“He Was the WORST Lover I Ever Had” — Tony Blackburn Affair Claims EXPLODE 50 Years On

Margot Webb told The Mail on Sunday she was fed up with Tony Blackburn’s ‘endless bragging’ about their short-lived relationship

In the mid-1970s, Tony Blackburn was at the peak of his fame — a Radio 1 superstar married to rising television actress Tessa Wyatt, living a seemingly idyllic life in leafy Berkshire.

Seventies DJ, Tony Blackburn previously boasted about of bedding 500 women

Just next door lived another glamorous showbiz couple: actress Margot Webb and her husband Roger, a highly respected musician and songwriter whose work would later soundtrack some of Britain’s best-loved television shows.

The two couples became inseparable neighbours. They played croquet on manicured lawns, hosted swimming pool parties, and shared long summer afternoons surrounded by pets — including three donkeys grazing in the garden.

Margot Webb and DJ Blackburn who had an affair in the 1970s. He claimed Mrs Webb’s husband was having an affair with his wife Tessa Wyatt, which she denied

But behind the relaxed Home Counties façade, a far more complicated story was unfolding.

A ‘Love Square’ — Or Something Else Entirely?

In recent weeks, Blackburn reignited headlines after boasting on a podcast that the four neighbours had become entangled in what he described as a “wife swap” — claiming he slept with Margot while her husband was simultaneously having an affair with Tessa.

An aerial view showing Tony Blackburn’s former home and the Webb’s property

He even likened it to a “Celebrity Wife Swap” decades before the show existed.

But now, Margot Webb, the only other surviving member of that alleged love square, has decided to tell her side of the story — and it sharply contradicts Blackburn’s version.

Speaking exclusively, Margot admits she did have an affair with the DJ. But she dismisses his dramatic retellings as exaggerated, self-serving — and deeply hurtful.

‘He Was the Worst Lover I Ever Had’

Blackburn and Tessa Wyatt in 1972. They were married for five years before divorcing in 1977

Margot, now 77, says she is exhausted by what she calls Blackburn’s “endless bragging” about a relationship that lasted less than a year.

“I haven’t had many lovers,” she says plainly. “But Tony was the worst one I ever had. Wham, bam, thank you, ma’am. He didn’t have a clue.”

A ‘pool party’ hosted by Margot Webb at her and her piano player husband’s home

She adds: “He keeps talking about something that happened 50 years ago. Why? Everyone already knows what he got up to.”

From Convent Girl to Cautionary Tale

At the time, Margot describes herself as shy and naïve — a former convent girl who felt flattered by the attention of a famous man.

Pictured right, Tony Blackburn, playing croquet at one of Ms Webb’s pool parties

“Sleeping with him was always the part of the date I looked forward to least,” she admits.

She insists there was no wife swapping, no orgies, no naked pool parties — despite Blackburn’s colourful claims.

“We had fun, yes. But people wore swimsuits. Children were around. There were donkeys in the garden, not debauchery.”

The Man Behind the Mirror

Blackburn and his ex-wife Tessa with their son Simon petting a goat

Margot paints a far less glamorous picture of Blackburn than the one he has spent decades projecting.

She describes him as vain, insecure and obsessive about his appearance — recalling how he would spend up to an hour in front of the mirror each morning applying mascara to disguise a bald patch.

“He wouldn’t go out in the rain,” she says. “He could be pleasant — but his insecurities made him exhausting.”

While Blackburn nicknamed her “Magnificent Margot,” she privately called him “Noddy,” joking that he resembled a puppet.

“I don’t hate Tony,” she says. “But I am really annoyed with him.”

What Hurts the Most

Blackburn with his son Simon and Margot and her daughter Julia, who later passed away in a car accident aged 34

What angers Margot most is Blackburn’s repeated implication that her husband Roger had an affair with Tessa — a claim both she and Tessa strongly deny.

Blackburn with his former wife Ms Wyatt after they announced their engagement

“Roger was gentle and shy,” she says. “He would hate to be remembered like that.”

Roger died of a brain tumour in 2002. Their daughter Julia was killed in a car accident in 2005, aged just 34.

“All I have left are memories,” Margot says quietly. “I don’t want them tarnished by nonsense designed to make someone else look exciting.”

The End of an Illusion

Margot, a former actress, who told The Mail on Sunday that she was fed up with Tony Blackburn’s ‘endless bragging’ about their short-lived relationship

Margot briefly left her marriage during the affair, believing Roger no longer wanted her — but they ultimately stayed together.

Roger Webb with his wife Margot Webb on holiday in Capri, Italy

Blackburn’s marriage, however, did not survive the decade. He and Tessa divorced in 1977. Tessa later found happiness elsewhere and has long dismissed his claims as untrue.

Now, as rumours swirl that Blackburn may be writing yet another memoir, Margot says she felt compelled to speak.

“I don’t want sympathy,” she insists. “I just want the record set straight.”

“SACK ME IF YOU WANT — I’M NOT BACKING DOWN.” Rylan Clark Torches His ITV Career With Defiant Stand That’s Rocked TV

Rylan Clark has confirmed that his time at This Morning is over—this time for good. After a whirlwind week of controversy, the TV star revealed that his contract with ITV has officially been terminated following the backlash to his explosive remarks on immigration.

In an emotional sign-off, Rylan, 36, told viewers on Friday: “At last, I can finally breathe easy and speak out about those disgusting truths. I have no regrets for speaking up, even if it cost me my career. Thank you, everyone…”

The announcement marks a dramatic end to his stint as stand-in host alongside Josie Gibson, who had been covering for Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard during their summer break. Josie responded on-air with: “What a week!”—but fans had no idea that it would also be Rylan’s last.

The storm began earlier in the week when Rylan clashed with viewers over his take on Reform UK leader Nigel Farage’s mass deportation plans. Speaking live on air, he questioned:

“How come if I turn up at Heathrow Airport as a British citizen and I’ve left my passport in Spain, I won’t be let in? But if I arrive on a boat from Calais, I get taken to a four-star hotel?”

Rylan insisted that he was not against immigration, adding: “This country is built on immigration—legal immigration. They pay tax, they help our country thrive. But illegal routes? That’s something we can’t ignore.”

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He also highlighted what he saw as a growing injustice: “You’ve got people who have lived here all their lives struggling, while others are handed hotels, phones, even iPads. Something major has to change.”

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The remarks instantly divided audiences, with critics accusing him of spreading misinformation about asylum seekers in the UK. Social media erupted, and within hours, calls were mounting for ITV to act.

On X, Rylan fought back, declaring: “You can be pro-immigration and against illegal routes. You can support trans rights and respect women. You can be straight and support gay rights. The list goes on.”

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But by Friday, the damage was done. ITV confirmed behind the scenes that his role would not continue, with insiders revealing that the network and Rylan had “mutually agreed” to terminate his contract.

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Fans reacted with heartbreak. One wrote: “Please keep Rylan and Josie on! They’re the best duo in years.” Another added: “I won’t be watching come next week—he was the only reason I tuned in again.”

The news came just as former host Ruth Langsford teased her own return to the iconic sofa. Speaking to The Mirror, she hinted she’d happily reunite with her “TV son” Rylan:

“I love Rylan. He’s like my son. We’ve worked together before, and I’d do it again in a heartbeat. If ITV asked, I’d be there.”

However, with Rylan’s future at ITV officially closed, fans are now left wondering: could the duo reunite on an entirely new project away from This Morning? Ruth teased that something might already be in the works.

For now, one thing is clear: Rylan Clark is stepping away from daytime  TV on his own terms—louder, prouder, and with no regrets.

This Morning continues weekdays on ITV1 and ITVX—without one of its most outspoken stars.

STRICTLY SHAKE-UP  New Favourites to Replace Tess & Claudia REVEALED — As ‘Flattered’ Amanda Holden Finally Breaks Her Silence

With Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman saying goodbye to Strictly this weekend, speculation has reached fever pitch over who the BBC will name as the show’s new hosts.

Two people it won’t be, though, is Amanda Holden and Alan Carr. They have ruled themselves out of replacing Tess and Claudia as hosts of Strictly Come Dancing. The pair shut down reports that they were in the running to host the BBC dance show on Amanda’s Heart FM Breakfast Show today (December 15).

Their comments came after reports that the BBC has a shortlist of 10 presenters it’s going to chemistry test in the New Year in a bid to find Tess and Claudia’s replacements.
Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly host their last-ever Strictly live show this weekend (Credit: BBC)

Strictly shortlist ‘drawn up’

Reports over the weekend suggested that the BBC had whittled its shortlist of potential Strictly presenters down to 10 household names. The report said Alan, Amanda, Alex Jones, Bradley Walsh, Holly Willoughby, Angela Scanlon, Zoe Ball, Alison Hammond, Rylan Clark and Rob Rinder were all in the running to take over from Tess and Claudia.

However, speaking to Ashley Roberts this morning, Amanda ruled herself and Alan out.

Ashley asked Amanda: “Speaking of jokes, Amanda, because your name has been all over the press. Is it a joke or not that you and Alan Carr are stepping in for Claudia and Tess to host of Strictly Come Dancing?”

She replied: “Oh, do you know, I am so happy you’ve asked me about this. Because as it was pointed out, there was a massive article in the newspaper at the weekend. And there’s lots of people in the mix and there’s a huge picture of me and Alan saying that we’re doing chemistry tests and this and that and auditioning. I want to say now that me and Alan are 100% not doing Strictly.”

Amanda then added: “We are so flattered to be in that mix. We love Strictly, we watch Strictly. Obviously we work for the BBC with the Amanda & Alan show. But we are not doing it. We both are not doing it. I do Britain’s Got Talent and take up a lot of weekends with that. Alan’s career has just blown up even more because of The Traitors. So, yes, take our names off the list because we’re not doing it.”
Alan Carr and Amanda Holden won’t be the new hosts of Strictly Come Dancing (Credit: BBC)

Bookies share odds for new Strictly host

Of the remaining names, bookies at Sports Casting UK place Alex Jones as the frontrunner to take over with odds of 11/4. Bradley Walsh and Holly Willoughby are both at 3/1.

Meanwhile, Zoe Ball – who announced at the weekend she’d left her Radio 2 show – and Angela Scanlon are at 4/1.

Alison Hammond (5/1), Rylan Clark (6/1) and Rob Rinder (13/2) complete the line-up.
Alex Jones is the new favourite to be announced as one of the hosts of Strictly Come Dancing (Credit: BBC)
Sports Casting UK spokesperson Shane Orton exclusively told us: “A reported shortlist of 10 names has emerged to replace Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly, with Alex Jones and Bradley Walsh believed to be among the frontrunners currently under serious consideration by BBC executives.

“However, it would be premature to rule out the pedigree of Holly Willoughby. Meanwhile, Angela Scanlon and Zoe Ball both bring valuable experience and familiarity with Strictly, keeping them firmly in contention.”

Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman host the Strictly final this weekend (December 21). It will be their last-ever live show. Viewers will see the pair back on screens on Christmas Day, hosting the pre-recorded Strictly Christmas Special, though.

BBC CHAOS! Fiona Bruce shut down LIVE on air during a furious Question Time clash after a Rachҽl Rҽҽvҽs blunder — audience gasps as the debate spirals out of control!

Furious Question Time clash erupts as Fiona Bruce shut down over Rachel Reeves blunder

Question Time presenter Fiona Bruce demanded “do not put those words in my mouth” during a furious row as the show debated Rachel Reeves’s “criminal” house renting arrangement. Ms Bruce clashed with Conservative MP and former minister Graham Stuart, after he highlighted the Chancellor’s failure to obtain the required licence before renting out her family home. And the debate broke down into a shouting match, as he then accused Ms Bruce of taking sides, saying she had come to Ms Reeves’s defence.

Mr Stuart said: “The Chancellor of the Exchequer committed a criminal offence in collecting rent for a year without getting a licence. A licence which she first of all said she didn;t know about .. . then it turned out that two agents, not one, had told them they did.” Ms Bruce interrupted, saying: “Hang on, hang on.”

She complained that the show had gone “off the topic”, because guests were meant to be debating the accidental release of a sex offender and whether Justice Secretary David Lammy was responsible.

And the presenter then said: “The estate agent in the case of Rachel Reeves basically said it was our fault.”

But Mr Stuart said that by law, the landlord was responsible, not her estate agent.

And then he added: “How is it that anyone in this audience would be prosecuted for a crime, but if you are the Chancellor of the Exchequer, apparently even you at the BBC are saying ‘oh no, it was someone else’s fault, they just broke a rule’.”

Ms Bruce said: “Hang on, Graham Stuart!”

She added: “Please do not put those words in my mouth.”

But Mr Stuart said: “We all heard what you said, Fiona.”

The Chancellor has blamed “an inadvertent mistake” for her failure to obtain a £900 licence before renting out her property in Dulwich, south east London, for £3,200 a month. The local authority, Southwark Council, has utilised its powers under the 2004 Housing Act to make a licence mandatory for landlords.

But the lettings agency involved in Ms Reeves’ rental arrangements has insisted it had told her she needed a licence.

This contradicted the claim made by Ms Reeves in a letter to the Prime Minister, when she said: “Regrettably, we were not aware that a licence was necessary, and so we did not obtain the licence before letting the property out.”

The firm also said it had apologised to Ms Reeves and her husband after offering to apply for a licence on their behalf but then failing to do so. However, it stressed that it was the landlord’s responsibility to ensure the licence was in place.

Gareth Martin, owner of Harvey Wheeler, said: “We alert all our clients to the need for a licence.”

He added: “Unfortunately, the lack of application was not picked up by us as we do not normally apply for licences on behalf of our clients; the onus is on them to apply. We have apologised to the owners for this oversight.”

Mr Martin said: “Our clients would have been under the impression that a licence had been applied for. Although it is not our responsibility to apply, we did offer to help with this.”

Ms Reeves told the Prime Minister in a new letter: “I accept it was our responsibility to secure the licence.” She added: “As I said to you today, I am sorry about this matter and accept full responsibility for it.”

“0UR SMALL NATI0N CANN0T FEED MILLI0NS!” Joanna Lumley’s shocking statement just set social media on fire — fans are stunned, critics furious!

For half a century, Dame Joanna Lumley has been one of Britain’s most cherished figures — a woman synonymous with elegance, compassion, and the kind of quiet strength that made her a national treasure. From her unforgettable turn as Patsy Stone in Absolutely Fabulous to her tireless humanitarian work for Gurkha veterans and refugees, Lumley has long stood as a symbol of grace and goodness in an often cynical world.

But this week, that image was shaken.

At the Cheltenham Literature Festival, the 78-year-old actress and activist uttered a single sentence that ignited a nationwide controversy — one that has forced even her most loyal admirers to ask difficult questions.

“We are a small nation,” Lumley said. “We’ve always opened our doors and our hearts, but there must be limits. We simply cannot feed millions.”

The line, delivered in her signature calm and thoughtful tone, might have sounded like pragmatic realism to some. But to others, it was a gut punch — a statement that seemed to clash with everything Lumley has spent decades representing.

 The Moment That Changed Everything

Those who attended the session described the atmosphere as “stunned.” Some applauded — a few even cheered. But others sat frozen, unsure how to process what they had just heard from one of Britain’s most compassionate public voices.

Within hours, short clips of the remark hit social media. By nightfall, #JoannaLumley was trending across X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, and TikTok. And by morning, every major British outlet — from The Guardian to The Telegraph — had picked up the story.

What began as a quiet discussion about sustainability and humanitarian aid had erupted into a national reckoning about compassion, responsibility, and the politics of migration.

Supporters rushed to defend her:

“She’s not wrong,” wrote one X user. “We can’t pretend resources are endless. Joanna’s being honest, not heartless.”

Others, however, were furious:

“Deeply disappointing from someone who’s built her entire image on empathy and advocacy,” another wrote. “This isn’t the Joanna Lumley we thought we knew.”

The debate quickly spilled into talk shows, radio panels, and online opinion pieces. Some accused the media of twisting her words. Others insisted her comments reflected a growing — and troubling — sentiment among Britain’s elite.

 The Humanitarian Who Built Her Legacy on Compassion

To understand why Lumley’s statement cut so deeply, one must look at what she has come to represent.

For decades, Joanna Lumley has been more than an actress. She has been a moral compass, using her fame to champion those left behind. Her advocacy for the Gurkha veterans — the Nepalese soldiers who fought alongside British troops but were long denied equal rights — became one of the most successful celebrity-led humanitarian campaigns in modern British history.

Her voice carried weight not because she shouted, but because she cared. Whether speaking for displaced refugees, women’s education, or environmental causes, Lumley’s tone was always one of gentle persuasion, never division.

So when a woman known for her empathy warned that Britain “cannot feed millions,” it felt, to some, like hearing a beloved teacher suddenly speak a language they didn’t recognize.

“Joanna’s always been the embodiment of kindness,” said one senior figure in the arts community. “To hear her sound — even accidentally — exclusionary has left people genuinely shaken. It’s as if the nation’s conscience has stumbled.”

 When Words Collide With Politics

Behind the uproar lies something more complex: the growing tension between compassion and sustainability, and the near-impossible task of discussing migration in today’s Britain without igniting firestorms.

In an era where every phrase can be clipped, stripped of nuance, and shared across millions of screens, public figures like Lumley walk a perilous line. One sentence — even one spoken from concern rather than cruelty — can redefine decades of goodwill.

A media analyst told The Mail:

“This isn’t just about Joanna Lumley. It’s about the impossible standard we place on our icons. We expect them to be saints, to never falter, to carry the moral burden of the entire country. And when they slip, even slightly, the fall is seismic.”

Indeed, the reaction to Lumley’s remarks says as much about the public as it does about her. Britain today is a nation deeply divided on issues of migration and asylum — torn between compassion and fatigue, generosity and fear.

Lumley’s words, fair or not, became a mirror — reflecting back those contradictions.

 Her Team Speaks Out — and Tries to Calm the Storm

By Monday afternoon, Lumley’s representatives had released a statement seeking to clarify her intent.

“Dame Joanna’s comments were about sustainability and compassion working hand in hand,” a spokesperson said. “She believes the UK must continue to help those in need, but in a way that ensures long-term support. Her words came from concern, not criticism.”

The response was measured — and in keeping with Lumley’s lifelong ethos. Yet, as with so many controversies in the social media age, the nuance arrived too late.

For some, the damage was already done.

“It’s not what she said, it’s what people heard,” wrote a columnist in The Independent. “And once the internet decides what you meant, clarification rarely matters.”

 A Fall From Grace — or a Hard Truth We Refuse to Hear?

The broader question now hanging over this controversy is whether Lumley is truly being “canceled,” or whether she’s simply facing the unavoidable backlash that comes from speaking uncomfortable truths in a polarized era.

Some observers believe this may, paradoxically, strengthen her legacy — revealing the courage to speak openly about limits, even at the risk of misunderstanding.

“Joanna’s always been brave,” noted a longtime colleague. “She’s faced dictators, campaigned for forgotten soldiers, and stood up for justice. Maybe she’s just doing what she’s always done — saying what others won’t, even if it costs her.”

Others fear the damage to her image could linger. The actress once considered untouchable is now being discussed in the same breath as culture war controversies — a realm she has long avoided.

Even a few of her celebrity friends, sources say, are “privately concerned” that her words could overshadow decades of humanitarian achievement.

 The Price of Being a National Treasure

The irony is that Lumley’s downfall — if it can be called that — stems not from malice but from a single attempt at honesty. Her statement wasn’t a call for exclusion; it was, by all accounts, a reflection on resource strain and the challenge of sustaining generosity.

But in a world where empathy itself has become political, even kindness must now choose its words carefully.

And perhaps that’s the tragedy of it all.

A woman who spent her life speaking for others is now being judged for a few words that may not have said what she meant.

 The Legacy That Will Endure

For all the uproar, Joanna Lumley’s story is far from over. She remains, at her core, what she has always been — an artist, an advocate, and a woman who has dedicated her life to making others feel seen.

And if this moment proves anything, it’s that the public still expects moral leadership from its icons — even when that leadership comes wrapped in controversy.

As one thoughtful supporter put it online:

“You can disagree with what she said, but don’t forget what she’s done. Joanna Lumley has spent a lifetime helping others. One sentence shouldn’t erase a lifetime of compassion.”

In the end, this is not just the story of a celebrity under fire. It’s a story about how fragile the space for nuance has become — and how even the kindest voices can be drowned out by the noise of outrage.

Whether she apologizes, clarifies, or stands her ground, one truth remains:

Joanna Lumley’s words have forced Britain to look at itself — and the reflection is more complicated than anyone expected.

Katie Piper Opens Up About Painful Health Battle Behind Family Heartbreak

Katie Piper previously revealed the devastating reason she had to give up her dream of having a third child with her husband.

The presenter – who is on The Great Escapers today (December 14) – is a proud mum to two daughters Belle, 11 and Penelope, seven, who she shares with husband Richard Sutton.

And a few years back, Katie and Richard began trying for a third baby. However, sadly a medical setback prevented her from having another child.

The couple are parents to two children (Credit: SplashNews.com)

Katie Piper on trying for another baby with husband Richard

In 2023, Katie filmed a documentary, Katie Piper’s Jailhouse Mums, about imprisoned mothers. During her time in the New Orleans Parish Prison, Katie spoke with inmates who were missing their kids.

And after hearing their stories, Loose Women star Katie wanted to try for a third baby.

“It started to make me think, this is my last chance to have another baby, I’m going to be 40. And if I don’t do it now, I never will,” Katie told the Mirror earlier this year.

She added: “I was turning 40 in the October so I said to my husband: ‘If we want another baby, let’s do it now,’ and we started trying.”

She had to have an operation on her eye (Credit: Loose Women)

Katie’s heartbreaking medical setback

Unfortunately, Katie suffered a medical setback when she had to undergo an emergency operation on her eye, which was damaged in a vile acid attack in 2008.

“You can’t be trying for a baby and also be having unexpected surgeries. So that scuppered that and we had a break. We tried again, but it just didn’t happen,” Katie shared.

Katie also said she considered IVF, but after having to go through over 250 operations since her attack in 2008, she didn’t want to endure more hospital or the emotional toll if it didn’t work. As a result, she sadly gave up the dream of having a third child.

However, revealing she still felt something was missing, Katie ended up becoming a volunteer at Battersea Dogs & Cats Home. She has since adopted an adorable dog named Sugar.

Alongside photos of the pup, Katie wrote on Instagram: “We have expanded our family… Introducing Sugar. The girls have wanted a brother or sister for so long and we wanted to make this happen. Our gorgeous girl came from @battersea Dogs & Cats Home and we are so happy to make our home, her new home.

“Big shout out to the amazing team @battersea for all the incredible work they do rescuing dogs and cats everyday. Now apologies in advance for all the puppy spam that is about to follow over the next few months.”

Watch Katie on The Great Escapers on Sunday (December 14) at 6pm on ITV1.

Read more: Katie Piper and husband Richard celebrate 10-year wedding anniversary with adorable photo

CITY HALL IN TURMOIL: ANT MIDDLETON BREAKS AWAY TO LEAD INDEPENDENT REVOLT AIMED AT “FREEING LONDON FROM KHAN’S CONTROL”

In a stunning live broadcast that has sent shockwaves through the UK, Ant Middleton, the former Special Forces operative and television personality, has just dropped a bombshell announcement declaring his candidacy for London Mayor. This unprecedented revelation exploded onto the airwaves just moments ago, igniting a fierce political firestorm and leaving the nation reeling.

Middleton’s unexpected entry into the race marks one of the most dramatic twists in British politics this year. Known for his rugged military background and no-nonsense persona on television, Middleton now steps into the political arena with a bold, unapologetic message aimed directly at the heart of  London’s governance.

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The news broke during a live broadcast, catching both viewers and political commentators off guard. Middleton delivered his shocking declaration with intense conviction, emphasizing his commitment to transforming London amidst growing concerns about crime, housing, and public safety.

This sudden move instantly reshapes the mayoral battle, previously dominated by established politicians. Middleton’s raw appeal and outsider status present a unique challenge to seasoned candidates, potentially galvanizing a new wave of voters hungry for change and decisive leadership.

Industry insiders are already scrambling to assess the impact of this announcement. Analysts note that Middleton’s military credentials could lend him credibility on security issues, a hot-button topic as London grapples with escalating gang violence and an overwhelmed police force.

The timing couldn’t be more charged. With the mayoral elections approaching, Middleton’s candidacy injects a fresh element of unpredictability and urgency into a race that was considered conventional until now. Polls, analysts warn, may now be obsolete as voter sentiments realign in response to this breakthrough.

Experts point out that Middleton’s communication style—direct, commanding, and charismatic—resonates strongly across demographic divides. His appeal transcends typical political boundaries, potentially attracting support from both traditional conservative bases and disenchanted centrists.

The political establishment is visibly rattled by this development. Conversations behind closed doors reveal a mix of apprehension and strategic recalibration as parties contemplate how to counter Middleton’s insurgent campaign that promises to upend the status quo.

Public reaction is pouring in across social media platforms, with thousands expressing shock, support, or skepticism. The rapid spread of this news underscores its gravity and hints at a highly contested and volatile election cycle ahead.

Security analysts emphasize Middleton’s background may bring a renewed focus on law enforcement policy and emergency response strategies. His proposed platform reportedly prioritizes robust crime prevention measures coupled with community engagement initiatives.

Housing experts anticipate that Middleton will address  London’s chronic housing affordability crisis with fresh ideas rooted in pragmatism and substantial infrastructural investment, a departure from the usual political rhetoric and broken promises.
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Transport and environmental advocates are keenly watching for Middleton’s stance on London’s pressing transit issues and climate commitments. His approach on these fronts could redefine priorities in the mayoral race’s policy debates.

This bombshell revelation from Ant Middleton has grasped the nation’s attention and shifted the political landscape overnight. Londoners now face a reshaped contest, fraught with heightened stakes and charged emotions unlike any seen before.

As the story unfolds, all eyes remain fixed on Middleton’s next moves, campaign strategy, and the reactions from rival candidates. The atmosphere is electric, and the city stands on the cusp of political upheaval that could redefine London’s future.

This is breaking news. Stay tuned as we continue to bring minute-by-minute updates on Ant Middleton’s game-changing announcement and the cascading effects reverberating through Britain’s capital and beyond.

King Charles’ seriously strict Sandringham timetable – and ‘unspoken rule’ at Christmas

From the tight order of the day to multiple outfit changes, the royal family’s festive gathering is anything but a regular Christmas celebration

As the royal family prepare to gather at Sandringham this week for their Christmas celebrations, HELLO! can reveal what goes on behind the scenes at their festive get-together.

The Prince and Princess of Wales are expected to join the King and Queen at the royal estate in Norfolk, along with their children Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, ten, and seven-year-old Prince Louis.

Prince Edward and Sophie are also expected, along with their children Lady Louise Mountbatten-Windsor and James, Earl of Wessex, as are Princess Anne and Zara and Mike Tindall, and their three children.

Princesses Beatrice and Eugenie are also on the guest list, although we won’t see their parents Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor and his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson, who have become outcasts thanks to their association with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Festive news

As has been the case since they moved to California, Prince Harry and Meghan and their children, Prince Archie, six, and Princess Lilibet, four, will be absent again.

© Andrew Parsons / Kensington Pala
William, Kate and the children are expected at Sandringham

The King’s strict timetable

The festivities begin on the morning of Christmas Eve, when family members arrive at Sandringham House, the monarch’s private country retreat. But Christmas for the royals isn’t the same relaxed affair that most of us enjoy. Rather, they are on a strict timetable, with multiple outfit changes over three days.

“There’s an unspoken rule for guests: do not arrive late. There is no grace period,” royal author Robert Jobson tells HELLO!. “After completing the odd custom, dating back to Edward VII, of being weighed on antique jockey’s scales, guests are on the clock.

“They change for a formal lunch, served by royal staff in the dining room. Afterwards, most go on an afternoon walk – one of the few moments when the schedule loosens up. But even then, they are on a timer. By 5pm, everyone must be back for afternoon tea.”

© Getty Images
The royal family has celebrated Christmas at Sandringham House since the reign of Edward VII

Christmas Day

On Christmas morning, royal fans start queuing at dawn so they can catch a glimpse of the family on their way to and from St Mary Magdalene Church.

“What many do not realise is that the King and his family will have been to church once already that morning for a private service, away from the cameras and onlookers,” Robert reveals.

© Samir Hussein/WireImage
The royal family do their Christmas walkabout every year

Christmas lunch is traditional, with all the trimmings, and the royal dining table is laid out with luxury crackers, made by the royal warrant holder Tom Smith.

“Everyone, even the King, wears paper hats from inside the crackers,” Robert says.

A ‘very special’ Christmas

As Kate’s first Christmas since she announced at the start of the year that she was in remission from cancer, and coming so soon after the King revealed his own cancer treatment is being scaled back, this year’s celebrations are set to feel extra special.

“The year has ended on a very positive note for the King, and the good news regarding his health will undoubtedly lift his spirits and those of the people around him. It will have brought reassurance to both him and his family,” says Robert.

“It will be good for him to have a chance to relax among his loved ones. It will be a very special time. I’m sure he will raise a glass this Christmas to those who care for him.”

The new bumper Christmas issue of HELLO! magazine is out now

Britons have been filming themselves travelling to beaches in France and ‘destroying’ small boats – gaining thousands of views in the process

 

Sanya Burgess is an award-winning journalist whose investigations have led the global news agenda – from the ‘hostage’ ordeal of the Dubai ruler’s daughter, to the rescue of Ukrainian children stolen by Russia.

British vigilantes who spearheaded efforts to fly England flags across the country have launched a new anti-migrant protest – attempting to block illegal Channel crossings.

 

Using the term “Operation Stop The Boats”, members of the group have been filming themselves slashing small boats before they are used by migrants to cross the English Channel from France.

Posts on social media show members calling for other British men to join them in France, including making a direct appeal to football hooligans, saying “we need to make a stand”.

In one video message shared this week by a member of the Raise the Colours group – the grassroots movement that has seen flags fixed to lampposts, motorway bridges and roundabouts across England – two men are seen evoking military language and the spirit of the British fight against the Nazis in the Second World War.

Claiming to be recording from the northern French coast, one said: “Just like in the 1940s, we must take a stand, and it starts with the men of England and Britain.”

Making an appeal to “firms” – a phrase that refers to football hooligan groups – the other man added: “Our country is doing nothing. Weak government, weaker borders.

“They are doing nothing, so we need to make a stand, boys. Get the lads together, get your firms together, get the lads in the pub, get the lads down the bars, if you’re talking about it and you agree with what we are doing, give us a hand.”
The Government is under pressure to act after more than 36,000 people crossed the English Channel in small boats (Photo: raisethecolours.org.uk/Instagram)
The Government is under pressure to tackle the issue of migration amid a record number of asylum applications, surging small boat crossings and protests at hotels housing asylum seekers.

On Monday, Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood set out a package of reforms to asylum policies aimed at tackling illegal migration, telling MPs the current situation is “out of control and unfair”.

The latest videos shared by those linked to the Raise the Colours group have separately been referred to as “Operation Overlord”.

Earlier clips showed two men saying they were taking matters of illegal migration into their own hands and filming themselves stamping on and smashing a small boat’s engine.

In the clips, they refer to themselves as “patriots” and make a number of claims without evidence, such as that they are stopping “rapists and murderers” from “coming to a town near you”.
One video shared by the group (Photo: raisethecolours.org.uk/nstagram)
The flag-raising group, who have a combined 100,000 followers on X and Instagram, also posted a plea on X for donations last week, writing that they are: “STOPPING The Boats, whether the migrants or government like it or not!”

Two videos from the group have recently been shared to the 1.7 million X followers of Tommy Robinson. The far-right figure and former leader of the English Defence League, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon, has previously been accused of mobilising football hooligan firms in an attempt to launch anti-Muslim rallies across the country.

Separately, French media reports that the Dunkirk Public Prosecutor’s office has opened a preliminary investigation into “aggravated violence” against migrants by suspected British far-right figures.

One of the details being examined by the French prosecutor is the claim that in September, four men waving British and UK flags verbally and physically attacked migrants on the French coast. It is alleged that they told the migrants they were not welcome in England and proceeded to steal some of their belongings.

The men are not the first anti-migrant figures to travel to France in a bid to take matters into their own hands.

In September, Ukip, Nigel Farage’s former political party, posted a video to their X account showing what appeared to be sleeping migrants in France being woken by people flashing strobe lights in their faces and shouting at them.

Nick Tenconi, Ukip’s current leader, also posted a video captioned: “In Calais hunting for illegal invaders trying to cross into Britain.”

‘I Just Wanted to Make You Proud’: AngryGinge’s Emotional Reunion Breaks the Nation

The first social media star in the history of I’m A Celebrity has been crowned King of the Jungle.

Morgan Burtwistle, better known as AngryGinge to his five million social media followers, was voted by the public to be the winner of the ITV reality show.

A staggering 13 million votes were cast, the highest on the show in at least a decade.

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The 24-year-old, who grew up in a council estate in Salford, Manchester, appeared overwhelmed as he told the show’s hosts Ant McPartlin and Declan Donnelly: ‘I don’t think I can swear, but I feel amazing. Honestly a dream come true. I didn’t think I could go all this way never mind win. Thank you to everyone who voted.’

Meanwhile, Tom Read Wilson, 39, placed runner-up and Shona McGarty, 34, came in third after three weeks in the Australian jungle.

AngryGinge was crowned King by last year’s winner McFly star Danny Jones.

The social media star said of his experience: ‘I was a massive fan of the show but it was a lot harder than I thought. I reached out to people who had been on it before for tips and clues but no one told me how hard it was going to be.

The first social media star in the history of I’m A Celebrity has been crowned King of the Jungle. Morgan Burtwistle, better known as AngryGinge, beat Tom Read Wilson in the final

Morgan Burtwistle, better known as Angry Ginge to his five million social media followers, broke down in tears after he was voted by the public to be the winner of the ITV reality show

‘I’m a lot mentally strong than I thought I was. That was the hardest thing I’ve ever done. There were so many days I wanted to throw the towel in. I didn’t do it to become King, I did it for the experience.’

The star was greeted off the I’m A Celebrity bridge by his mother, Michelle, and his older sister, Tasha, who flew out to Australia two weeks ago to support him.

Typically the winner of the show is a household name and AngryGinge is the first social media star to be crowned King of the Jungle.

It’s a sure sign of the times and ITV bosses are said to be ‘thrilled’ with his appearance after he attracted 12 million in consolidated viewers over the first three episodes of the show – a record breaking number for the broadcaster.

Viewers wrote on X: ‘So glad that Ginge won, such an entertainer, but loved Tom and he was such a gracious & deserving runner up’ and ‘Congratulations to AngryGinge #ImACelebrity #king but well done Tom coming 2rd place.’

‘Angry Ginge is the king of the jungle for 2025! Who would have thought we’d even see him on #ImACelebrity let alone him winning it!’;

‘Can’t help but admit Angry Ginge is so likeable. Just one of us and living the dream’.

AngryGinge grew to prominence on the live streaming platform, Twitch, on which his five million followers watch him shout expletives at a video or football game for more than 10 hours a day from his bedroom.

The star was greeted off the I’m A Celebrity bridge by his mother, Michelle, who flew out to Australia two weeks ago to support him

AngryGinge put the crown on his mother’s head as they celebrated the win after being

eunited

Tom narrowly missed out on being crowned the nation’s champion

Typically the winner of the show is a household name and AngryGinge is the first social media star to be crowned King of the Jungle

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The 24-year-old, who grew up in a council estate in Salford, Manchester, appeared overwhelmed as he told the show’s hosts Ant and Dec: ‘I feel amazing’

A staggering 13million votes were cast, the highest on the show in at least a decade. AngryGinge was crowned King by last year’s winner McFly star Danny Jones

The social media star said of his experience: ‘I was a massive fan of the show but it was a lot harder than I thought’

AngryGinge grew to prominence on the live streaming platform, Twitch, on which his five million followers watch him shout expletives at a video or football game

Viewers wrote on X: ‘So glad that Ginge won, such an entertainer, but loved Tom and he was such a gracious & deserving runner up’ and ‘Congratulations to AngryGinge’

He earns £1 million a year on what is known as ‘the Gogglebox of the internet’ but is set to make far more after his jungle stint with ITV bosses, and other major broadcasters, eyeing him up as the future of television.

Tom, meanwhile, said of his journey: ‘I think, historically, I have tendency to be a little bit introspective sometimes and that’s not very good for me.

‘What you had to be in the jungle is with an outward lens because of the people and also because of the nature. Everything you look at and hear is majestic.

‘Your whole focus has to be out and then you sort of forget this corporeal thing and you’re a floating soul. It’s a very nice way to live, but it takes an awfully long time to get used to it.’

The show opened with Shona, 34, pining for Aitch, 25, following his departure.

The former EastEnders star has forged a strong bond with Mancunian rapper Aitch during their three week stay on the long-running show, but his semi-final elimination hinted at something more than friendship.

But Shona described herself as a ‘sister’ to the rapper in her exit interview.

She said of their bond: ‘To be completely honest, when he came in he had this rapper thing going on. But actually underneath it all I could tell he was quite scared of the whole experience, we had a similar upbringing. He was normal and I just felt like an older sister and I wanted to protect him.’

The actress reflected on how the experience has helped ‘heal’ her following the breakdown of her engagement.

Shona split from the Irish musician David Bracken just weeks before entering the jungle.

Speaking about her journey, Shona said: ‘I came in here shaking like a s***ing dog, my anxiety has been up and down for as long as I can remember and it’s been a healing process for me in here. In real life I’m going to handle things a bit more easier for me, I think’.

Shona cried as she was greeted off the bridge by her older sister, Camilla.