending all our love to Pauline and her family,” Christine added. She then told Linda: “You take a little moment.”

    Linda Robson with fellow actress November 1998 and Pauline Quirke
    Linda discussed her friendship with Pauline 
    Image:
    BBC)
    Linda opened up on her friendship with Pauline, having met when they were 10-years-old. She said: “We were at the same primary school together and we did everything together. We travelled all over the world, we went to amazing places. Because of Birds of a Feather, it opened many doors.”

    The TV star continued: “We just had such amazing times and she was an amazing actress as well. She has got the most beautiful family, a loving husband Steve who was the love of her life. Her kids as well, she has got two kids and granddaughters as well.” Linda added: “We sort of did everything the same. We were really naughty. We used our fame to get into so many different places.”

    Last week, Quirke’s husband Steve Sheen said she will retire from “all professional and commercial duties” after a diagnosis in 2021. On Instagram, 66-year-old Loose Women star Robson wrote: “This will be the only time I speak on behalf of my best friend, Pauline. For the past three years, I’ve been in close contact with her husband, Steve, and have spent time with Pauline. It breaks my heart to see her endure such a terrible illness. Out of respect for her family and her privacy, I will not be discussing this matter further.”

    Linda Robson
    She struggled to contain her emotions
    Steve said in his own statement: “It is with a heavy heart that I announce my wife Pauline’s decision to step back from all professional and commercial duties due to her diagnosis of Dementia in 2021.” It was revealed on Loose Women last week that Linda had known about Pauline’s diagnosis for “some time”.

    As the devastating announcement was released, Linda was on a Caribbean cruise. She was near the island of Grenada and was unaware the statement was to be released, according to reports. Linda’s Loose Women co-star Ruth Langsford also addressed her being away as Pauline’s health battle was discussed by the panel on Tuesday’s show.

    Ruth said: “Linda Robson, obviously great friends with Pauline, is actually away at the moment, otherwise she would have joined us today to talk about her friend. And obviously she has known for some time.” Linda and Pauline have been friends since childhood, but have faced feud rumours over the years.

  • Alison Hammond reveals how son Aiden came to her rescue during scary experience

    Alison Hammond reveals how son Aiden came to her rescue during scary experience

    This Morning presenter Alison Hammond opened up about her near panic attack while filming her new show, Florida Unpacked, with her son

    Alison Hammond revealed she almost had a panic attack while filming for her show, Florida Unpacked.

    The This Morning star, 49, appeared on Friday’s episode of Loose Women with her 19-year-old son, Aidan, to discuss the programme. While talking to Judi Love, Nadia Sawalha, Kaye Adams and Frankie Bridge, she admitted she was terrified while filming the show as she thought she would have a run-in with alligators.

    “There is a moment we are doing canoeing actually, and I started having a panic attack,” she explained. “I started having a panic attack because I thought there were alligators and do you know when you get the heebie-jeebies about spiders crawling all over you, and I started having a proper panic attack.

    “He [Aidan] looked like the adult that was like ‘Mum, we are going to go back, calm down.’ I looked like a five-year-old.” The dynamic duo’s new travel show, Alison Hammond: Florida Unpacked, will have Alison conquering the sunny climes of Florida with Aidan, providing escapism, a dose of sunshine, and top-notch travel advice to make our winter a little brighter.

    Alison Hammond
    She had to be comforted by Aidan 
    Image:
    ITV)

    Elsewhere in the chat, the panel discussed Alison’s stellar TV career, with Judi Love saying: “It’s just lovely as a mum to see you with your son. I remember we did an awards show you mentioned that you were sorry about the times you haven’t been there for Aidan, how did that make you feel when you saw your mum do that speech?”

    Back in December, Alison received the Role Model Award at the MBCC in Birmingham. The This Morning star gave a touching speech as she accepted her award – declaring all her hard work had been for Aidan. She said at the time: “I love you so much son and I’m sorry I haven’t always been there but I’ll be honest with you, the reason I was doing it, was only for you.”

    As they reminisced about this special memory on Loose Women, Aidan answered, adding: “Yeah it was nice, it was a nice feeling as obviously I know everything she does is for me. It was just nice.” Alison then laughed as she chimed in with: “Be honest… you weren’t bothered that I wasn’t around. You were like: ‘Thank God she’s not here, thank goodness! Oh, she’s coming back again now? Here she is again, oh here we go!’”

    Loose Women airs on weekdays on ITV at 12:30pm*