These Daniel O’Donnell superfans collect teapots and pillowcases with his face emblazoned on them – and have travelled as far as the Bahamas for a meet and greet

We all are fans of somebody – it could be a movie star or rock singer, but only a very select few of us step into true superfan territory – where just watching all their movies or buying all their records is simply not enough.

Jacky Orriss, Rachel Barrett and Carol McAvunie are most definitely one of these special fans. But they are not Swifties or Gaga’s Little Monsters. The object of their fandom is…..Irish crooner Daniel O’Donnell.

Jacky Orriss travelled as far as the Bahamas for a meet and greet and even camped outside in the cold for two nights to snap up the best seats to see her idol perform.

Full-time carer Jacky has even queued to get tickets to see the County Donegal-born singer appear on TV shows Loose Women and Strictly when he was a contestant on the 2015 series.

“A real highlight for me was being able to attend two Strictly shows when he was dancing. My friend and I queued from 2am in the morning to get entry.”

The 56-year-old first fell for the country crooner after accompanying her mum to a concert when she was 27. She says: “My mum Christine has always been a huge fan, but I was never bothered. I was more into George Michael. Then one time my mum had tickets to his concert but didn’t have anyone to go with – so I went with her That was it. “

Jacky Orriss with Daniel’s wife Majella ( 
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Jacky Orriss)

Jacky wearing her Daniel scarf pictured with Daniel ( 
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Jacky Orris)
George was out, and Daniel was in and has been Jacky’s main obsession ever since, thanks to his lovely voice and beautiful lyrics.

An added plus is the benefits of the personal attention and appreciation Daniel shows all his fans. Perhaps unlike any other artist, he repays fan loyalty – staying behind for hours after shows to meet and chat with concertgoers.

Jacky explains: “He’s so lovely. He’ll give you a hug and a quick chat. I always used to get nervous, and I never knew what to say to him. But he’s just so down to earth, and he puts you at ease. He’s just a genuine person, he cares so much for his fans.

“He’s phoned me up a few times on special occasions and sent a video message on my 50th birthday.”

The 62-year-old singer has been married to wife Majella, 64, since 2002 and Jacky has given her seal of approval -although she admits some fans were not happy to see him in a relationship.

Jackie told us: “I have met Majella a couple of times. The first was Daniel’s 40th birthday party in Birmingham, where he invited all his fans and introduced Majella to us.”

She adds: “It’s true he lost a few of his fans after that! But I think Majella is lovely. She makes him happy, so I am pleased for him.” So much so that Jacky set up the Daniel and Majella O’Donnell’s Facebook group which has over 34k followers.

Daniel O’Donnell superfan Rachel Barrett with Daniel in the nineties ( 
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Rachel Barrett)
Rachel, 68, from Belfast, has seen Daniel in concert over 1000 times. She calls him her “hobby”.

“My geography improved greatly from going round the world to see him.” Most memorable was a trip to Branson, Missouri, where he performed a month-long residency in Branson, Missouri – she went to see him for all the dates.

Rachel explains,” My friend and I went to every single concert for the whole month. He didn’t do Thursday and Sunday so we did five concerts a week.”

Rachel’s grandchildren, 12-year-old twins Abigail and Jack, are also big fans – most recently, she took each one to him in concert on separate nights. “I took Abigail to see him in Belfast and Jack the next night at the Derry show. Abigail met Daniel afterwards – she was absolutely starstruck.”

Daniel O’Donnell superfan Rachel Barrett with Daniel in more recent years ( 
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Rachel Barrett)Rachel used to play Daniel’s music to the twins when they were babies; “They really loved the gospel songs. It reality helped them drift to sleep.”

Now it’s also the only way Rachel gets sleepy: “I go to sleep with Daniel every night! I never pass two songs before I fall asleep; that’s not a snub on Daniel – that’s because it’s so lovely and soothing.”

Daniel calls Rachel on birthdays, and he also called to see how she was when her son Paul was in a car accident – back in 1997.

The mum of two used to have a whole house of Daniel memorabilia up until a decade ago when she and her husband Richard downsized: ” I had to give away a lot of things like my pictures, cushions with Daniel’s wee face on them. I gave those to some fans in the US – they were delighted.”

Like Jacky, Majella was also there when Daniel introduced to Majella to fans on his 40th birthday concert and recalls a few fans turning against him: “I remember some of them getting up and walking out after he brought Majella on stage. It just proved they were not really fans. That was Daniel’s happiness. I just thought silly women – if he hasn’t married you now, he never is!”

Rachel has no issue with Daniel’s happiness, as he brings so much to her life.

She says: “I know some people don’t understand it, but I don’t understand it. Daniel is my happy place, you go there, and you just have a ball, and you talk to everybody.”

Daniel O’Donnell with superfan Carol Mcavinue daughter Anita then aged 3 ( 
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Carol Mcavinue)

Superfan Carol Mcavinue with Daniel and daughter Anita, now 33
Carol, 61, from Dublin, became a superfan 31 years ago, and since then, she has averaged two concerts a year.

She says: “I first saw him on TV -at the time, he was a new up-and-coming star – he had the voice, he had the look. Daniel had it all.”

The first time she went to see him, she was accompanied by her grandmother Kitty, mother Kay and her then three-year-old daughter Anita.

Carol recalls: “There were four generations of us, and we kept the concert going as if it were a family affair. Daniel took Anita up on stage with him. I’ll never forget it.”

Anita is now 33, but she still comes to see Daniel with her mum and her granny Kay, 85.

Superfan Carol Mcavinue and her Daniel O’Donnell memorabilia ( 
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Carol Mcavinue)
Most recently, she took her grandson Jack to see him – so that’s six generations of fandom.“Jack was so impressed by him.

For Carol, it extends beyond going to concerts. The grandmother has amassed a collection of memorabilia “ I’ve got the teapots, the cups, the pillow covers, and aprons with Daniel’s face – as well as some of his crystal too!”

Carol, who is also a regular recipient of Daniel’s birthday videos, was even invited to a garden tea party at his Donegal home.

“He used to throw those parties for fans every year!” Carol reveals. “I’ve only been once and my mum has never been to Donegal.

Carol’s favourite Daniel song is How Art Thou?

She explains: “It just sends a shiver down my spine every time I hear it.”

Carol’s husband Mick, she says has grown to like his music. “He has had no choice,” she laughs.

One thing that these three superfans are most grateful for is being part of such a warm, welcoming community of like-minded people who also share their love for all things Daniel – and there is no danger, they say, that our numbers will be diminishing anytime soon – thanks to the new generation of fans – their grandchildren.

Nadia Sawalha has been a vocal critic of the Israeli government’s actions in Palestine over the last 12 months and impressed her Jordanian-born father thanks to her new-found role as an activist

Standing in solidarity with the people of Palestine despite the threat of being blacklisted for doing so has made Nadia Sawalha a better person, the actress has admitted.

Nadia insists she isn’t brave for being a visible pro-Palestine activist as it’s just that she wouldn’t “be able to live with herself without saying something” on behalf of her father, Jordanian-born British actor Nadim Sawalha – admitting witnessing her dad’s reaction to the atrocities has broken her heart.

The Loose Women panellist has been one of the few vocal celebrities speaking out publicly about horrifying scenes occurring in the Middle East over the last year, routinely taking to her YouTube channel and Instagram page to educate her followers on what is happening in Gaza.

But despite the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ordering Israel to take action to prevent acts of genocide in Gaza and provide humanitarian aid to Palestinians back in January, and multiple organisations like the United Nations calling for an immediate ceasefire, revealing yourself to be pro-Palestine as a famous person doesn’t come without risk.

Oscar-winning actress Susan Sarandon was dropped as a client by United Talent Agency last year after speaking out against the Israeli government. Melissa Barrera was fired from her role in the seventh Scream movie after describing the situation in Gaza as “genocide and ethnic cleansing” on her social media pages, while Hacks actress Poppy Liu revealed in May that she has lost work thanks to showing Palestine solidarity.

So, with that in mind, does Nadia ever worry about potentially missing out on mainstream jobs due to her unwavering support for Palestine? “Yes, absolutely,” the former EastEnders actress admitted to the Mirror during a chat last week. “I’m so glad you’ve asked me this question. I would love more people to ask me about Palestine.”

The Loose Women star says advocating for a free Palestine has made her a better person ( 

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TikTok)

“Everything that I feel and think I say on Instagram, I say on my YouTube channel… we have consistently spoken day in, day out over the entire last year spoken about this, and I find it so agonisingly painful,” Nadia reveals. “I never go out of the house without people coming up to me and whispering ‘, Oh, thank you so much for what you’re doing. I can’t say anything because of my work. I can’t do anything because of this. I can’t say anything because of that.’ People will tell me, ‘Oh, you’re so brave,’ But it’s not – I’m not brave. It’s just that I cannot live with myself without saying something.”

The situation in Palestine has intensified over the last 12 months following Hamas, a militant group that has governed the Israeli-occupied Gaza Strip since 2007, launched an attack on Israel on October 7th that resulted in more than 1,200 deaths and multiple hostages being taken.

Israel has spent the last 12 months bombing Palestine. The death toll in Gaza since the beginning of the 10-month-old Israel-Hamas war has passed 40,000, according to the Health Ministry in the Hamas-run territory. The count does not distinguish civilians from militants. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu rejected Hamas’ offer for a ceasefire and return of hostages held in the Gaza Strip in February. As of September, 101 Israeli hostages remain.

Mainstream coverage of Israel’s relentless attacks has been heavily criticised by some pro-Palestine figures, with many using their social media platforms to share footage and images of the horrors happening in the Middle East. “It is a fine line because you want to help inform people, but you don’t want to become a bore about it because you want to keep people engaged,” Nadia told us while discussing how she shares content with her fans regarding the war. “People on my YouTube channel and Instagram followers say, ‘Oh, thank you so much. I just wasn’t aware, and I wasn’t aware of this, and I wasn’t aware of that. So I find it. It really nourishes me when people say that…”

Fire breaks out on the tents of displaced Palestinians after Israeli attacks on a hospital in Gaza on October 14 ( 

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Anadolu via Getty Images)

Fighting back the tears, Nadia explained: “When I feel so powerless, and I have .times where I am so low at the horror of it, and I feel so powerless, I think right, what can we do? Of course, you can’t go and save the world. But what can you do in your life? So if I do a post, somebody might say to me, ‘Oh, God, What? I didn’t know this, and I looked at it, and I read it, and I didn’t know the history that helps me feel powerless over it.”

Nadia isn’t the only celebrity using her fame to advocate for Palestine and call for a ceasefire, with the likes of Rachel Zegler, Andrew Garfield, Aimee Lou Wood, Joe Alwyn, Jennifer Lopez, Ben Affleck and Dua Lipa just some of the notable signatures on the latest open letter from Artists For Ceasefire to President Joe Biden urging him to “call for an immediate de-escalation and ceasefire in Gaza and Israel before another life is lost.”

“I feel now more people are wanting to know more, and that is really good because when our grandchildren ask us where we were and what we did, we have to have an answer,” Nadia stated when chatting about a new wave of stars speaking out in support of Palestine.

Nadia’s activism hasn’t just given the mum-of-two a sense of self-worth over the last year but impressed her father, Jordanian-born British actor Nadim Sawalha. Jordan once had control of the West Bank, named after its location near the Jordan River. The West Bank, one of two Palestinian territories (the second being the Gaza Strip), first emerged in the wake of the 1948 Arab–Israeli War as a region occupied and subsequently annexed by Jordan. Jordan ruled the territory until the 1967 Six-Day War when Israel occupied it.

Nadia’s father was born in Jordan and lived there before moving to Britain ( 

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TikTok)

Nadia’s activism and solidarity with the people of Palestine has impressed her father ( 

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TikTok)

“My dad is 91, and he’s Jordanian – he was the West Bank,” Nadia explained last week. “To watch his face through these horror stories just breaks my heart. But the one thing that’s come up is that so much good has come out of it. Personally, it’s changed me for the better.”

“It’s made me an activist and just made me even more sure of what I believe in and what I don’t,” Nadia told us last week, bursting into a giggle as she added: “My dad is just overwhelmed with mine and my sister’s Arabness. Solidarity brings solidarity in yourself and your character as well. So much good has come out of a terrible, terrible dark time.”

Another positive outcome of such a tragedy for Nadia has been the opportunity to learn about other cultures. “What I’ve really enjoyed is starting to learn more about Judaism,” she admitted. Now I follow so many Jewish accounts and listen to so many incredible Jewish opinions on all of this that that has been really enriching, because there are so many Jewish people across the world uniting.”

Jewish Voice for Peace is an American anti-Zionist left-wing Jewish advocacy organisation that is critical of Israel’s occupation of the Palestinian territories, stated on October 15 following Israel’s bombing of a makeshift displacement camp in the courtyard of a central Gaza hospital.

“Right now, Palestinians are being burned alive by Israeli bombs for over a year. U.S.-based defence contractors and big banks have seen profits soar,” a statement from Jewish Voice for Peace read as 500 Jews and allies shut down the New York Stock Exchange to demand the U.S. stop arming Israel and profiting from genocide.

On the same day, the U.S. warned Israel it would impose an arms embargo if the “dire” situation in Gaza regarding aid does not improve. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin give the Israeli Government 30 days to address the ‘deterioration of the humanitarian situation’ in Gaza.

Pressure is mounting on the U.K. government to impose an arms embargo on Israel, but the Prime Minister ruled out a total ban on selling weapons to Israel last week. During PMQs, Keir Starmer said, “Banning all sales would mean none for defensive purposes. None for defensive purposes on the anniversary of October 7 and days after a huge attack by Iran on Israel would be a wrong position for this Government, and I will not take it.”

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Despite Meghan Markle’s concerted efforts, which included her meticulously curated jam and a state visit to Nigeria, a commentator asserts that only about one-third of Americans hold a favorable opinion of the Duchess of Sussex.

According to a recent Newsweek poll, 36 percent of surveyed adults expressed a positive view of Meghan, while 24 percent disliked her, resulting in a net approval rating of +12. Notably, this rating represents a significant decline from the survey conducted just three months prior, in February.

In an analysis featured in The Telegraph, David Christopher Kaufman describes Meghan as well-educated and exceptionally articulate. While she often emphasizes her mid-level accomplishments, her most enduring achievement remains her marriage into the Windsor family.

Kaufman points out that Meghan’s challenge lies in her unwavering belief in the lasting impact of her achievements, even after she has ceased actively achieving. He suggests that both Harry and Meghan might find more abundant opportunities in the UK than in the US. Kaufman humorously observes that the couple currently resides in an opulent Montecito villa funded by familial resources, awaiting their next venture. Perhaps a return to Britain, where Harry’s birth affords greater prospects, could be advantageous.

Despite their initial reluctance to engage with tabloids, Harry and Meghan’s decision to enlist a UK-based PR team reflects their recognition of the importance of maintaining communication with the British media. Recently, Meghan made new PR hires—Charlie Gipson and Kyle Boulia—to revitalize her public image.

Additionally, the couple’s ambitious Spotify partnership resulted in substantial financial losses. Following the announcement of the end of Meghan and Harry’s Spotify deal, Bill Simmons, Spotify’s head of podcast innovation, criticized the couple, labeling them as “grifters.”

Meghan’s subsequent deal with Lemonada Media, announced in February, marked her return to the podcasting world after the abrupt conclusion of her Spotify venture.

Prince Harry Stuns with DNA Test Revelation: “Though Archie Is Not My Biological Son, I Still Love Him”

In an extraordinary turn of events, Prince Harry has allegedly revealed the results of a DNA test concerning his firstborn son, Archie. The shocking admission has sent ripples through royal circles and left the public in disbelief: Archie is reportedly not Prince Harry’s biological child. Despite this revelation, Prince Harry made it clear that his love for his son remains unchanged.

A Royal Shockwave

 

The British royal family has always been subject to speculation and scrutiny, but this latest development has caught even the most seasoned royal watchers off guard. According to rumors, Harry and Meghan had chosen to take a private DNA test for Archie amidst swirling doubts and rumors about their son’s paternity. These whispers have circulated in gossip circles for years, but the couple had previously dismissed them as baseless. However, Harry’s recent revelation has added an unexpected twist.

 

Though Archie may not be his biological son, Prince Harry is said to have spoken about the matter with calm and heartfelt honesty. “It doesn’t change anything,” Harry reportedly said. “From the moment I first held Archie in my arms, I knew he was my son. Blood isn’t the only thing that makes a father – love, care, and devotion do.”

The Importance of Family

Prince Harry’s reported statement about Archie is not just a personal reflection but a testament to his dedication as a father. For Harry, family has always been at the heart of his decisions. His commitment to creating a loving environment for Archie and Lilibet has remained unwavering, despite his departure from royal duties and the intense media scrutiny that has followed his family since he and Meghan moved to California.

“This is my family,” Harry allegedly declared. “Archie and Lilibet will always be the children I’ve raised, protected, and loved unconditionally. Nothing will change that.”

Meghan Markle’s Role

While Prince Harry has reportedly come forward with these revelations, sources close to the family indicate that Meghan Markle has remained supportive throughout the process. Meghan, always a protective mother, has focused on ensuring that Archie and Lilibet grow up in a secure and loving environment, far from the pressures of the royal spotlight.

The couple’s relationship is said to have grown even stronger in the face of such challenges. “Meghan is everything to me,” Harry shared. “Together, we’ve built a life for our children that isn’t based on titles or bloodlines, but on love and unity.”

The Public’s Reaction

The world is no stranger to shocking royal revelations, but this one may top them all. Fans of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have expressed their support, emphasizing that love is what truly defines a family. Social media has been abuzz with messages of encouragement for the couple, with many praising Harry’s openness and honesty.

Conclusion

While the news of Archie’s paternity may be shocking, Prince Harry’s response speaks volumes about his character and priorities as a father. The love he has for his children, regardless of DNA, shows that family is about more than biology – it’s about unconditional love and support. As the royal family continues to navigate these changes, one thing remains clear: Prince Harry’s bond with Archie is stronger than ever.

Olympian Sir Chris Hoy has bravely shared his battle with terminal cancer, telling fans he has between two and four years to live

Sir Chris Hoy stunned the sporting world last night as he revealed the cancer diagnosis he had previously shared is terminal.

The six-time Olympic gold medalist said that he is expected to live between two and four years. After going to a doctor with a pain in his shoulder he believed was a gym injury, the father-of-two was told he had prostate cancer which had metastasised to tumours in his shoulder, pelvis, hip, spine and ribs.

Doctors told Chris, 48, it was stage 4 cancer. “And just like that, I learn how I will die,” Chris pens in his bombshell new book.

Heartbreakingly, Chris also reveals that his wife Sarra has since been diagnosed with an aggressive form of Multiple Sclerosis in an earth-shattering double blow for the family.

Just months after Chris learned his fate, Sarra’s GP ordered a scan to investigate a tingling sensation in her face and tongue. Sarra was given her results in November, but didn’t tell her husband until December that it could be MS.

In an extract of his new book All That Matters, shared with The Times this weekend, Chris writes: “It was. Another scan just before Christmas confirmed that Sarra had “very active and aggressive” MS and needed urgent treatment.

“It’s the closest I’ve come to, like, you know, why me? Just, what? What’s going on here? It didn’t seem real. It was such a huge blow, when you’re already reeling. You think nothing could possibly get worse. You literally feel like you’re at rock bottom, and you find out, oh no, you’ve got further to fall. It was brutal,” said Chris.

Sarra had a choice between more potentially effective but riskier new treatments and low-risk but less effective options, the couple have chosen the latter.

Sir Chris Hoy and his wife Sarra are supporting each other through a difficult time for their family
Chris said on her worst days Sarra now struggles to put a key in the door, but refuses to be down about the diagnosis. “She says all the time, ‘How lucky are we? We both have incurable illnesses for which there is some treatment. Not every disease has that. It could be a lot worse.’ ”

Unlike Chris’ illness, where the couple made the decision to tell their children directly about the cancer, their daughter and son know nothing about Sarra’s MS.

“I never want to lie to them. But there are certain things you don’t need to tell them straight away,” said dad Chris. Sarra, 40, worked as a senior lawyer before the couple, who married in Edinburgh in 2010, had their two children, Callum, nine, and Chloe, six.

The former track cyclist also admitted that many of his and Sarra’s friends are yet to have been told about her diagnosis, but he was prepared to have discussions now that his tell-all book has been made public this weekend.

The star said he planned to cope by putting his phone away until he was ready to speak.

Chris’ revelations this weekend comes after he first revealed his cancer back in February. He has now revealed he was ‘forced’ to do so after being told someone was going to leak the news before him.

Olympic Cycling gold medallist Sir Chris Hoy takes part in the London 2012 Victory Parade for Team GB ( 
Image:
Getty Images)
While Chris had been honest shared his cancer diagnosis before, he did not share that it was terminal until now. At that time, Hoy said he was “going really well” and was “optimistic, positive and surrounded by love for which I’m truly grateful” after his diagnosis in 2023.

Viewers last saw Chris on screen as a pundit for the BBC covering the Paris 2024 Olympics in the summer.

During his career on the track, he won six Olympic gold medals, 11 world championships and 34 World Cup titles by the time he retired from competitive racing in 2013. Only his former team-mate Sir Jason Kenny has won more Olympic gold medals for Great Britain.

Edinburgh-born Chris took up cycling at the age of 14 and won his first Olympic medal, a team sprint silver, at Sydney in 2000.

He followed that up by winning gold in the 1km track time trial at Athens in 2004. He added to his gold medal haul by winning three more at Beijing four years later and two at London 2012.

Chris was knighted in the 2008 New Year Honours List after his success at the Beijing Olympics.

Liam Payne’s fans have launched a petition calling for new laws to protect musicians’ mental health.

The campaign, which has already gathered over 17,000 signatures and aims to reach 25,000, is calling for government intervention to ensure the mental wellbeing of performers. This includes regular mental health check-ups, designated rest periods and ongoing support throughout their careers. The tragic death of Liam Payne, who fell from a hotel balcony in Argentina, sparked the petition.

The hotel had previously called the police about “an aggressive man who may have been under the effects of drugs and alcohol” around 5pm. When emergency services arrived, they found a body outside. This incident has led to an outcry among Liam’s fans for better care for artists.

It is stated in the petition : “The entertainment industry, acclaimed for its glamour and stardom, is equally infamous for the enormous pressure it exerts on the mental health of artists. Resultant issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, substance misuse and even suicide are alarmingly high,” reports OK!.

The campaign, which has already gathered over 17,000 signatures and aims to reach 25,000 ( 
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Getty Images)

It goes on to say: “According to research, performers are 2-3 times more likely to suffer from these issues compared to the general population.” The petition ends by urging lawmakers to create legislation that protects the mental health of artists within the industry.

The petition concluded with a heartfelt appeal: “Such a law would necessitate regular mental health check-ups, adequate rest periods, and the presence of mental health professionals on-set, including any ongoing support during their career. It will ensure a healthier, safer, and more conducive working environment for artists to cultivate their talents reducing phycological distress.”

They also implored: “Your signature could be a lifeline for these talented individuals, contributing to a larger movement on mental health awareness and care in industries worldwide. Please, sign the petition.” The plea continued: “Such a law would necessitate regular mental health check-ups, adequate rest periods, and the presence of mental health professionals on-set, including any ongoing support during their career. It will ensure a healthier, safer, and more conducive working environment for artists to cultivate their talents reducing phycological distress.”

“Your signature could be a lifeline for these talented individuals, contributing to a larger movement on mental health awareness and care in industries worldwide. Please, sign the petition.” Not only have fans set up a petition, but they’ve also left flowers and candles outside the hotel where he tragically passed away. Liam’s father, Geoff Payne, has since flown to Argentina to see the tribute.

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The comedian’s on course to become the first winner in the show’s history not to take part in the live UK tour in 2025

Strictly Come Dancing’s Chris McCausland has cemented his position as the favourite to lift the glitterball trophy – but his soaraway success is causing BBC bosses a headache, because he can’t do the live UK tour.

A clash with his own stand-up dates means that if Chris does triumph in the 2024 series – and the bookies currently have him as the 9/4 favourite – he would be the first winner in the show’s history not to take his dancing shoes on the road afterwards. The problem lies with the comedian’s show, Yonks, which has dates throughout January and February that clash directly with Strictly’s live theatre show.

But his absence would prove a blow for fans because dad-of-one Chris, who has been blind since his 20s, has proven to be the stand-out star of the series. It also calls into question Craig Revel Horwood’s assurance that the BBC Studios-backed tour, which charges between £35 and £100 per ticket, will allow fans to see “their favourite celebrities and dancers up close and personal.”

One source said: “Craig has suggested that all this year’s favourites will be there but that’s not true. How can Chris be in two places at once? As things stand, Chris can’t do it because every show on his comedy tour from January 17 clashes.”

This morning Ladbrokes said that the title was the Scouse comedian’s to lose. Chris, 47, is currently positioned as the firm 4/9 favourite with Tasha Ghouri next in line with odds of 4/1, followed by Sarah Hadland at 10/1 and Jamie Borthwick at 16/1. A spokeswoman said: “Chris McCausland seems to be running away with the competition this year after he extended his lead at the head of the Strictly betting. Tasha is his main rival as things stand, but punters only see one winner.”

Their success with last night’s waltz came a week after they got a standing ovation for their salsa to Men at Work’s Down Under ( 
Image:
PA)
On Saturday Chris, partnered with Aussie pro Dianne Buswell, wowed viewers and judges with his emotional waltz to Liverpool FC’s anthem You’ll Never Walk Alone, clinching 35 points, his best score yet. The dad-of-one, 47, finished third on the leaderboard and left many viewers in tears as he performed a solo walk through the ballroom before being dramatically scooped up by Dianne for the song’s climax.

Afterwards the judges lavished praise on his “flow” around the floor with tearful Shirley Ballas telling him: “Your footwork was spectacular.” Anton du Beke agreed, declaring: “I had a moment where I welled up’. And Motsi Mabuse gushed: “It transcended technique, I felt every emotion.”

In a statement last month confirming the return of the Strictly live event for 2025, hosted once again by It Takes Two’s Janette Manrara, Craig declared: “Strictly fans are in for a huge treat on the live tour – it’s going to be bigger and better than ever before. Audiences will be able to enjoy all of the glitz and glamour of the TV show and see their favourite celebrities and dancers up-close and personal. And with Motsi joining us for the first time, it’s going to be even more FAB-U-LOUS!”

The Strictly Live Tour claims to capture “all the joy” of the TV series while also promising to give audiences “the chance to experience everything they love about the TV show live on stage.” It first launched in January 2009 with 2008 winner Tom Chambers among the line-up, and every winner since has taken part.

The only one to miss out was Bill Bailey because the 2021 tour was cancelled due to the pandemic. Those to have participated in recent years include Ellie Leach, Hamza Yassin, Rose Ayling-Ellis, Kelvin Fletcher, Stacey Dooley and Joe McFadden. Prior to them came Ore Oduba, Jay McGuinness, Caroline Flack, Abbey Clancy, Louis Smith, Harry Judd, Kara Tointon and Chris Hollins.

Last night a spokesman for the tour said: “Casting for the Strictly Live Tour 2025 is still being decided.” He added that an official announcement about the celebs and pro dancers taking part next year will be made before Christmas.

Brenda Edwards’ Loose Women co-stars have shown their support following the tragic loss of her son Jamal, with many taking to social media to share tributes, memories and photographs of the young entrepreneur who died on Sunday morning

Brenda Edwards’ friends and Loose Women co-stars have rallied around her after the tragic death of her son Jamal Edwards.

Charlene White was one of the first to take to Twitter after the shock news emerged with a moving tribute to her close friend’s eldest child.

“Your light shone so brightly that it touched so many of us, impacted the lives of many more, and changed the game forever. And, you are my Brenda’s son,” penned the ITV newsreader.

“There are no words to describe her heartbreak, our heartbreak, now that your light has gone. Sometimes life is terribly unfair,” added Charlene.

Brenda’s Loose Women co-stars are rallying around to support her

Jamal was just 31 when he suffered a short and sudden illness ( 
Image:
Jamal Edwards/Instagram)

Denise Welch also paid her respects and offered her condolences to Brenda during this difficult time.

The 63-year-old TV star also took to Twitter and penned a moving message, which read: “My heart aches for my friend Brenda. I can’t bear it. Jamal Edwards was a wonderful son and brother.”

Former Loose Women star Saira Khan also reached out.

Posting on her Instagram story, Saira penned: “I have just heard the heartbreaking news that @jamaledwards has died.

“I am devastated for @brendaedwardsglobal and send her and her whole family my prayers and deepest sympathies.

She continued: “I met @jamaledwards whilst filming a children’s show and was struck by his humility and passion to help kids to believe in their talents.”

Before concluding with: “R.I.P. young man. You were a bright shining light here on earth. now you will shine brightly in the sky.”

Christine Lampard was also among the Loose Women co-stars to pay tribute to Jamal, and did so on Monday morning by posting a photo of her husband Frank with the late entrepreneur.

She wrote alongside the snap: ” Utterly devastated. The most remarkable young man. @brendaedwardsglobal we are here for you and your family at this terrible time.”

Star of Loose Women and This Morning Ruth Langsford also paid tribute to her friend Brenda’s son.

Ruth took to Instagram to share a sweet snap of Jamal and Brenda on the Loose Women panel and wrote: “My heart is breaking for my friend @brendaedwardsglobal after the loss of her amazing son Jamal yesterday.

“I can only imagine her unbearable pain. Grief is the price we pay for love.”

She then added: “The @loosewomen will wrap our arms around her and try to fill her with all the strength we have. My condolences and love to you my darling friend, Tanisha and all your family. RIP Jamal. X.”

The latest star of the popular ITV panel show to send support to Brenda is Judi Love, who shared two photographs of Jamal and wrote a caption to accompany them.

Judi penned: “@jamaledwards If only words could express how you have changed peoples life, making real waves for artist and young people to achieve their dreams.”

She continued: “As busy as you were you still had time for anyone that needed it, for any young person that needed guidance and a role model.

“As much as everyone proud of you and the legacy you’ve left behind, the pain is unreal. Rest Well King. @brendaedwardsglobal my friend I just can’t. I love you so much I’m so sorry, I’m so sorry.”

Brenda’s co-stars’ messages of support come as Brenda herself has released a statement, which reads: “It is with the deepest heartache that I confirm that my beautiful son Jamal Edwards passed away yesterday morning after a sudden illness.

“Myself, his sister Tanisha and the rest of his family and friends are completely devastated. He was the centre of our world.

“As we come to terms with his passing we ask for privacy to grieve this unimaginable loss. I would like to thank everyone for their messages of love and support.”

She concluded: “Jamal was an inspiration to myself and so many. Our love for him lives on, his legacy lives On Long live Jamal Edwards MBE, MBA, PHD.”

Brenda’s statement, which was posted onto the Loose Women Twitter account, confirmed her son’s death was as a result of a “short illness”.

Jamal’s sudden death completely shocked the nation, especially because just three days ago he had posted a throwback snap of himself and pop sensation Ed Sheeran to his Instagram account.

He wrote a special birthday message to the Shivers hitmaker, saying: “Happy Birthday to the OG, Ed. Blessed to have you in my life brother.

cary footage of the aftermath of a huge storm that is battering the UK has shown fires, floods, and damage caused by it.

The Met Office announced Storm Ashley would be arriving in England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland the Republic of Ireland on Sunday morning and has had some devastating consequences throughout the day.One place which has felt the wrath of the storm is Cork city centre, where a fire has started. Cork City Fire Brigade tweeted: “Our crews responded to several minor Storm Ashley incidents including downed electrical cables and a tree down near the Mardyke.” Alongside the tweet is a video of flames on the floor and a knocked-over tree.

Paul O’Brien shared a video of flooding by the coast and the strong winds blowing it around, adding: “Storm Ashley has hit Salthill during high tide this evening. This is the Atlantic at its wildest.” While Sryan Bruen shared footage of extremely choppy waters with an Irish Ferries cruiser in the background. They wrote: Irish Ferries and Stena Line passing by Poolbeg Lighthouse at high tide.”

Plane landing at Dublin Airport during Storm Ashley ( 
Image:
Sky News)

Luke Chambers also took to social media to share a video of his turbulent landing in the UK. He wrote: “Another bumpy one this afternoon feeling every bit of Storm Ashley on the Air Tanker landing into Manchester Airport.”

Waves crash against the harbour wall during Storm Ashley in Porthcawl, Wales ( 
Image:
Getty Images)
Weather maps show the staggering speeds of Storm Ashley as it batters the UK with torrential rain and winds of up to 80mph. Horrid conditions have hit England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, with gales hitting some areas after the Met Office issued a warning of a “danger to life” to some people.

 

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Storm Ashley: Terrifying videos show scale of mega 80mph wind as fire sparked in storm’s wrath

As the rampant Storm Ashley continues to batter the UK with torrential rain and high winds, causing plenty of flooding and damage, terrifying videos show the power of the storm

Paul O’Brien shared a video of flooding by the coast and the strong winds blowing it around, adding: “Storm Ashley has hit Salthill during high tide this evening. This is the Atlantic at its wildest.” While Sryan Bruen shared footage of extremely choppy waters with an Irish Ferries cruiser in the background. They wrote: Irish Ferries and Stena Line passing by Poolbeg Lighthouse at high tide.”

Plane landing at Dublin Airport during Storm Ashley ( 
Image:
Sky News)

Luke Chambers also took to social media to share a video of his turbulent landing in the UK. He wrote: “Another bumpy one this afternoon feeling every bit of Storm Ashley on the Air Tanker landing into Manchester Airport.”

Waves crash against the harbour wall during Storm Ashley in Porthcawl, Wales ( 
Image:
Getty Images)
Weather maps show the staggering speeds of Storm Ashley as it batters the UK with torrential rain and winds of up to 80mph. Horrid conditions have hit England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, with gales hitting some areas after the Met Office issued a warning of a “danger to life” to some people.

Hundreds of flood warnings have also been issued and some roads closed. A yellow weather warning has covered much of the UK and came into place in the early hours of this morning. There was a warning of damage to buildings, power cuts and injuries, and danger to life from the high speed winds.

As the centre of the storm moves north and west, high winds will whip the UK with gusts of up to 80mph in Scotland while Wales is forecast to see gusts of up to 65 mph with similar windspeeds in north west England. The winds are set to get stronger throughout the day before dissipating on Monday.

The Met Office had issued an amber warning for wind today across parts of western and northern Scotland ( 
Image:
Getty Images)
Tens of thousands of homes remained without power on Sunday night after the storm swept across the island of Ireland. The hazardous conditions saw dozens of flights cancelled, including at airports in Dublin and Belfast.

Cars were seen stuck in floodwater on Pitchcroft Carpark in Worcester after the River Severn burst its banks ( 
Image:
Emma Trimble / SWNS)

 

Liam Payne’s ex, Danielle Peazer, reveals the singer’s shocking final text message to her just weeks before his tragic death

Liam Payne‘s girlfriend Danielle Peazer has shares a heartfelt tribute to the star and revealed he contacted her just weeks before his tragic death aged 31.

The One Direction singer plunged 45ft from the third floor into the courtyard of the Casa Sur Hotel in Buenos Aires on Wednesday, prompting a wave of tributes from across the showbiz world.

After saying earlier this week she was ‘not mentally string enough’ to deal with the loss, the model, who dated Liam and off from 2010 until 2012, returned to social media with a lengthy tribute alongside a slew of snaps of them together.

Danielle explained how the singer had contacted her to express his happiness for her after she went on to find love with partner Sonny and welcome daughter Mia, saying she would ‘always cherish’ his kindness.

She penned: ‘Whilst we all take the time to navigate in a world without Liam, it’s important to remember that while he was adored by millions as a world famous musician for the last decade, he was also someone’s son and brother for more than 30 years, a friend to so many and more recently an uncle’.

Liam Payne ‘s girlfriend Danielle Peazer has shares a heartfelt tribute to the star and revealed he contacted her just weeks before his tragic death aged 31

After saying earlier this week she was ‘not mentally string enough’ to deal with the loss returned to social meida with a lengthy tribute

The One Direction singer plunged 45ft from the third floor into the courtyard of the Casa Sur Hotel in Buenos Aires (pictured 2021)

‘His most important role and something he was the most proud of out of all of his monumental successes was that he was a father.

She continued: ‘The thought that there is a now a child growing up without one of their parents is heartbreaking and unfair.

‘To Liam’s son Bear, as well as his parents and sisters, my love, thoughts and strength goes to you. The magnitude of this loss is incomprehensible and I will continue to support you in any way I am able to.’

Before adding: ‘Thank you for teaching me about the importance of setting boundaries, and that I should always protect my heart.

‘Receiving a message from you a couple of weeks ago expressing your happiness for the love I found with Sonny and Mia is something I’ll cherish forever’.

On Saturday Danielle explained she had been taking the last few days to process the news of the star’s death as she penned: ‘In time I will share more, but right now I don’t feel mentally strong enough to face the reality of what’s happened’.

Describing it as a ‘heartbreaking time’, Danielle explained the last few days had been made even more difficult due to negative comments from vicious trolls.

She wrote: ‘Like all of us, I too am grieving, and need to take some time to do that privately.

Danielle dated Liam on and off from 2010 when they both met on the X Factor (pictured 2013)

Danielle explained how the singer had contacted her to express his happiness for her after she went on to find love with partner Sonny and welcome daughter Mia (pictured together)

She penned: ‘Whilst we all take the time to navigate in a world without Liam, it’s important to remember that while he was adored by millions as a world famous musician for the last decade, he was also someone’s son and brother

‘It’s a heartbreaking time, which has already been made so much more challenging due to receiving negative and misinformed comments as well pre conceived judgement from those who don’t personally know me, Liam or anything about out relationship over the last 14 years.’

She concluded: ‘I will be back soon when I’m ready but until then please take care of each other.’

While Danielle referenced the negative abuse she had received, she also thanked people for their supportive messages.

She said: ‘Thank you to anyone who has taken the time to call, text, or DM sending condolences and offering support.

‘I’m so grateful and it’s helped more than you know.’

Danielle, who is now in a relationship and shares daughter Mia with Sonny Jay, dated Liam on and off from 2010 when they both met on the X Factor.

They split in 2012 but were thought to have enjoyed a very brief reconciliation back in 2022.

During an interview in October 2012, Liam admitted he was ‘devastated’ after separating from Danielle.

Her tribute comes after Cheryl also broke her silence on Liam’s death.

The Girls Aloud singer was previously in a relationship with Liam for two years, with the pair welcoming their child, Bear Grey, into the world on March 22, 2017.

Her tribute comes  after Cheryl also broke her silence on Liam’s death. as she shared a picture of the father and his son Bear

The Girls Aloud singer was previously in a relationship with Payne for two years, with the pair welcoming their child Bear Grey into the world on March 22, 2017 (pictured 2018)

The grieving mother took to Instagram on Friday evening telling of her anguish as she tries ‘navigate this earth shattering event’.

Her statement read: ‘As I try to navigate this earth shattering event, and work through my own grief at this indescribably painful time.

‘I’d like to kindly remind everyone that we have lost a human being.

‘Liam was not only a pop star and celebrity, he was a son, a brother, an uncle, a  dear friend and a father to our seven year old son.

‘A son that now has to face the reality of never seeing his father again.’

The pair initially crossed path on the hit talent show in 2008, however it wasn’t until 2016 that their relationship began.

They made their official red carpet debut at Eva Longoria’s Global Gift Gala in Paris in that year, with  Payne paying tribute to Cheryle with a tattoo of her eye on his arm.