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An emotional David Beckham placed his hand on Sven-Goran Eriksson’s coffin as he grieved beside his beloved former England boss, friend and mentor.

Beckham, 49, was among the 600-strong congregation watching the footballing great being laid to rest in his home town of Torsby.

It comes after the ex-Three Lions manager, 76, died in August following a battle against terminal pancreatic cancer.

Beckham, who flew into Sweden on a private jet yesterday, joined mourners including Sven’s ex Nancy Dell’Olio, former England boss Roy Hodgson, and Sven’s family including his 95-year-old father, also called Sven.

His relationship with his former boss was one of the most pivotal and enduring partnerships in English football during the early 2000s.

Marked by mutual respect, loyalty, and defining moments on the pitch, their bond helped shape the England national team during a period of great expectations and near-misses in major tournaments.

Their friendship continued to flourish off the pitch, with the pair remaining close friends up until Eriksson’s passing – with Beckham later sharing a heartbreaking tribute to the late Swede in a video of them laughing together.

During an emotional service at Fryksande Church, football hero Beckham appeared to weep as tributes were read out to the boss who made him England captain for the first time.

Afterwards, a solemn Beckham was seen gently placing his hand on Sven’s casket as the football hero said his final goodbye, before consoling Eriksson’s grieving partner Yaniseth Alcides.

David Beckham appears to wipe away a tear during the funeral for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby today

Former England captain Beckham was among the 600 mourners to attend the funeral service

Afterwards, a solemn Beckham was seen gently placing his hand on Sven’s casket as the football hero said his final goodbye

Beckham joins mourners on their way out of the funeral service honouring Sven-Goran Eriksson this morning

An emotional David Beckham consoles Eriksson’s partner Yaniseth Alcides after the service ended today

Earlier Beckham, who led England under Eriksson at three major international tournaments, hugged the ex-coach’s longtime lover Dell’olio as they arrived at the service.

Many were moved to tears during the poignant ceremony following the sermon read out by priest Ingela Alvskog,

The priest, a friend of Sven’s, said: ‘Sven-Goran was genuinely kind and never deliberately caused problems. He was a loving father, but not good at going shopping! He was not too interested in dancing either, but became quite proficient at the salsa.

‘Sven-Goran was never late. He would rather be five or ten minutes early. Taking it easy on holiday was never his thing. He loved routine and discipline. He loved good food and drink and travelling first class.

‘Sven-Goran was mentally strong, even in adversity. He had a will of iron and never gave up. In spite of his illness Sven-Goran’s last few months have been full of life. He received many tributes from around the world.’

Eriksson’s children Johan and Lina and his 95-year-old father, also called Sven, were in the congregation along with Bengt Berg, a childhood friend who helped Eriksson write his forthcoming book A Beautiful Game.

Other mourners included Eriksson’s partner Yaniseth Alcides, former Liverpool and Sweden footballer Glenn Hysén, former head coach of Sweden Tommy Söderberg and ex-Swedish footballer Thomas Nordahl.

Crowds who gathered outside the church to watch the arrivals from about 8am local time (7am UK time) also saw Andrea Möllerberg, general secretary, and Kim Källström, head of football at the Swedish football federation.

Sven’s former partner Nancy Dell’Olio places her hand on the England legend’s casket at his funeral in Sweden today

A reflective David Beckham, ex-England captain is seen walking out of the service this morning

David Beckham and Nancy Dell’Olio embrace at the funeral for Sven-Göran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby today

David Beckham hugs Nancy Dell’Olio at Fryksände church in Torsby today ahead of the funeral for Sven-Göran Eriksson

David Beckham and Nancy Dell’Olio embrace at the funeral for Sven-Göran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby today

Tord Grip (front left) and David Beckham (front right) leave after the funeral of Sven-Goran Eriksson in Torsby, Sweden, today

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Emotional moment family and friends pay tribute to Sven Goran Eriksson

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s longtime lover Nancy Dell’Olio outside Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden ahead of today’s funeral

David Beckham appears to wipe away a tear during the funeral for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby today

Football legend David Beckham attends Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s daughter Lina, son Johan and father Sven during the funeral of their father in Torsby this morning

The coffin is carried out of the church following Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Former Swedish football player Thomas Nordahl and David Beckham leave the church after the funeral service today

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s children Johan (left) and Lina (second left) arrive for his funeral at Fryksande Church in Torsby today

The funeral service for football coach Sven-Goran Eriksson is taking place at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, today

Yaniseth Alcides, partner of Sven-Göran Eriksson, arrives for the funeral in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s father, also called Sven, arrives at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning for the funeral

Former England manager Roy Hodgson ahead of the funeral of Sven-Goran Eriksson in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Nancy Dell’Olio wipes off tear as she greets Sven’s family at funeral

The coffin of Sven-Goran Eriksson is carried into Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning ahead of his funeral

Former England player David Beckham with daughter of Sven-Göran Eriksson, Lina Eriksson, at the funeral this morning

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s son Johan greets David Dein, former owner of Arsenal, before the funeral in Torsby this morning

Mourners outside the funeral for football boss Sven-Göran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s longtime lover Nancy Dell’Olio outside Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden ahead of today’s funeral

A priest blesses the coffin of the late England football manager Sven-Goran Eriksson during his funeral service today

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s father Sven and son Johan greet each other outside Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Yaniseth Alcides, partner of Sven-Göran Eriksson, touches the coffin at the funeral in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Eriksson’s coffin arrived at Fryksande church at around 7am local time (8am UK), long before the arrival of any of the 600 guests – and a single bell tolled as his body was carried inside.

Ex-England boss Sven-Goran Eriksson, pictured in May 2006

Members of Sweden’s royal family were also expected to have been in attendance, with roads surrounding the church in the small town where Eriksson grew up cordoned off by police.

Among those to arrive early was Bengt Berg, who said: ‘I’m very happy and very sad at the same time. But it’s fantastic to see him returning to his first point. It’s a very curious feeling.

‘He’s one of us and we share his glory. But when he returned here, he was just one of the hot dog eaters.’.

Under Eriksson’s direction, England reached the World Cup quarter-finals in 2002 and 2006, and the last-eight of Euro 2004.

He was England manager for five years, having previously guided Lazio to the Serie A title. He also managed Roma, Fiorentina and Sampdoria in Italy.

After stepping down from the England job, he held managerial posts with Manchester City, Leicester and the Mexico national team.

Nancy Dell’Olio greets Sven-Goran Eriksson’s son Johan on the steps of Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, today

Tord Grip (front left) and David Beckham (front right) leave after the funeral of Sven-Goran Eriksson in Torsby, Sweden, today

Mourners stand outside the church in Torsby for the funeral of former England football manager Sven-Goran Eriksson

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s son Johan and daughter Lina during the funeral of their father in Torsby this morning

The funeral service for football coach Sven-Göran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Singer Charlotta Birgersson during the funeral of Sven-Goran Eriksson in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Former IFK Göteborg footbaler Glenn Holm (left) arrives at the funeral of Sven-Goran Eriksson in Torsby this morning

Mourners outside the funeral for football boss Sven-Göran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

David Beckham at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s daughter Lina ahead of the funeral at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s daughter Lina, son Johan and father Sven during the funeral of their father in Torsby this morning

The funeral service for football coach Sven-Göran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Artist Oscar Magnusson during the funeral of Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

The funeral service for football coach Sven-Göran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Mourners outside the funeral for football boss Sven-Göran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Thomas Wernerson (left), former footballer, and Kjell Pettersson (centre), former coach of IFK Göteborg, arrive this morning

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

A man wearing a IFK Goteborg football kit pays his respects outside the funeral service of Sven-Goran Eriksson today

Yaniseth Alcides, partner of Sven-Göran Eriksson, touches the coffin at the funeral in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Football coach Roger Palmgren arrives for the funeral of Sven-Göran Eriksson in Torsby this morning

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s daughter Lina, son Johan and father Sven during the funeral of their father in Torsby this morning

Mourners outside the funeral for football boss Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Karin Mattsson Weijber (third right), former head of the Swedish National Sports Federation (Riksidrottsförbundet), today

The ringing of a solitary bell on a chill, misty morning in the small, rural Swedish town of Torsby marked the start of Erikkson’s funeral service.

The song Sailing was played on the organ before the iconic 17th century English hymn Amazing Grace – the paean of a former slave trader turned abolitionist – was sung by the congregation in Swedish, with mourners remaining seated throughout.

Alongside pews running along the central aisle, attendees also sat on seats at the front and two balconies on either side, with a small group of accredited photographers located in front of the organ towards the back of the church.

Most mourners are dressed all in black, although some are carrying red roses.

In a sermon delivered in Swedish and then English, the vicars – one male and one female and dressed in white robes – described death as a ‘question mark, not a full stop’.

The male vicar, speaking in English, reflected how a person who is terminally ill may ‘yearn’ for death as a relief from their pain.

But death was described as a ‘ellipsis point used to show a continuation’. He added: ‘After death, there is continuation – it is not the end, but the beginning of something new.’

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s son Johan and daughter Lina during the funeral of their father in Torsby this morning

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Mourners outside the funeral for football boss Sven-Göran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

The funeral service for football coach Sven-Goran Eriksson is taking place at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, today

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s daughter Lina greets guests outside Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, before today’s funeral

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s longtime lover Nancy Dell’Olio outside Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden ahead of today’s funeral

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

The interior of Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning with the coffin before Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Yaniseth Alcides, partner of Sven-Göran Eriksson, arrives for the funeral in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Former England player David Beckham with daughter of Sven-Göran Eriksson, Lina Eriksson, at the funeral this morning

A floral wreath from Tord Grip and his family during the funeral of Sven-Göran Eriksson in Torsby this morning

Mourners outside the funeral for football boss Sven-Göran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral is taking place at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Nancy Dell’Olio greets Sven-Goran Eriksson’s son Johan on the steps of Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, today

A man wearing a IFK Goteborg football kit pays his respects outside the funeral service of Sven-Goran Eriksson today

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Providing some personal reflections, he continued: ‘Today is a day of grief, but also a day of thankfulness. There is much to be thankful for. In time, this thankfulness may fill some of the emptiness that he leaves behind.’

He spoke of the ‘many fine memories’ of Eriksson, including precious time spent at home, which was ‘finer than a five star hotel’. He was described as ‘kind’, while the vicar also reflected on his tendency to wear suits as a child and read detective novels.

He called him a loving father, who ‘was rubbish at shopping’. He was also said to struggle with dancing before becoming ‘proficient at salsa’.

Eriksson was described as ‘never late’ and a lover of routine – rising early for breakfast even on holidays.

He was a big reader and interested in politics, religion and history, although he also admired the finer things in life like wine and travelling first class, the vicar said.

He was said to combine an ‘iron’ will with a humble, considerate demeanour. The vicar described his last few weeks as ‘full of life’ – accompanied with ‘outpourings of love’ – including when he walked onto the pitch with his granddaughter at Anfield.

Former Liverpool and Sweden footballer Glenn Hysén arrives for the funeral of Sven-Goran Eriksson Funeral in Torsby today

A floral wreath from IFK Göteborg during the funeral of Sven-Göran Eriksson in Torsby this morning

Mourners outside the funeral for football boss Sven-Göran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

David Beckham at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Nancy Dell’Olio greets Sven-Goran Eriksson’s son Johan on the steps of Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, today

Former England player David Beckham with daughter of Sven-Göran Eriksson, Lina Eriksson, at the funeral this morning

The coffin of Sven-Goran Eriksson is carried into Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning ahead of his funeral

A floral wreath from IFK Göteborg football team during the funeral of Sven-Göran Eriksson in Torsby this morning

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Yaniseth Alcides, partner of Sven-Göran Eriksson, touches the coffin at the funeral in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

The funeral service for football coach Sven-Göran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Members of the public outside the church ahead of the funeral of Sven-Goran Eriksson in Torsby this morning

Former Swedish footballer Thomas Nordahl ahead of the funeral of Sven-Goran Eriksson in Torsby this morning

Mourners outside the funeral for football boss Sven-Göran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Tommy Söderberg, former head coach of Sweden, ahead of the funeral of Sven-Goran Eriksson in Torsby this morning

A floral wreath from the Lazio ultras during the funeral of Sven-Göran Eriksson in Torsby this morning

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s father, also called Sven, arrives at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning for the funeral

The congregation stood for the Commendation, before a reading from the Gospel of Luke, 20:38 – ‘He is not the God of the dead, but of the living, for to him all are alive.’

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Sven-Goran Eriksson’s final written words are published on the day before his funeral

Following a poem chosen by the family, a song was performed by the female vicar, before a heartfelt solo performance of Candle of the Wind – using similar lyrics to those performed at Princess Diana’s funeral, with ‘England’ substituted at the start of ‘our’ and, later in the song, for the name of the local region.

The reading of the Lord’s Prayer was followed by the singing of the hymn How Great Thou Art, with the voices of the large congregation echoing around the towering whitewashed walls of the church.

Frank Sinatra’s My Way was sung as a solo by a male and female singer, before the relatives walked up towards the altar and placed their flowers on the coffin.

Members of the Eriksson family were seen comforting one another as they bade their final farewell, with some holding back tears.

Mourners were asked to place their own flowers in an area outside the west door so they could be included in the procession.

After standing still for a few brief minutes, the family members made their way back to their seats at the front of the church.

The vicar delivered the final prayer, followed by the blessing.

The song ‘Volare’ was sung by a male soloist to the accompaniment of a grand piano, with a man saying ‘bravo’ at the end – eliciting quiet laughter from some of the congregation.

Afterwards, two guitarists began playing a popular local anthem, before members of a local football club rose from their seats and gathered near the west door.

The football team – acting as pallbearers – walked down the central aisle before lifting up the coffin and carrying it at waist height towards the west door.

Members of the Eriksson family formed in place behind it, with the rest of the congregation invited to follow by the funeral ushers.

Former footballer Glenn Strömberg and TV commentator Niklas Holmgren during the funeral of Sven-Goran Eriksson today

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s longtime lover Nancy Dell’Olio outside Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden ahead of today’s funeral

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s daughter Lina greets guests outside Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, before today’s funeral

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

The funeral service for football coach Sven-Göran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Andrea Möllerberg, general secretary and Kim Källström, head of football at the Swedish football federation, arrive today

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral is taking place at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Arrivals at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning ahead of Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral

Nancy Dell’Olio greets Sven-Goran Eriksson’s son Johan on the steps of Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, today

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s children Johan (left) and Lina (right) arrive for his funeral at Fryksande Church in Torsby today

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Bengt Berg, who helped write Eriksson’s forthcoming book A Beautiful Game, arrives at the church this morning

In his final words in a newspaper column following his death aged 76 from pancreatic cancer, Eriksson wrote: ‘Life is always to be celebrated.’

And that very same spirit was present among the many hundreds of people laying him to rest today in the huge and very public funeral in his hometown in western Sweden.

The sombre atmosphere was accompanied by a sense of thanksgiving for a man who was both a footballing great and a local hero.

Around 600 mourners were packed into Fryksande church, a stately red brick building perched on a hill overlooking the town, with 400 seats reserved for members of the public who queued from early in the morning to get a seat.

By 7.30am local time (6.30am UK) the area remained shrouded in thick fog, with temperatures hovering around 8C (46F). The fog later cleared but conditions remained overcast, although some sun is forecast later.

Among the congregation are the great and the good of world football, including Beckham – a member of the Golden Generation of England stars that Eriksson led for five years.

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s daughter Lina greets guests outside Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, before today’s funeral

Former England manager Roy Hodgson ahead of the funeral of Sven-Goran Eriksson in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

The order of service for the funeral of former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson in his home town of Torsby today

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Nancy Dell’Olio greets Sven-Goran Eriksson’s son Johan on the steps of Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, today

Yaniseth Alcides, partner of Sven-Göran Eriksson, arrives for the funeral in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Arrivals at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning ahead of Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Arrivals at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning ahead of Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s father Sven and son Johan greet each other outside Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s longtime lover Nancy Dell’Olio outside Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden ahead of today’s funeral

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral is taking place at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, today

Yaniseth Alcides, partner of Sven-Göran Eriksson, arrives for the funeral in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Sat the front of the church were Eriksson’s close family including his daughter, Lina and son, Johan, who followed in his father’s footsteps by playing football before going into management.

His 95-year-old father Sven was also in attendance alongside Eriksson’s partner Yaniseth Alcides.

With so many wishing to pay tribute, hundreds more gathered outside the church to watch the proceedings screened live on a big screen.

While the rest of the world knew him as Sven, locals called him by his nickname, ‘Svennis’ – after his younger brother Lars-Erik’s attempt to pronounce his name.

Today, those attending the funeral said he was known around town for his friendly, approachable demeanour.

‘You could just go up to him, say hi, and he would be happy to have a conversation,’ one told MailOnline.

Eriksson’s coffin, which was brought into Fryksande church prior to the arrival of the congregation, was made of light-coloured wood and has been placed at the front of the church topped by a bouquet of white flowers and surrounded by four large candles.

At least ten more floral bouquets were spread around the steps leading up to the altar, while further up were four wreaths, including one bearing the banner of the Lazlo ultras.

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s daughter Lina greets guests outside Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, before today’s funeral

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s father, also called Sven, arrives at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning for the funeral

Arrivals at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning ahead of Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Flowers from Fifa at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning before Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral

Arrivals at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning ahead of Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Arrivals at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning ahead of Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral is taking place at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s son Johan greets guests outside Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, before today’s funeral

Arrivals at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning ahead of Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s son Johan greets guests outside Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, before today’s funeral

The order of service for the funeral of former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson in his home town of Torsby today

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

A series of popular songs were played on the organ as the guests assembled, including Louis Armstrong’s What a Wonderful World, Bridge Over Troubled Water and Yesterday by the Beatles.

Following the service, Torsby’s brass band will lead his coffin along the 700 yard walk from Fryksände church to the Kollsberg homestead, where friends and family will pay a more intimate tribute.

Prior to his death, Eriksson had publicly spoken of his wish to be buried at the spot, returning to the area for an Amazon Prime documentary and sharing his emotional connection to the area.

‘A beautiful place, it makes you calm, makes me calm,’ he said.

‘If you look straight on, that’s Torsby, where I grew up. I always thought great place, to sleep. The ashes could be thrown into the water here. It feels like home.’

The ‘New Orleans style’ procession is inspired by the colourful 1993 public funeral of Sampdoria president and owner Paolo Mantovani’s in Genoa, which Eriksson attended when he was a coach there and included jazz music.

The funeral has been hailed as the ‘biggest ever’ in the town’s history and preparations have been thorough, with the band’s conductor calculating that the route will take exactly 14 minutes so he can plan how many pieces of music he needs.

The interior of Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning with the coffin before Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral

Arrivals at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning ahead of Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral

Yaniseth Alcides, partner of Sven-Göran Eriksson, arrives for the funeral in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s father, also called Sven, arrives at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning for the funeral

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s daughter Lina greets guests outside Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, before today’s funeral

Former Liverpool and Sweden footballer Glenn Hysén arrives for the funeral of Sven-Goran Eriksson Funeral in Torsby today

Photogaphers outside the church ahead of the funeral of Sven-Goran Eriksson in Torsby this morning

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s longtime lover Nancy Dell’Olio outside Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden ahead of today’s funeral

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s father Sven and son Johan greet each other outside Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

The interior of Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning with the coffin before Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s son Johan greets guests outside Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, before today’s funeral

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral is taking place at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Arrivals at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning ahead of Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral is taking place at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Arrivals at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning ahead of Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral

The screen outside Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, displays a picture of Eriksson ahead of the funeral this morning

Arrivals at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning ahead of Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral

The interior of Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning with the coffin before Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s father, also called Sven, arrives at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning for the funeral

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Born in Sunne just a half an hour journey away, Eriksson grew up in the small town of 4,000 people, before playing for local football team Torsby IF from 1964 to 1971.

The cosy, sleepy place would of course be the springboard for far greater success, with the mild-mannered Swede enjoying a stellar career taking in club giants including Roma and Lazio before coaching the Three Lions, Manchester City and Leicester.

Eriksson had tipped England for future tournament success in a final column for the Daily Telegraph earlier this summer, which his family permitted to be published ahead of his funeral.

‘Writing a piece about death of course makes you reflective. Everything went too quickly! Where did life go? But one thought always comes to the front of my mind: it has been a dream. One of the best jobs you can have in the world is to be a football manager,’ Eriksson wrote.

‘Being appointed as the England manager was a huge honour, perhaps the highlight of my career. When I was asked if I wanted the job, I didn’t believe it. It was one of the happiest days of my life. The job is impossible to refuse. There were many highs.

‘If I had ever lifted a World Cup with England, I would have collected the trophy and then retired. It would have been perfect. Sooner or later England will win a big trophy and I think it could happen very quickly. There is such huge quality in that team.’

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s longtime lover Nancy Dell’Olio outside Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden ahead of today’s funeral

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s children Johan (left) and Lina (second left) arrive for his funeral at Fryksande Church in Torsby today

The screen outside Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, displays a picture of Eriksson ahead of the funeral this morning

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s children Johan (left) and Lina (second left) arrive for his funeral at Fryksande Church in Torsby today

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s son Johan greets guests outside Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, before today’s funeral

The screen outside Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, displays a picture of Eriksson ahead of the funeral this morning

Arrivals at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning ahead of Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s son Johan ahead of today’s funeral at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral is taking place at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, today

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s children Johan (left) and Lina (right) arrive for his funeral at Fryksande Church in Torsby today

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral is taking place at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, today

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral is taking place at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, today

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s children Johan (left) and Lina (second left) arrive for his funeral at Fryksande Church in Torsby today

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s father, also called Sven, arrives at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning for the funeral

Flowers from Lazio at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning before Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral

Arrivals at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning ahead of Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral

David Beckham arrives at the funeral service for Sven-Goran Eriksson at Fryksände church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning

A reporter from Sky Sports speaks ahead of the funeral of Sven-Goran Eriksson in Torsby this morning

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s children Johan (left) and Lina (second left) arrive for his funeral at Fryksande Church in Torsby today

Sven-Goran Eriksson’s father, also called Sven, arrives at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning for the funeral

Arrivals at Fryksande Church in Torsby, Sweden, this morning ahead of Sven-Goran Eriksson’s funeral

Eriksson announced in January his cancer diagnosis and revealed he had at best a year to live, which sparked an outpouring of adulation and resulted in visits to several former clubs in addition to Liverpool, who allowed the lifelong Reds fan to manage their Legends team at Anfield in March.

After he described the experience as beautiful and reflected fondly on ‘fireball’ Wayne Rooney, Eriksson wrote: ‘The response from the public has been wonderful. It gave me energy and positivity. I have cried a lot over the past few months. They have been happy tears, mostly.’I would like people to remember me as a decent coach who tried to do his best. My message to everyone would be: don’t give up. Never give up. Do not give up, is my message for life. And please don’t forget this: life is always, always to be celebrated.’

Victoria Beckham has revealed how her husband David bought a brand new Prada suit just to ‘impress her’ on their first date after she said she liked the brand.

The fashion designer, 50, opened up about the beginning of their relationship in an episode of the new documentary In Vogue: The 90s, which started streaming on Friday on Disney+.

Gushing about her love for designer clothes, she recalled: ‘Versace, Prada, and Gucci, they were my go-to designers. What was it they were getting right at the time? I suppose they really understood the power of celebrity.

‘The Italians embraced that. When I first met David in 1997 he’d heard that I was the Spice Girl that liked the designer clothes.’

The former Spice Girl told the camera: ‘So, after me going to a couple of football matches and I would say, you know, me sort of like, pursuing him, he’d probably say me stalking him, we arranged to go out on a date together.

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Victoria Beckham has revealed how her husband David bought a brand new Prada suit just to ‘impress her’ on their first date

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The fashion designer, 50, opened up about the beginning of their relationship in an episode of the new documentary In Vogue: The 90s, which started streaming on Friday on Disney+(pictured in 2001)

‘He’s like, “I don’t know what to wear, she’s the one who likes designer clothes,” and so he actually went out and bought himself a full Prada look for our first date, to impress me.’

Laughing, she added: ‘Which it did, because it was Prada.’

Elsewhere in the highly-anticipated new documentary, Victoria revealed how she copied Linda Evangelista after becoming ‘completely obsessed’ with the supermodel.

She explained that she became so interested in the 90s icon that she went to the same salon Linda used and even emulated her haircut.

She said: ‘[Linda] was the reason why I cut my hair, the reason why I dyed my hair lots of different colours. I was in New York, and I went to Garren, who was Linda’s hairdresser.

‘When he cut all my hair off. I was channeling my inner Linda.’

In the revealing six-part series, more serious scenes saw Kate Moss opened up about the abuse she received by worried mothers.

The supermodel, 50, who became the poster girl for the trend in the Nineties, said that people would approach her in the street and accuse her of promoting ­eating disorders.

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The former Spice Girl told the camera: ‘So, after me going to a couple of football matches and I would say, you know, me sort of like, pursuing him, he’d probably say me stalking him, we arranged to go out on a date together’

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The fashion designer, 50, and the former footballer, 49 met in 1997 after ‘Posh Spice’ attended one of David’s Manchester United matches with Mel C

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She explained that she became so interested in the 90s icon that she went to the same salon Linda used and even emulated her haircut (pictured in 2008)

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Victoria explained that she became so interested in the 90s icon that she went to the same salon Linda used and even emulated her haircut (Linda pictured in 2008)

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She said: ‘[Linda] was the reason why I cut my hair, the reason why I dyed my hair lots of different colours. I was in New York, and I went to Garren, who was Linda’s hairdresser.’

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In the revealing six-part series, Kate Moss, 50, opened up about the abuse she received by worried mothers over their daughters’ health (pictured in June 2024)

She told the Disney+ documentary: ‘Parents would come up to me and say, “My daughter’s anorexic”. It was awful.

‘I think because I was just skinny, and people weren’t used to seeing skinny. But if I’d been more buxom, it wouldn’t have been such a big deal. It’s just that my body shape was different from the models before me.’

The documentary also speaks to former Vogue editors including Edward Enninful and celebrities such as supermodel Naomi Campbell, actress Gwyneth Paltrow and Sex And The City star Sarah Jessica Parker.

It also features designer Stella McCartney who revealed the advantage she had being the daughter of The Beatles star Paul.

Describing her graduation show from Central St Martin’s fashion school in London, Stella recalled: ‘All the other students were choosing their models, then they were getting their mates. I had mates, but my mates were the supermodels.

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The show also speaks to former Vogue editors including Edward Enninful and celebrities such as supermodel Naomi Campbell

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The documentary In Vogue: The 90s is a star-studded look at the fashion industry during the decade

Disney+ goes behind the scenes of Vogue 90s fashion in bold series

‘I was like, ‘Everyone’s gonna hate me if I do that…’ but life’s too short, and they were genuinely my mates.

‘Those girls were the hottest girls on the planet. They were doing every show in every city, and they did a little college fashion show, for me. That was amazing.’

Disney+ documentary In Vogue is showcasing rare, never-before-seen archives from key figures in the industry and reveal the untold story of the decade’s most celebrated pop cultural moments and movements.

Other contributors will include designers Tom Ford, Marc Jacobs and Jean Paul Gaultier, actress Claire Danes, models Amber Valetta and Tyson Beckford, director Baz Luhrmann and politician Hillary Clinton.

The new series was announced by The Walt Disney Company EMEA at the Edinburgh TV Festival last year.

Ever wondered how Victoria and David Beckham have managed to keep their marriage fresh? Well look no further – the answer’s been hiding in plain sight all along.

Indeed, notorious over-sharer  Victoria has given fans an insight into her love life with husband David on numerous occasions during their 25-years of marriage.

The former Spice Girl celebrated her silver wedding anniversary with retired Manchester United and England footballer David, 49, with whom she parents’ four children, in July.

And she has previously shared some of the intimate gestures that have helped keep their marriage alive in a series of candid interviews.

Reflecting on her husband’s sex symbol status, she told Allure: ‘I’m getting into bed with David Beckham every night, so, you know, there’d be something wrong if I said, “sleep.”‘

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Ever wondered how Victoria and David Beckham have managed to keep their marriage fresh? Well look no further – the answer’s been hiding in plain sight all along

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Indeed, notorious over-sharer Victoria has given fans an insight into her love life with husband David on numerous occasions during their 25-years of marriage

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David and Victoria pose for a holiday snap during a romantic trip to Portofino in 2997

Victoria, 50, also admitted she does her best to wear as little as possible when the lights go out, adding: ‘I tend to wear nothing, but David bought me these little sets from Agent Provocateur.’

The former Spice Girl also admitted their former Hertfordshire home – dubbed Beckingham Palace by the couple – set the tone for their raunchy antics.

‘There’s a room like a tart’s boudoir, with leopard print everywhere and a mirrored ceiling,” she revealed.

‘Then there’s our bedroom, which is quite virginal and white, with a big four-poster, old-oak bed.’

In 2008, nine years after their lavish wedding ceremony at 15th century Luttrellstown Castle in Ireland, the fashion designer praised her husband’s physique while he modelled underwear for Emporio Armani.

‘I still have a really good sex life with David,’ she told Allure. ‘He is very much in proportion.

‘He does have a huge one, though. You can see it in the advert. It’s all his. It’s like a tractor exhaust pipe!’

And during an appearance on US talk show The View, Victoria – who famously refers to her husband as Golden Balls – insisted there was still plenty of physical chemistry between them.

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The former Spice Girl celebrated her silver wedding anniversary with retired Manchester United and England footballer David, with whom she parents’ four children, in July

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The couple met in 1997 after ‘Posh Spice’ attended one of David’s Manchester United matches with Mel C

Posh and Becks squeeze into wedding outfits after 25 years

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Victoria has previously shared some of the intimate gestures that have heled keep their marriage fresh in a series of candid interviews

‘Obviously he’s incredibly good looking,’ she told the panel.  ‘But David is the most wonderful husband and fantastic father, a real inspiration to all of us.

‘He’s hard-working. I’m lucky to have him as my soulmate.’

More recently, Victoria revealed how David bought a brand new Prada suit just to ‘impress her’ on their first date after she said she liked the brand.

The fashion designer opened up about the beginning of their relationship in an episode of the new Disney + documentary In Vogue: The 90s.

Discussing her love for designer clothes, she recalled: ‘Versace, Prada, and Gucci, they were my go-to designers. What was it they were getting right at the time? I suppose they really understood the power of celebrity.

David Beckham takes wife Victoria out for a caviar breakfast

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Victoria Beckham has revealed how her husband David bought a brand new Prada suit just to ‘impress her’ on their first date

‘The Italians embraced that. When I first met David in 1997 he’d heard that I was the Spice Girl that liked the designer clothes.’

She added: ‘So, after me going to a couple of football matches and I would say, you know, me sort of like, pursuing him, he’d probably say me stalking him, we arranged to go out on a date together.

‘He’s like, “I don’t know what to wear, she’s the one who likes designer clothes,” and so he actually went out and bought himself a full Prada look for our first date, to impress me.’

Laughing, she added: ‘Which it did, because it was Prada.’

In a stunning turn of events, Meghan Markle is reportedly fuming after King Charles made the controversial decision to remove Prince Harry from his role as a councillor of state.

This quiet yet significant change, enacted through the Councillors of State Act 2022, has sparked intense reactions from the Duchess of Sussex, who has not held back in expressing her discontent.

The councillors of state play a crucial role, stepping in to perform royal duties when the monarch is unable to do so.

In a stunning turn of events, Meghan Markle is reportedly fuming after King Charles made the controversial decision to remove Prince Harry from his role as a councillor of state.

This quiet yet significant change, enacted through the Councillors of State Act 2022, has sparked intense reactions from the Duchess of Sussex, who has not held back in expressing her discontent.

The councillors of state play a crucial role, stepping in to perform royal duties when the monarch is unable to do so.

This includes attending privy council meetings and signing official documents.

Traditionally, this position has been reserved for the monarch’s spouse and the first four successors over the age of 21.

However, recent changes have altered the landscape, now limiting the role to only working members of the royal family.

This shift has left Prince Harry out in the cold, especially following his decision to step back from royal duties.

The exclusion stems from concerns surrounding Prince Andrew’s association with Jeffrey Epstein, which has further complicated the eligibility criteria for councillors.

Meghan is reportedly furious about this development, issuing stern warnings to King Charles in hopes of restoring her husband’s position.

An insider close to the Sussexes revealed that Meghan is not just upset; she is determined to fight for Harry’s reappointment.

She fears that this change could hinder Harry’s ability to support the king during critical times, potentially jeopardizing the security of the royal family.

Her anger is palpable, as she perceives this move as a direct attack on Harry’s standing within the royal household.

Despite Meghan’s efforts, the monarchy appears firm in its decision.

A palace representative emphasized that the modifications were made to enhance the efficiency of royal operations.

The role of councillors of state is vital, and ensuring that these duties are performed by fully engaged members of the family is seen as essential for maintaining the monarchy’s integrity.

The decision to limit this role to active royals was not taken lightly.

It reflects a broader strategy to streamline royal functions and ensure that those in positions of authority are fully committed to their responsibilities.

This careful consideration underscores the importance of stability and effective governance within the monarchy.

While Meghan’s frustration is understandable, the monarchy’s leadership is focused on what they believe to be the best path forward.

They argue that such decisions are made with the long-term health of the institution in mind, balancing the needs of the royal family with public expectations.

As tensions rise, it remains to be seen how this situation will unfold.

Meghan’s determination to challenge the decision highlights her unwavering commitment to her husband and their place within the royal framework.

Yet, the palace’s steadfastness suggests a significant rift may be forming between the Sussexes and the rest of the royal family.

This episode serves as a reminder of the complexities inherent in royal life, where personal feelings often clash with institutional protocols.

The stakes are high, and both sides are poised to defend their positions vigorously.

Ultimately, the future of Prince Harry’s role within the monarchy hangs in the balance, with Meghan leading the charge for change.

Former Love Island star Olivia Attwood has hit out at the ‘misogynistic’ rumours behind her I’m A Celebrity exit after learning of them on social media once she was given her mobile phone back

Olivia Attwood has spoken out for the first time since her shock early exit from this year’s I’m A Celebrity, which left viewers confused and speculating over the reason for her departure.

The former Love Island star hit out at one such rumour – that she was pregnant – describing the false claim as ‘misogynistic’.

Within 24 hours of jumping out of a helicopter alongside radio DJ Chris Moyles and carrying out her first challenge in the jungle alongside Loose Women’s Charlene White, the 31-year old found herself being rushed to Aussie A&E by concerned doctors and ITV staff.

Speaking to Mail Online, Olivia said the drama came about as a result of a routine blood test, which all campmates undergo randomly throughout the course of the show.

And unfortunately for Olivia her test showed she was dangerously anaemic, as well as having low sodium and potassium levels, which sadly aren’t conducive to jungle life.

A blood test showed the former Love Islander was ‘dangerously anaemic’ ( 
Image:
ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
“The results were really, really low when they put them into their reader and they consulted with another doctor off site,” she explained. “I had those bloods done in England before I left, and they were fine. I was confused and of course very, very worried.”

She added: “I was so scared, I was like “what the hell is wrong with me?’. ‘They couldn’t give me an answer, they just told me that they had to get me to the hospital immediately.”

Despite all of this Olivia said she was feeling ‘fine’.

What she wasn’t fine about, however, was the immediate aftermath in which several incorrect rumours began to circulate on social media.

One suggested Olivia’s ADHD – which she was diagnosed with several years ago – would affect her ability to live in camp.

Another suggested that by visiting hospital she had broken a Covid bubble and it wouldn’t be safe for her to reunite with her fellow contestants.

Rumours she was ‘too weak’ and pregnant infuriated Olivia ( 
Image:
James Gourley/REX/Shutterstock)

ITV bosses felt a return to camp could prove detrimental to her health and wellbeing if levels in her blood dropped again ( 
Image:
James Gourley/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
But the star was really riled by rumours she described as ‘misogynistic’ that she’d realised she was too weak for the show or that she was pregnant.

After repeating her blood tests in Australia, results came back fine paving the way for her return – or so she thought.

Instead ITV bosses took her to a hotel to get some rest, leaving her confused whilst staff discussed what would happen next.

Unfortunately a knock on her room’s door the next morning by a producer led to the news that the broadcaster wasn’t willing to risk her return on the grounds that if her low levels dropped again ‘it could be detrimental to her health and wellbeing’. And as ITV wasn’t willing to authorise her return, she couldn’t be insured.

Distraught, Olivia flew back to England to be with family and her Blackburn Rovers footballer boyfriend Brad Dack. Prior to the flight she was given her phone back and she began to read about what the I’m A Celeb audience was speculating about her exit, much of which, she says, felt misogynistic.

“I mean, I saw on Twitter that I was pregnant. I’m not. There is an underlying misogynistic feel to the rhetoric,” she explained.

“They’re saying, ‘I bet she fainted’ or ‘I bet she was scared of sleeping outside’ or that ‘she didn’t fancy it because it was raining’. The reason it was so frustrating is because I am the complete opposite of that – and to make it more irritating, people could see on the show that I was absolutely loving it.

“There was nothing I would have said no to in the jungle. I loved it from the first hour and I was embracing every moment of it. I’m a nature geek, so I loved seeing all the bugs, and I even saw a kangaroo.”

Stacey Solomon has said that she was conflicted over Matt Hancock being on I’m A Celebrity. Stacey and her husband Joe Swash have both won the ITV series, but she said that she was unsure whether or not she would stay in camp if she was in this year

Stacey Solomon has called Matt Hancock’s presence on I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! a “kick in the face”.

Joining her Loose Women co-hosts, Stacey waded into the debate over whether the former health secretary should have accepted the gig in the first place.

She hit out at the politician for ignoring the social distancing guidelines that he had implemented, and the excuse he made on the show for discarding them.

During last night’s show, Babatunde Aleshe asked Matt how he’s been and after the MP confessed that it had been tough, he added: “Because you messed up”.

“I messed up and I fessed up,” Matt replied, “before adding that he ‘fell in love’”.

Stacey Solomon says that she understands why camp mates feel uncomfortable ( 
Image:
ITV)
“You didn’t just fall in love, you were grabbing the booty,” Babatunde laughed.

But Stacey wasn’t impressed with this and explained to the audience how she couldn’t understand why people cheat.

“He’s sitting there, I dunno, like I love my grandma, I didn’t get to see her for two and a half years and I wasn’t snogging her,” she fumed.

Stacey said that everyone has their reasons for going on the show ( 
Image:
ITV)
“I almost feel like it’s a bit of a kick in the face,” the mum-of-four added.

She wasn’t alone in her thoughts on the matter after Carol McGiffin said she was “disgusted” that he was on the ITV primetime show.

Responding to Nadiya’s claims that he was a “hapless fool”, Carol said: “He’s not a fool. He’s doing a party political broadcast still, while he’s in there.

“It shouldn’t be allowed. I’m disgusted that he’s in there. I’m absolutely disgusted.”

Carol has refused to watch it until Matt is voted off.

“I totally get where you’re coming from so I don’t think you’re weird,” Stacey told Carol.

Carol replied: “With the Matt thing?”

“I get it, it’s a hard one,” Stacey confessed.

Stacey won the 10th series of the show in 2010, and her husband Joe Swash was also crowned King of the Jungle in 2008.

Kay Adams said that she was impressed by how the contestants handled Matt joining the group, but Stacey was unsure how she would cope if she were in their shoes.

“I don’t know what I’d do if I was a campmate in there,” Stacey said.

“It must be so hard for them this year.

“Some of them have gone in there to boost their careers, some have gone in for money reasons,” she added.

“Whatever reason we decide to do the show for, and you know that is going to be completely dictated by someone else now.”

Earlier this year, Charlene White burst into tears as she recalled burying her aunt during the pandemic, months before she found herself opposite Matt Hancock on I’m A Celeb

I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!’s Charlene White was in tears discussing her aunt’s death during an emotional segment earlier this year.

The 42-year-old and the Loose Women panellists were discussing Boris Johnson’s lockdown parties following his apology in January.

She told Linda Robson, Nadia Sawalha and Carol McGiffin about the day she had to bury her beloved aunt.

Discussing the tragic moment on the ITV show which aired in January, she said: “My family stuck by the rules. We had to bury family members without being able to hug each other. I had to sit in a crematorium where my aunt was buried.

“Because I wasn’t living in the same household as my brother and sister and my dad, I was in a pew by myself with my baby daughter on my lap as we’re all in floods of tears and we can’t hug each other.”

Charlene opened up about her aunt’s funeral ( 
Image:
ITV)
She cried some more as she explained: “I stood by the graveside as grave diggers were filling that grave and watching my cousin in floods of tears and not being able to hug her because we were following the rules because we didn’t know what else to do.

“We were told we had to follow the rules so we were following the rules with the understanding that those in charge were also doing the same thing.”

Charlene admitted Boris’ decision to attend the event made her rethink her actions that day.

She wished she was able to hug her cousin ( 
Image:
ITV)
“I just think, should I have just hugged my cousin?” she explained through tears, as she added, “If we weren’t all supposed to follow the rules, should have I just hugged my cousin?”

Meanwhile, Charlene is currently taking part in I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! alongside the Chester-born MP.

The broadcaster called Matt out for socialising with somebody outside of his household bubble during the lockdown, which eventually cost him, his job.

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Charlene is currently in the jungle ( 
Image:
ITV/REX/Shutterstock)When Hancock said that it was a “mistake” that he broke his own “guidelines” rather than the law, Charlene hit out saying: “It’s massively bigger than that. My aunt died from Covid in the first wave. So, we couldn’t go to the hospital to go and visit her. I had to sit by myself in the church at her funeral.

“We couldn’t hug each other because we were following guidance. And I get that you fell in love, I understand all of those things, but sorry for a lot of families like mine doesn’t really cut it.”

Matt said: “Yeah. Well, there you go. That’s one of the reasons that I regret it as much as I do.”

 

Carol McGiffin wasn’t at all impressed with Matt Hancock’s decision to join I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here. The Loose Women panellists shared their views on the

Loose Women star Carol McGiffin has said that she’s “disgusted” by Matt Hancock’s decision to join I’m A Celebrity and is refusing to watch the programme.

Last night 9.1million people were glued to the television as the former health secretary stumbled into the camp.

He was joined by comedian Seann Walsh and not long after meeting his campmates, Loose Women’s Charlene White took him aside and questioned his motives.

Nadia Sawalha said how she nearly didn’t watch the programme, but ended up caving and explained how she spent the first five minutes laughing.

“I think part of that was Seann Walsh’s absolute relief that another cheater was with him, so the heat was going to be taken off him.”

Carol McGiffin fumed about Matt Hancock joining the jungle ( 
Image:
ITV)
Seann burst out laughing when he met Matt for the first time, and Nadia said that she thinks his reaction was “almost relief”.

Nadia said how she “couldn’t stop laughing” as she watched the programme, adding that she had “tears rolling down her face”.

But the other panellists didn’t share her opinion on the controversy.

Loose Women’s very own Charlene White had words with Matt ( 
Image:
ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
Carol looked uncomfortable as Nadia talked about how much she enjoyed last night’s episode.

Nadia did add that her opinions changed after Charlene stuck some tough questions to Matt, which saw him explain why he thought it was alright to leave parliament because: “Rishi is a really good guy”.

She called Matt an “egotistical hapless fool” and said that it just highlights the hands that the country was in during the pandemic.

The nation was split over their reaction to Matt Hancock ( 
Image:
ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
Carol jumped in and said: “He’s not a fool. He’s doing a party political broadcast still, while he’s in there.

“It shouldn’t be allowed. I’m disgusted that he’s in there. I’m absolutely disgusted.”

Judi Love said that she believes the country can sometimes be tricked into thinking that politicians are “bumbling fools”, but she argued that they are “confident” and “groomed to do this from when they were young”.

Hancock joined camp alongside fellow newcomer, comedian Seann Walsh ( 
Image:
James Gourley/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)She said that they know how to “perform” and she said that she could see how “privileged” Matt was.

The comedian added: “The fact the country is in disaray and we are going through all this stuff like strikes and nurses and what happened in the pandemic and he can sit there, in a show, where he is being paid and still turn around and say “everything is alright”.

“His true self will be shown,” Judi added.

Carol raised her voice: “Oh what, and you haven’t seen it already?”

Nadiya said she had mixed feelings on Matt joining the show ( 
Image:
ITV)
She said: “If he had a shred of decency he wouldn’t have gone in.”

The 62-year-old said that if she was in the jungle she would have walked out.

“I would have said stuff your fee, I’m going. There’s no way I would share that space with that man.

Judi Love wasn’t impressed and said that Matt knew exactly what he was doing and ‘wasn’t a fool’ ( 
Image:
ITV)
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“And I know he’s not solely responsible but he is responsible for a hell of a lot of pain and anguish that people suffered in the last few years.”

“And now everyone is thinking it’s really funny because he’s got a couple of ants crawling on his head.

“It’s ruined,” she added.

TOWIE star Gemma Collins took to Instagram to show off her new short hairstyle to her followers as she teased changes ahead in her life with cryptic message in the caption

Gemma Collins has hinted that she is about to “change her life” after undergoing a sensational hair transformation.

The TOWIE star showed off her new look to her fans on Instagram as she hinted at some other big changes ahead in her life.

Gemma, 41, was gearing up for a glamorous night out at London’s Proud Cabaret with friends as she ditched her trademark long blonde extensions in favour of the sleek bobbed look.

She added a face-framing on-trend fringe to the hairdo, looking dramatically different to how fans are used to seeing her.

Feeling positive about her change of style Gemma captioned the post with a cryptic message about what is coming for her.

Gemma showed off her glamorous new look on Instagram ( 
Image:
Instagram)

Gemma was heading out to Proud Cabaret ( 
Image:
Instagram)
She said: “A woman who cuts her hair is about to change her life.”

Gemma showed off her slimmer figure stepping out to Proud Cabaret dressed in a black velvet trouser and wrap blazer co-ord.

She added an eye-catching sexy twist by layering a sheer black lace trimmed lingerie style top underneath the jacket as she grinned while enjoying her night out.

The blonde beauty also opted for a full face of glamorous makeup and added black polish to her fingernails, completing the look with a quilted Chanel mini cross body bag.

Gemma’s striking image change sparked a sea of admiring comments from her followers on the social media app – including many of her famous friends.

The TOWIE star looked dramatically different ( 
Image:
Instagram)

Fans are used to seeing Gemma with long extensions ( 
Image:
Getty Images for Thirty8 London)Essex babe Megan McKenna commented showing her support writing: “Yes yes yes”.

Meanwhile, Sam and Billie Faiers’ mum Suzie Wells also praised Gemma posting: “Love your hair looks beautiful.”

Former Love Island star Laura Anderson then exclaimed: “Omg Gemma I love it.”

Tallia Storm shared in the adoration as she gushed: “Oh my gosh wow! I love it!”

A further slew of celebs including Loose Women’s Judi Love and Gillian McKeith expressed their approval by posting heart and flame emojis.

Gemma has been slimming down steadily

Gemma has been scrimping due to the cost of living crisis
Gemma has recently opened up to her fans about the steps she is taking to save cash amid the cost of living crisis admitting that even the GC isn’t immune to feeling the squeeze in the current financial climate.

Talking on her podcast she said: “The cost of living crisis, yes I have the news on, I try not to but I said I’m going to spend October and November trying to make sensible cutbacks because if you look after the pennies they look after you,” she advised her listeners.

“I have done something with every meal time, I go into my cupboards and make some serious cutbacks like everyone else. It is scary, mortgages are going up, electrics going up. I’m telling everyone not to put the heating on in my house.

“I’m making sure every lights are off, I normally have every TV switched on in the room – not necessarily watching something, but I’d have TV on in one room, music on in the other, but I’ve really been mindful to cut back on all of that.”

Jane McDonald lost her fiancé Eddie Rothe to lung cancer in April 2021. She revealed her niece named her son after him

Jane McDonald revealed her niece named her son after her late fiancé Eddie Rothe.

The singer appeared on Loose Women to discuss life a year on from losing Ed to cancer in April 2021.

She told the panelists that she now has more ‘good days than bad’ and shared the exciting news of her niece’s new addition to the family.

After being questioned about the ‘cute new man in her life’, she revealed: “It’s just so beautiful. I can’t believe it.

“My niece Katie has had a little baby boy and they’ve called him Ed.”

The panelists and audience awed as they shared a snap of the gorgeous baby boy on screen.

Jane’s fiancé Eddie passed away in 2021 ( 
Image:
Dave J Hogan/Getty Images)

Jane’s niece named her newborn baby Ed ( 
Image:
Dave Benett/Getty Images)
Jane continued: “I’m loving it and relishing it and spending time with Katie and Tom, you know, and my family and just seeing this bundle, this new life.”

She was asked whether it was emotional when she discovered her niece was naming her son Ed.

“It was and it was just a credit to how much they thought about him. It’s just a lovely thing to do he’s just got the best name. I just think it’s fabulous.”

Jane met her late fiancé, who was the drummer in The Searchers, at a club in Wakefield in 1980.

The singer, who was 17 at the time, and Eddie got along like a house on fire but they parted after a few months of dating.

They didn’t see each other again until they were reunited in 2008, and they quickly struck up a relationship.

During the same year, Eddie got down on one knee.

She shared the exciting news with fans ( 
Image:
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Speaking about Ed being diagnosed with cancer, she recently explained: “It’s a shock when your partner becomes ill. And it’s just a shock to your system completely. And I think it’s made me realise actually, how many summers have we got left.

“And I want to do so much. I want to go on holiday, instead of filming one. I want to you know, I want to write, I want to be creative. I want to have time in my lovely home.

“You know, and I want to be here for my family. You know, my, my niece is just about to have a baby. And we’re all very excited about that.

” And I want to be around, I want to be around for them all just for a while to like sort myself out and then stop working as much as I do. Because I work constantly.”

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