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New character Brie appeared on Coronation Street just in time to throw a wrench in Lauren Bolton’s trial – but Brie’s actress, Jessica Ellis, was a very familiar face to many fans

There was a familiar face in scenes with Lauren Bolton on Wednesday’s episode of Coronation Street.

A new character is here to cause even more trouble for Lauren, and viewers immediately realised that they’d seen her face before. Brie, played by Jessica Ellis, 37, appeared as a fellow prisoner with Lauren, housed in the same area.

While Lauren is staying in the mother and baby unit with baby son Frankie, Brie is there with her baby daughter. Soon enough, the pair clashed with fans expecting more drama for the teen mum.

But many viewers were left thrilled when they realised where they knew Brie from. Actress Jessica is best known for playing Tegan Lomax on Hollyoaks.

Jessica was on the soap from 2013 to 2018, featured in a jaw-dropping 398 episodes. The star is no stranger to soaps, having acted in a couple of episodes of EastEnders in back 2011, and one episode of Doctors the same year.

Taking to X as the scenes aired, fans shared where the knew Brie from. One viewer said: “TEGAN,” as another excitedly said: “ITS TEGAN.” A third comment said: “Yayyy! Tegan Lomax. Another one off Hollyoaks,” as a fourth wrote: “Teagan Lomax.”

Fans instantly recognised Jessica Ellis as Tegan Lomax from rival soap Hollyoaks
Brie isn’t the only new character involved in Lauren’s trial with an actor fans will recognise from elsewhere. Corrie has signed up EastEnders star Samuel James, who is best known for playing Jimmie Broome on BBC One’s EastEnders, and for his role as Garth Stubbs on Birds of a Feather.

According to The Sun, Samuel will be joining Corrie as solicitor Steven Poyser, who is leading the prosecution in the court case. A source told the publication: “Samuel will appear on screen for a number of episodes in a guest role as Lauren’s fate is finally revealed.”

It comes as Lauren’s onscreen boyfriend Max Turner is set to leave the ITV soap, with actor Paddy Bever quitting the role. The star has already filmed his final scenes and will depart from the screen in early spring.Bosses have known that he would bow out since March last year, allowing them time to develop his exit storyline which comes amid huge turmoil for the Platt family in the coming weeks. He told The Mirror: “After much reflection and in an incredibly difficult decision, I have chosen to step away from Max, and Coronation Street, to explore new opportunities.

“I have been surrounded by such kindness and support every step of the way. It’s been a great privilege to contribute to the legacy of such a well-loved and iconic show. This chapter has been unforgettable and while I look forward to what lies ahead, I will treasure these memories.”

For years, Linda Nolan wrote bravely about the realities of living with incurable cancer in her candid Mirror column, and as she reached her final days, she made sure to document every moment she could

The brave and inspirational Linda Nolan, who has passed away at the age of 65, spent her final days surrounded by her devoted siblings, who were at her bedside when she died.

Linda’s final moments were said to have been full of “love and comfort” after one last bustling Christmas with her beloved family, who kept a vigil by her side as she reached her final hours. Linda had lived with cancer for many years, and in March 2023, it was revealed the disease had spread to her brain.

Christmas was singer and actress Linda’s “favourite time of year”, and she documented this last one in her candid column for the Mirror, which was filled with examples of her excellent sense of humour and ability to look on the bright side, even during some of the most painful times in her life.

Sadly, a bad chest infection left Linda unable to eat her Christmas dinner, or indeed get down any nutrients other than energy drinks for the next 11 days, much to the dismay of her close-knit band of surviving sisters, Anne, 74, Denise, 72, Maureen, 69, and Coleen, 59.

The singer was surrounded by loved ones at the end ( 
Image:
OK!/David Cummings)

Family was everything to Linda ( 
Image:
Dave Benett/Getty Images for Hea)

Linda’s death has come as a shock to her loyal fans, many of whom have followed her cancer journey in her refreshingly honest weekly Mirror column.

In a column published on January 1, Linda explained that she’d been unable to “eat a bite, not even a sprout” on what was her “favourite day of the year”. Linda recalled: “I staggered down at noon and could only sit on the sofa as everyone else tucked into lunch. I managed to open some presents but was back in bed by 8 pm. I still have gifts unwrapped. A travesty.”

On Boxing Day, Linda headed to the GP, where she was prescribed antibiotics for a chest infection as well as anti-sickness pills for nausea. She was keen to avoid a hospital visit, so her doctor agreed she could go back home unless her condition took a turn.

Admitting that it hadn’t been the fun-filled festive season she’d hoped for, Linda penned: “It’s been grim. It wasn’t the Christmas I wanted. There was no late-night karaoke, and not one of my four selection boxes got opened. As I write this, I don’t plan to go to Coleen’s New Year’s bash either. No burger van in the driveway for me, and no cuddles with her son Jake’s new baby. I’m beyond disappointed.”

Nolan sister Linda was disappointed to have missed out on Coleen’s New Year’s Eve bash
After becoming worried about Linda on New Year’s Eve, Denise, 72, made sure to have her checked over at the hospital, where she was put on a dose of steroids on top of antibiotics. In another piece, Linda reflected on her low-key end to the year, with close pal Sue joining her at home. According to Linda: “They sent me back home to rest, and she was then reassured enough to go to Coleen’s New Year’s party as my friend Sue and her husband Graham came round to stay. I was asleep by 10.10 pm – but that was pretty good going!

“I missed out on pizzas and babies – our new great nephews, Coleen’s son Jake’s boy and our brother Tommy’s new grandson. But for the first time in my life, I wasn’t in the mood for cuddles.”

In her final Mirror column, published January 8, Linda revealed her first meal of 2025 had been a takeaway dish of “Chicken curry with pineapple, no mushrooms”, which she enjoyed with Denise and her husband, Tom Anderson. Linda told readers: “Pineapple in a curry. That was the foil container to finally tempt me out of my fast. My very own Chinese New Year. I hadn’t eaten for 11 days – what a Christmas! A complete wipe out. Everyone’s been so worried. The girls have been bringing me energy drinks, and that’s all I’ve been able to get down.”

Linda will be remembered for her contributions to music, and her campaign work ( 
Image:
Mirrorpix via Getty Images)The next day, Linda felt well enough to visit her brother Brian, whose wife Annie had baked a plate of scones, and a coffee and walnut cake. Witty even in her final days, Linda wrote: “I told her no one likes a show off. I ate a whole half a scone. Jam and cream too. It was so good to get out and chat – or listen, rather, which I know sounds unlikely, but I’m suffering from the worst dry mouth, so gossiping’s restricted. I think that’s a chemo side-effect rather than the flu.”

Discussing how ill she’d been, Linda said: “The doctors say it’s been a bad case of flu. I’d walk a few steps and struggle to catch my breath. My legs were even more wobbly than usual and, although I try not to, I thought of how Bernie was at the end. You think, ‘Oh my God, is this it?’

“It was only on Monday I felt well enough to venture out. It feels like a whole new world out there. There’s nothing like the sensation of starting to feel better after an illness. You’ve forgotten what it feels like to feel normal (well, I say normal?). In a final line that now feels poignant in retrospect, Linda continued: “I’m no fan of resolutions, but here’s one: It’ll take more than flu to finish me off.”

Linda used her fame as a Nolan sister to campaign for important cancer-related causes ( 
Image:
Mirrorpix)

She led the campaign for wonderdrug Enhertu to be made readily available on the NHS for all those with secondary breast cancer ( 
Image:
Daily Mirror)
On Saturday 11, Linda was taken to hospital with breathing problems. Doctors diagnosed double pneumonia, and because of her secondary breast cancer, which had spread to her brain, she was sadly unable to recover. Linda’s sisters, Anne, Denise, Maureen, and Coleen, were called to her bedside at 3.30 am on Tuesday as doctors started end-of-life care. They kept a vigil by her side in her final hours before she passed away peacefully on Wednesday.

In a statement released to the Mirror, agent Dermot McNamara, said: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Linda Nolan, the celebrated Irish pop legend, television personality, Guinness World Record-holding West End star, Sunday Times bestselling author and Daily Mirror columnist.”

The statement continued: “She passed peacefully, with her loving siblings by her bedside, ensuring she was embraced with love and comfort during her final moments. Linda’s legacy extends beyond her incredible achievements in music and entertainment. She was a beacon of hope and resilience, sharing her journey to raise awareness and inspire others. Rest in peace, Linda. You will be deeply missed but never forgotten.”

This statement also acknowledged Linda’s impressive achievements as a West End star and singer, as well as in the field of charity campaigning. It reads: “As a member of The Nolans, one of the most successful girl groups of all time, Linda achieved global success, touring the world and selling over 30 million records, with hits such as Gotta Pull Myself Together, Attention to Me and the iconic disco classic I’m In The Mood for Dancing. Her distinctive voice and magnetic stage presence brought joy to fans around the world, securing her place as an icon of British and Irish entertainment.

“Linda also dedicated her life to helping others, helping raise over £20 million for numerous charities, including Breast Cancer Now, Breast Cancer Ireland and Samaritans, amongst countless others. Her selflessness and tireless commitment to making a difference in the lives of others will forever be a cornerstone of her legacy.”

After first being diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005, Linda was given the all-clear in 2011. However, in 2017, just four years after the tragic death of sister Bernie in 2013, at the age of just 53, Linda learned the disease had returned after tumours were discovered in her hip bone and pelvis. Like Bernie, Linda was diagnosed with incurable secondary breast cancer and remained determined to make the absolute most of the time she had left.

Using her significant platform as a music icon, and her wonderful sense of humour, Linda dedicated herself to helping others who were navigating similar ordeals. This included her own sister Anne, who was diagnosed with stage three breast cancer in 2020, mere days after Linda learned her cancer had spread to her liver.

The two supportive sisters underwent chemotherapy together, but while Anne thankfully went into remission, Linda’s cancer could only be slowed down, not cured. In 2023, Linda discovered the cancer had spread to her bones and brain, but even then, she continued to throw herself into charity work – leading the campaign for wonderdrug Enhertu to be made readily available on the NHS for all those living with secondary breast cancer.

Linda Nolan, who has today passed away at the age of 65, enjoyed an incredible life surrounded by loved ones. But one painful regret continued to haunt her as she entered her later years

Linda Nolan lived an extraordinary life filled with accomplishments and love, but she harboured one painful regret.

Pop icon Linda, who rose to fame with her sisters in Irish girl group The Nolans, passed away “peacefully” today surrounded by loved ones, at the age of 65. Linda had lived with cancer for many years, having first been diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005. In March 2023, it was revealed the disease had spread to her brain.

In spite of her ongoing health struggles, Linda kept her brilliant sense of humour and ability to find joy even in her toughest moments. A much-loved Mirror columnist, in one of her final pieces, Dublin-born Linda was able to look on the bright side despite having spent her final Christmas too ill to eat or hug her new grand-nephews.

She told Mirror readers: “Although I’ve missed the revelry, there’s been a different kind of Christmas and New Year in its place. Days of peace and reflection. We’ve talked about Christmases past and all the good times. We popped Sinatra on and remembered Mum and Dad. And my best friend Sue plans to stay with me to see in the New Year, telling me, ‘I am where you are’.”

The singer passed away ‘peacefully’ today, surrounded by her sisters ( 
Image:
PA)

Despite expressing gratitude for all the joy she’d experienced over the years, Linda never shied away from sharing the heartaches she endured – including her regrets over never had children of her own.

Looking back on her eventful life, Linda told RSVP Magazine in 2021: “My only regret in life is that I didn’t have children and that is nobody’s fault but my own. The reason I didn’t have children is because I let my career get in the way and I thought, ‘No, I will wait’. But I don’t dwell on it, and I don’t cry whenever I see a baby.”

She wished she and husband Brian had welcomed children together ( 
Image:
PA)
Linda, who tragically tost husband Brian Hudson to cancer in 2007, also spoke about not having children in her 2018 autobiography From My Heart, where she discussed what she would have done differently if she could have her “time again”.

She wrote: “It was completely down to my career and the idea that I had all the time in the world, and then you realise you don’t. Instead of putting it off year after year, if I had my time again, I would have said to Brian, ‘Well, no time is perfect, let’s have a child’.”

Although she never fulfilled her wish, Linda was a stepmother to Brian’s children, Lloyd and Sarah and was also a foster carer. As the sixth of eight children, she also welcomed many nieces, nephews, and eventually great-nieces and great-nephews.

Brian passed away in 2007 ( 
Image:
Sunday People)
In a statement released to the Mirror, Linda’s agent Dermot McNamara said: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Linda Nolan, the celebrated Irish pop legend, television personality, Guinness World Record-holding West End star, Sunday Times bestselling author and Daily Mirror columnist.”

The statement continued: “She passed peacefully, with her loving siblings by her bedside, ensuring she was embraced with love and comfort during her final moments. Linda’s legacy extends beyond her incredible achievements in music and entertainment. She was a beacon of hope and resilience, sharing her journey to raise awareness and inspire others. Rest in peace, Linda. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.”

As the sixth of eight children, Linda enjoyed a busy family life ( 
Image:
TV Times via Getty Images)And in a heartbreaking tribute posted to Instagram, grieving sister Coleen wrote: “I am utterly devastated by the passing of my sister, Linda. Linda was a beacon of love, kindness, and strength. Her wit, humour and laughter was infectious, her presence could light up any room.

“Linda had a heart full of compassion and always knew how to bring comfort and joy to those around her. Her memory will live on in the many lives she touched, and while we will miss her more than words can express, we take solace in the love and warmth she shared with all of us. Rest in peace, Linda. You will forever be in our hearts. Love you, Coleen xxx (Colette)”

For more information or support about cancer, you can contact Macmillan Cancer Support or you can call 020 7940 1760 for advice.

Linda Nolan, who has sadly passed away at the age of 65, was left heartbroken following the death of her soulmate husband, Brian Hudson. But she had, in recent times, felt ‘ready for love’ again

Linda Nolan was loved by many, but there was only one man in her life who held her full heart.

The Nolan sister, who sadly passed away today (Wednesday, January 15) at the age of 65, spoke just last year about wanting to find romance while living with incurable cancer after losing her beloved husband to the same disease.

Dublin-born Linda, who rose to fame alongside sisters and bandmates Anne, Denise, Maureen, Bernie and Coleen, was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005. A fall in 2017 led to the discovery of cancer in her pelvis, which had spread to her liver by 2020. In March 2023, the singer revealed that the cancer had spread to her brain.

Throughout her significant struggles, Linda remained a beacon of positivity, and even during gruelling treatment, she felt “ready for love” again. However, she knew all too well that no man could hold a candle to her husband of 26 years, Brian Hudson.

Singer Linda rose to fame with her close-knit sisters in The Nolans ( 
Image:
Andre Csillag/REX/Shutterstock)

Linda met Brian in 1977, back when he was The Nolans’ tour manager. They married two years later with her close-knit gang of sisters, of course, on hand for bridesmaid duties. There was plenty of joy ahead for the couple, as well as profound sorrow.

Brian died at the age of 60 in 2007 from cancer, all while Linda was dealing with her agonising breast cancer diagnosis. It was a devastating loss for Linda, who longed to have Brian back by he side as she navigated many trials and tribulations in the years that followed.

Brian was Linda’s tour manager ( 
Image:
Daily Record)

Sparks flew and they married in 1979 ( 
Image:
Mirrorpix)
As she told the Mirror in 2016: “I know my family are desperate for me to be happy again, it breaks their hearts as well as mine. But I just don’t ever see it happening. I miss Brian every second of the day. I know some people find it difficult to understand that the grief is still that raw, but it will always be raw because somebody you love isn’t with you. A little piece of me died with him.”

Concerned sister Coleen also opened up about Linda’s grief, reflecting that her sibling deserved to find love again. It wasn’t quite so simple for grief-stricken Linda, however, who at that point still carried a ‘token urn’ of some of his ashes wherever she went.

Linda’s sisters longed for her to find happiness again with someone else, but it just wasn’t that simple ( 
Image:
Mirrorpix)

By 2022, Linda had begun dabbling with online dating, with her ever-supportive sisters even setting her up on Tinder. However, after realising it wasn’t quite the right platform for her, and wanting something a little less casual, Linda signed up for some dating apps aimed at more mature people, revealing that she’d “spoken and met with a few people”.

In a piece penned for the Daily Express at the time, Linda reflected: “While nothing has come of it per se, the whole experience showed me that romance could be possible in my life again one day and made me think it would be nice to have some male company.

“I’m not talking about marriage or anything like that. I know I’ve already had the love of my life and have been incredibly lucky to have that. But perhaps there could still be someone else out there for me – someone to watch a film or go with a drink with, the companionship.”

And by March 2024, Linda felt ready to take the plunge and find love again, cheekily telling Hello! magazine: “If a George Clooney lookalike came along, it would be hard to resist, but if he had the personality of a mouse, I wouldn’t be interested. There has to be humour and romance. Not too much to ask for, is it?”

Brian’s sense of humour was one of his best attributes ( 
Image:
Sunday Mail)
Humour was one of the attributes Linda loved best about hubby Brian, recalling how Brian was left smiling away on their wedding day after her father accidentally dropped his false teeth down the loo and so had to give his father-of-the-bride speech with a “whistle”. She shared: “That’s how I’ll always remember him, always smiling.”

Ahead of her final Christmas, Linda spoke with her usual zest for life about her determination to make every last second count. In a poignant message of defiance, Linda told the Mirror: “I thought my 60th birthday would be my last, but I’m still here, five years later. It’s easy to sit back and get depressed about it, but I’m still going. My hope for 2025? To not die, obviously. I just want to be here with my family. I want us all to be here next year, that’s the goal.”

In a statement released to the Mirror, agent Dermot McNamara said: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Linda Nolan, the celebrated Irish pop legend, television personality, Guinness World Record-holding West End star, Sunday Times bestselling author and Daily Mirror columnist.”

The statement continued: “She passed peacefully, with her loving siblings by her bedside, ensuring she was embraced with love and comfort during her final moments. Linda’s legacy extends beyond her incredible achievements in music and entertainment. She was a beacon of hope and resilience, sharing her journey to raise awareness and inspire others. Rest in peace, Linda. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.”

For more information or support about cancer, you can contact Macmillan Cancer Support or you can call 020 7940 1760 for advice.

Linda Nolan was honoured on ITV’s Loose Women following the heartbreaking news that the singer and TV personality had tragically died following a 20 year battle with cancer

Linda Nolan was honoured on Wednesday’s Loose Women by the emotional stars of the show following her tragic death.

The tragic news broke just as the show went to air, with Linda’s manager announcing that the singer and television star had died at the age of 65 following a courageous battle with cancer. On Wednesday’s instalment of the ITV panel show, of which Linda was a regular guest, Christine Lampard, Myleene Klass, Kelly Brook and Nadia Sawalha shared their memories of Linda.

Announcing the news, host Christine said: “Some very sad news for you now. Linda Nolan, Coleen’s sister, who was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer in 2017 has died at the ae of 65. In a statement just released, ‘It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Linda Nolan, she passed peacefully with her loving siblings by her bedside, ensuring she was embraced with love and comfort during her final moments.

“Linda’s legacy extends beyond her incredible achievements in music and entertainment. She was a beacon of hope and resilience. Sharing her journey to raise awareness and inspiring others. Rest in peace Linda you will be deeply missed but never forgotten. We’ve been talking about Linda for so long with Coleen, and I know it was an incredibly tough time for the family but you’re just never prepared.”

Loose Women aired a moving tribute

Linda often appeared on the programme alongside her younger sister, Coleen. In a moving tribute, Nadia said: “Nothing prepares because there is a moment when the light goes out, and when the light goes out, that is the most awful shock. They’ve been through so much as a family, sending all our love.” “Yes, absolutely,” echoed Christine, before adding: “Sending love to Coleen, Linda’s family, all of the family. We’re thinking of you all today.”

In a statement released to the Mirror, agent Dermot McNamara, said: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Linda Nolan, the celebrated Irish pop legend, television personality, Guinness World Record holding West End star, Sunday Times bestselling author and Daily Mirror columnist.

“She passed at around 10:20am. The family said the hospital couldn’t do enough, they were tireless and made it so much more bearable. She passed peacefully, with her loving siblings by her bedside, ensuring she was embraced with love and comfort during her final moments. Linda’s legacy extends beyond her incredible achievements in music and entertainment. She was a beacon of hope and resilience, sharing her journey to raise awareness and inspire others. Rest in peace, Linda. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.”

Anchor Christine Lampard became emotional as she announced Linda’s passing
The family have asked us not to name the hospital, but have assured well-wishers they will be organising a public memorial for the much-loved star. The news of Linda’s death will come as a shock to her loyal fans who had followed her as she shared the frank and honest realities of her journey with cancer in her weekly Mirror column.

Linda’s passing comes just one week after she told the Mirror that despite being ill over Christmas, she was feeling somewhat better. However, just two days later, she was taken to hospital after her breathing deteriorated. Linda was subsequently diagnosed with double pneumonia and due to her secondary breast cancer, which had also spread to her brain, her condition worsened.

Her sisters – Anne, 74, Denise, 72, Maureen, 69, and Coleen, 59 – were called to her bedside at 3.30am on Tuesday as doctors made the decision to place her in end-of-life care. They kept a vigil by her side in her final hours. Over the course of her career, Linda and her siblings, The Nolans, sold a whopping 30 million records, toured with Frank Sinatra and even performed for President Gerald Ford.

Presenter Nadia Sawalha also honoured Linda and shared her love with the Nolan familySharing her achievements in a statement, Dermot went on to say: “As a member of The Nolans, one of the most successful girl groups of all time, Linda achieved global success, touring the world and selling over 30 million records, with hits such as Gotta Pull Myself Together, Attention to Me and the iconic disco classic I’m In The Mood for Dancing. Her distinctive voice and magnetic stage presence brought joy to fans around the world, securing her place as an icon of British and Irish entertainment.

“Linda also dedicated her life to helping others, helping raise over £20million for numerous charities, including Breast Cancer Now, Breast Cancer Ireland and Samaritans, amongst countless others. Her selflessness and tireless commitment to making a difference in the lives of others will forever be a cornerstone of her legacy.”

Linda was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005 and was given the all-clear in 2011. But in 2017 – four years after the death of her sister Bernie, aged 52 in 2013 – Linda was told the disease had returned after tumours were found in her hip bone and pelvis. Like Bernie, she was diagnosed with incurable secondary breast cancer but remained determined to make the most of the time she had left.

Loose Women was hosted by Christine Lampard on Tuesday afternoon, with Myleene Klass, Kelly Brook, and Nadia Sawalha on the panel, but it was missing one star.

This afternoon’s episode of Loose Women was a rollercoaster, starting off with a bit of mayhem as the show went live missing one of its stars. The ITV chat show had to adapt quickly when Nadia Sawalha didn’t make it on time for the opening.

Christine Lampard, married to football icon Frank Lampard, took the reins, with just Kelly Brook and Myleene Klass by her side announcing that Nadia had been “running late”. The panelist did eventually make a grand entrance, cycling onto the set, much to the amusement of everyone.

Despite the initial confusion for those tuning in, it turned out Nadia’s quirky arrival was all part of the act. She hopped off her bike, helmet still on, and quipped to the audience: “I was so frightened I was going to hurt the front row.”

Christine praised her efforts, saying: “You were brilliant.” But Nadia, wasn’t willing to accept her compliment as she retorted: “Shut up, I was so embarrassing.”

The mood took a sombre turn later in the show when the panel received heartbreaking news during the broadcast. Linda Nolan, a cherished member of the Loose Women family, has died following a battle with cancer, reports the Liverpool Echo.

Christine addressed her co-star’s absence
Fighting back tears, Christine delivered the devastating update post-break, announcing: “Some very sad news for you now, Linda Nolan, Coleen’s sister who was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer in 2017, has died at the age of 65.”

She added, with evident emotion: “In a statement just released, it is with profound sadness that we announced the passing of Linda Nolan. She passed peacefully with her loving siblings by her bedside, ensuring she was embraced with love and comfort during her final moments.”

Christine opened the show announcing “Nadia was running late”
Concluding her poigninat Tribute, Christine wrapped up: “Linda’s legacy extends beyond her incredible achievement in music and entertainment, she was a beacon of hope and resilience, sharing her journey to raise awareness and inspire others, rest in peace Linda, you will be deeply missed.”

The entire panel were visibly moved by the sad news. Despite knowing Linda’s death was most likely imminent, Nadia spoke about the shock of Linda’s passing and the whole family’s journey.

Linda Nolan sadly lost her battle with breast cancer ( 
Image:
Andy Stenning/Daily Mirror)She said: “Nothing prepares you for when the light goes out and when the light goes out that is the most awful shock and they’ve been through so much as a family.” Nadia finished up with: “Sending all of our love.”

In a statement given to the Mirror, agent Dermot McNamara confirmed Linda’s death, saying: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Linda Nolan, the celebrated Irish pop legend, television personality, Guinness World Record holding West End star, Sunday Times bestselling author and Daily Mirror columnist.

“She passed at around 10:20am at Blackpool Victoria Hospital on the MCEW Ward. The family said the hospital couldn’t do enough, they were tireless.”

Loose Women airs weekdays on ITV1, from 12:30pm.

Pop star Linda Nolan, 65, planned her own farewell when she learned her secondary breast cancer was terminal in a bid to help the beloved family she has left behind

Linda Nolan died today following a long journey with secondary breast cancer, but sadly it is a day that the 65 year old had been forced to prepare for all too well.

The late Daily Mirror Columnist, TV personality and pop star passed away with her famous sisters at her side, with her final hours said to have been filled with “love and comfort”.

Linda was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer in 2017 and in 2020 was devastated to learn it had spread. And when it came to her funeral, the brave star insisted on planning out her final farewell to spare them from the painful job.

Writing in her autobiography, From My Heart, in 2018 she explained: “I want to get all my affairs ‘in order’, as they say. I’ve caused my family enough worry over the years and so I want everything I can decided now so they don’t have to if I become very poorly.”

Linda is the second Nolan sister to die from breast cancer, with Bernie Nolan losing her life in 2013 at the age of 52 ( 
Image:
TV Times via Getty Images)

Linda planned her own funeral, drawing inspiration from how her late husband Brian prepared for his. She chose a Neil Sedaka tune, Our Last Song Together, for the service saying “It’s beautiful and by then it really will be our last song with my wonderful family” and also chose the funeral directors.

“Brian organised his funeral and it was amazing,” she said. “Bernie arranged hers. It’s easier for people left behind.”

When it came to her coffin, the singer opted for one in pink glitter. “Brian’s coffin was like a flight case, with ‘This way up’, ‘Fragile’ on it,” Linda told the Mirror. “Our auntie had a beautiful coffin with pictures of us around it.”

“Maureen said, ‘Look at this coffin, it was made for you, it’s pink glitter’,” added the star, who was once dubbed the “naughty Nolan”. “Absolutely. I am the blingy Nolan.”

Linda planned her own funeral after learning that her condition was terminal ( 
Image:
OK!/David Cummings)

Linda learned her cancer had returned 12 years after her original diagnosis in 2005, when she was babysitting her grand-nieces Ava, Sienna and Roma and fell down the stairs, feeling a crack in her hip. Doctors found a mass, which they confirmed was a cancer.

In a statement released to the Mirror today, agent Dermot McNamara, said: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Linda Nolan, the celebrated Irish pop legend, television personality, Guinness World Record holding West End star, Sunday Times bestselling author and Daily Mirror columnist.

“She passed peacefully, with her loving siblings by her bedside, ensuring she was embraced with love and comfort during her final moments. Linda’s legacy extends beyond her incredible achievements in music and entertainment. She was a beacon of hope and resilience, sharing her journey to raise awareness and inspire others. Rest in peace, Linda. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.”

Late Irish singer Linda Nolan made Blackpool her home after her band was formed in the city in the 1970s. She passed away on Wednesday – and the city has since paid a touching tribute to her

Blackpool Tower turned pink on Wednesday night in tribute to late singer Linda Nolan.

The entertainment world was saddened on Wednesday when it was revealed the singer had passed away at the age of 65 following a long battle against cancer. Linda passed away with her famous sisters at her side and reports revealed that her final hours were said to have been full of “love and comfort”.

While the chart singer was born in Dublin, Ireland, she found fame along with her sisters when they formed their band, The Nolans, in Blackpool in 1974. Linda went on to settle in the English city – and it was here that she passed away.

On Wednesday night, the Northern city paid tribute to the singer by turning the iconic Blackpool Tower pink in her honour. The 518ft structure was illuminated after sun down – with a pink heart added near the base.

Blackpool Tower lit up in pink in honour of Linda ( 
Image:
Dave Nelson)

Visit Blackpool highlighted the touching tribute, sharing a photo of the tower lit up via social media. An accompanying statement read: “Our thoughts are with the family, friends and fans of showbiz legend, Linda Nolan, who sadly passed away earlier today.

“This evening, The Blackpool Tower will be illuminated in pink as mark of respect. Rest in peace Linda, you will always be a shining star.”

The gesture was received warmly by fans who rushed to comment on the post – with one writing: “What a wonderful tribute to a wonderful lady! Linda was an inspiration to many! Back in the arms of her husband and Bernie xx love to all her family.”

Another fan typed: “Well done Blackpool Thinking of Linda’s family, friends and fans of Linda Nolan at this distressing time.” And a further social media user wrote: “Sorry to read of Linda’s passing. R.I.P. Linda .My condolences to rest of family and friends.”

In a statement released to the Mirror on Wednesday, agent Dermot McNamara, said: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Linda Nolan, the celebrated Irish pop legend, television personality, Guinness World Record holding West End star, Sunday Times bestselling author and Daily Mirror columnist.

“She passed at around 10:20am at Blackpool Victoria Hospital on the MCEW Ward. The family said the hospital couldn’t do enough, they were tireless.”

The statement continued: “She passed peacefully, with her loving siblings by her bedside, ensuring she was embraced with love and comfort during her final moments. Linda’s legacy extends beyond her incredible achievements in music and entertainment. She was a beacon of hope and resilience, sharing her journey to raise awareness and inspire others. Rest in peace, Linda. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.”

Tributes quickly emerged for the singer on social media, with her sister, Loose Women star Coleen Nolan, reposting her agent’s statement with a heartbroken emoji. On the ITV show today, the panel paid an emotional tribute to Coleen’s loss with host Christine Lampard saying: “Some very sad news for you now. Linda Nolan, Coleen’s sister, who was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer in 2017 has died at the age of 65.”

Chris McCausland and Dianne Buswell are known for their hilarious friendship on Strictly Come Dancing, but Dianne may have taken her antics too far after Chris said he’s setting lawyers on her

Chris McCausland, 47, has threatened to take legal action against his Strictly Come Dancing partner Dianne Buswell, 35.

BBC star Dianne shared a video on Instagram showing her playing a game she used to play with Chris. Back when she and Chris were dancing together, he would take different KitKats and get her to guess the flavour just by taste and smell. With Chris back on the road doing stand-up, however, Dianne stepped into Chris’ shoes and got her dad, Mark, to take the place of the guesser- and Chris jokingly said that she could expect to see him in court.

Kicking off the video, Dianne explained: “I’m going to do Chris’ role, and you’re going to try and do what I would do, which is guess the flavour.” She then got her partner, Joe Sugg, 33, to model a ski suit, and revealed that the eye-catching look was up for grabs as a prize: “You’ll get a double pair for you and mum, and it’s state of the art – because that’s what Chris would always say.”

Chris and Dianne used to play a ‘guess the KitKat flavour’ game, but without her dance partner Dianne got her dad and partner involved ( 
Image:
diannebuswell/Instagram)

Chris jokingly said he was ‘speaking to lawyers’ after Dianne nicked his game, and fans fawned over the duo’s humour ( 
Image:
PA)
Unfortunately, Mark wasn’t as skilled at the game as Dianne and Chris, and it took multiple rounds of guessing and clues for him to figure out that the flavour was cookies and cream. Dianne offered all sorts of prizes, eventually landing on a flight back to Australia for her parents.

“The Christmas special of guess the flavour ! Don’t worry production manager @chrismccauslandcomedy has given the all clear to go ahead with the episode without him ! Our special guest is the one and only MARK @mark.3802,” she captioned the video.

While Dianne joked in her caption that gamesmaster Chris had given permission for them to use his game, the comedian quickly snapped back in the comments: “Wow. I’m speaking to my lawyers. You must’ve really wanted him back on that flight to keep it going that long,” he joked alongside a laughing emoji.

“My dad makes me look like the Einstein of Kit Kat tasting!” Dianne responded. Many fans also left comments, begging Dianne and Chris to reunite for more laughs.

“Hahahahahaha not sure who’s funnier now. But now I get why Dianne and Chris got on so well! @chrismccauslandcomedy has the same sense of humour and personality as her family back home in Australia,” one person wrote. “I can’t tell you how much I miss you and Chris doing this. Great to see your dad stepping in to do it. Brilliant,” said a second.

Unfortunately, Chris and Dianne won’t reunite for the Strictly tour, which has dates scheduled between January 17 and February 9. On X, formerly known as Twitter, Chris revealed that he had touring responsibilities of his own with his return to stand-up.

“I’m afraid I will not be able to do the Strictly tour. My own tour was meant to be on the road in September and a lot of dates were moved to Jan and Feb to accommodate doing #Strictly. It’s unfortunate as it’s been so much fun, but my own dates can’t be moved for a second time,” he explained.

He later added: “It’s fine to have two different feelings about the same thing. I would’ve loved to have done more dancing with Dianne and it would’ve been a lot of fun, but also I’m very lucky to have people want to watch me do stand-up and I’m enjoying getting back into that.”

The Loose Women and QVC star has shared an ‘upside down salad’ recipe with her fans, which she eats most days in a bid to stay healthy

Ruth Langsford has unveiled the ‘upside down salad’ recipe that she enjoys at work as a healthier alternative to ‘processed food’. The 64-year-old Loose Women panellist claimed her salad is far from being just ‘leaves’ and only requires nine main ingredients.

Posting on Instagram in September, Ruth provided an easy step-by-step guide on how to assemble this dish, while explaining how it’s actually ‘upside down’. “So, now I’m going to make what I call my ‘upside down salad’,” she said at the time.

“So, basically, I put everything in layers in one of these [glass tubs], which means that when I tip it out the lettuce is on the bottom and everything else that I want is in layers. Anyway, you get the gist.

“So, basically I put kitchen roll in the bottom [of the tub] because then any kind of juices from the tomatoes and cucumber soak a bit into that, so the whole salad doesn’t get soggy. So, that’s the gist and let me show you how I do it.”

Ruth first kicked off her recipe by chopping up some small tomatoes, in shades of red, orange and green, followed by some red onion. Although she confessed the tomatoes were ‘going a bit soft’, this didn’t seem to phase her as she mixed it together.

“Tuna on top of that,” Ruth continued. “I like tuna in olive oil, maybe a bit more calorific, but I don’t care because I love the taste. One hard boiled egg, you can put them the other way around, so that when you tip it up the yolks’ pointing up at you. It doesn’t really matter.

“Then some avocado, this is a bit brown, because I actually chopped it last night to use for something else and forgot it. It’s been in the fridge, it’s a bit brown, but it’s fine because it will be covered in salad dressing.

“Black olives, if you like them, I love them. There’s the cucumber – I scraped the seeds out because they are very wet and watery and will make that [salad] go soggy. Cucumber in, and then all I’ve got to do now is put the lettuce on.”

Bringing her food tub up to the camera, Ruth showed off the different layers of her salad. As the final cherry on top, she added her favourite Brianna’s Honey Mustard Dressing, ordered from Amazon, for some extra flavour.

Beyond its ‘delicious’ flavour, Ruth’s salad also contains an impressive number of ‘superfoods’ ( 
Image:
David M. Benett/Dave Benett/Getty Images)
“There you go! That’s tomorrow’s upside down salad,” she concluded, while adding in the video caption: “I take this to work most days….stops me grabbing unhealthy, processed food.

“Even when you make a healthy choice and buy a salad, in my experience, they’re mostly leaves!! This way you get a good, decent portion salad and you get to put all the things you like in it!”

Beyond its ‘delicious’ flavour, Ruth’s salad contains an impressive number of ‘superfoods’. Generally, this refers to items rich in nutrients and minerals which may boast a number of health benefits.

For instance, in 2014, the University of Bristol claimed that men who ate over 10 tomato portions per week had an 18% lower risk of developing prostate cancer. Nutritionist Helen Bell, at Help & Advice, also vouched for this in a conversation with the Mirror, while explaining that cooking them may bolster their protective effect.

She said: “There is evidence suggesting that tomatoes might lower prostate cancer risk, largely due to lycopene. This antioxidant is thought to reduce inflammation and prevent cancer cell growth. When I’ve looked into it, cooking tomatoes seems to increase lycopene availability, so enjoying them in sauces or soups might be particularly beneficial.”

Scientists have similarly lauded avocados for their high omega-3 content, referring to the healthy fats critical for both cardiovascular and brain health throughout life.

Specialists at the US-based University of Rochester Medical Centre previously explain ed: “Omega-3s are a helpful and important form of fat. Your body needs it but can’t make it. Your body needs 2 forms of omega fatty acids.

“These are omega-3 and omega-6. Omega-3 is the most important. Experts believe that omega-3s help prevent coronary heart disease (CHD) in healthy people. They also believe omega-3s can slow progress of the disease in those who already have it.”