Sad News: Urgent Medical Warning Issued for Anne Hegerty as Fans Voice Growing Concern

The Chase star Anne Hegerty has been issued a warning from a doctor about prediabetes. In a new interview, the quizmaster revealed she has lost around 30lbs, but claims this isn’t down to one particular method.

Despite this, Anne said her doctor has advised her to take mediciation that could help improve her health, and she admits it’s something she’s considering.

“I’m not doing anything deliberately, except I did think to myself that I needed to get more active, because I really don’t want much and I should do more of that,” she shared.

“I also need to do more stretches, because I’ve got no core strength and I think actually that may be a good idea.”

She added to Yours Magazine: “My doctor said to me about me being prediabetic and suggested something like Ozempic and I told him I’d think about it, but I’m only thinking about it.”

The 67-year-old said the medic suggested this route to help her “stave off diabetes”, adding: “I think I’m OK, but I’ll bear it in mind.”

Anne’s weight loss journey is said to have began during her stint on I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! in 2018.

Living off minimal food in the jungle, the quizmaster reportedly lost a stone in just three weeks and has shed more since.

Speaking on the Jeremy Vine show in 2019, Anne said that while she’s “not a fit fat person”, she’s “not unhealthy”, though expressed a wish to become “fitter”.

More recently, she jokingly claimed that having money had sparked better eating decisions.

Speaking to Bella magazine, Anne said: “Some people have said that [she’s lost weight], but I haven’t been doing anything deliberate.

“I do find I’m not as hungry these days – it’s to do with being rich (laughs). It’s brilliant – I love being rich!

“It just means I have this sense of security, and do I need to eat this? Am I hungry right now?

“I might be hungry later, so let’s put it aside and I can come back and eat it up.”

Anne, who previously revealed she was on benefits before securing a job on The Chase, claimed she was “hungrier” when she was “poor”.

“You feel hungrier, and that’s why poor people eat more, and they eat fattening stuff,” she added to the publication.

What is pre-diabetes?

Many people have blood sugar levels that are above the normal range, but not high enough to be diagnosed as having diabetes. This is known as non-diabetic hyperglycaemia, or pre-diabetes. People with non-diabetic hyperglycaemia are at greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes, but the risk can be reduced through various lifestyle changes, according to the NHS.

The most common types of diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is a lifelong condition where the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the cells that produce insulin.

Type 2 diabetes is where the body does not produce enough insulin, or the body’s cells do not react to insulin properly.

Gestational diabetes is diabetes that can develop during pregnancy. It affects women who haven’t been affected by diabetes before, and it usually goes away after giving birth.

What is Ozempic?

Ozempic is not pescribed as a weight loss drug. It is medicine for adults with type 2 diabetes, which, along with diet and exercise, may improve blood sugar. Diabetes.org.uk states: “Ozempic, a brand name for semaglutide, belongs to a group of drugs called GLP-1 agonists – these can also be called GLP-1 analogues, GLP-1 RAs and incretin mimetics.

“There are several different GLP-1 agonists available in the UK. Ozempic is a treatment for type 2 diabetes, which can help you to manage blood sugar levels. You can take it on its own or with other diabetes medications such as metformin, sulphonylureas or insulin.”

If you are concerned about diabetes, speak to your doctor.

BBC Shake-Up: Rylan Clark Named Strictly Host as Surprise Co-Host Sparks Fan Reaction

Hot: It’s Rylan Clark! The BBC just made a shocking announcement, revealing that Ryan will take on the hosting role on Strictly Come Dancing after Tess and Claudia’s sudden departure. And the person joining him is someone no one expected!

In a move that has sent shockwaves through the glittering world of ballroom dancing, the BBC has officially announced Rylan Clark as the new host of *Strictly Come Dancing*, stepping into the formidable shoes left vacant by long-time presenters Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman. The revelation, dropped like a bombshell during a prime-time special on November 26, 2025, confirms what insiders have been whispering for weeks: the charismatic former *X Factor* star and beloved radio personality will lead the show’s 2026 series. But the real jaw-dropper? His co-host is none other than Emma Willis, the no-nonsense presenter known for her work on *Big Brother* and *The Voice UK*—a choice that has left fans reeling, divided, and utterly surprised.

The announcement comes hot on the heels of Tess and Claudia’s emotional exit, revealed just last month in a joint Instagram video that caught even the show’s insiders off guard. The duo, who have helmed *Strictly* since 2004 and 2014 respectively, cited a desire for more family time and new projects as their reasons for bowing out after the current series wraps. “It’s been an incredible ride, but it’s time to hang up our sequins,” Tess said in the video, her voice cracking with emotion. Claudia, ever the witty counterpart, added, “We’ve laughed, cried, and glitter-bombed our way through two decades. What a sparkle!” Their departure marks the end of an era for the BBC’s flagship entertainment program, which has dazzled audiences with its mix of celebrity glamour, professional prowess, and occasional controversy.

Rylan Clark, 37, is no stranger to the *Strictly* family. Rising to fame on *The X Factor* in 2012, where his larger-than-life personality and infectious energy won over Simon Cowell and the nation, Rylan transitioned seamlessly into presenting. He hosted *Strictly Come Dancing: It Takes Two* from 2019 to 2023, earning rave reviews for his empathetic interviews and cheeky banter with contestants. Fans remember his heartfelt moments, like consoling tearful dancers after tough critiques or hyping up underdogs before live shows. His departure from *It Takes Two* in 2023 to focus on other ventures, including his BBC Radio 2 show and various  TV gigs, left a void—but now, he’s back in a bigger role than ever.

“Rylan’s the perfect fit,” a BBC insider told us exclusively. “He’s got that sparkle, that warmth, and he knows the show inside out. Plus, he’s adored by the viewers.” Betting odds had pegged him as a frontrunner alongside names like Bill Bailey and Alan Carr, but the official nod still feels like a triumph for the Essex boy done good. Rylan himself reacted with trademark humility and excitement on social media shortly after the announcement: “Pinch me! Hosting *Strictly*? Dream come true. Can’t wait to bring the glitz with my fabulous co-host. Let’s dance!”

But it’s the choice of Emma Willis as his co-host that’s truly raised eyebrows. At 49, Emma brings a wealth of experience from reality TV heavyweights, where her poised demeanor and sharp interviewing skills have made her a household name. Yet, her pairing with Rylan is unexpected—fans had speculated duos like Rylan with Fleur East (who replaced him on *It Takes Two*) or even a solo host shake-up. “Emma? Really?” one fan tweeted in disbelief. “Love her on *Big Brother*, but *Strictly* is all about fun and flair. This feels like a curveball.” Others praised the move: “Fresh energy! Emma’s class and Rylan’s charm—genius combo.”

Sources close to the production reveal that Emma was a last-minute contender, edging out other favorites after impressing in screen tests. “The chemistry was electric,” our insider dished. “Rylan’s bubbly, Emma’s grounded—they balance each other like Tess and Claudia did.” Emma, married to Busted’s Matt Willis and a mother of three, has spoken openly about her love for dance shows. In a past interview, she confessed, “I’d kill to be part of *Strictly*—the glamour, the stories, it’s TV magic.” Her addition signals the BBC’s intent to evolve the format, perhaps injecting more in-depth contestant chats amid the tango and tango.

The shake-up couldn’t come at a more pivotal time for *Strictly*. The 2025 series has been marred by scandals, from judge walkout rumors to contestant injuries, prompting calls for a refresh. Tess and Claudia’s exit, while voluntary, was influenced by the show’s grueling schedule—weekends dominated by live broadcasts, leaving little room for personal life. BBC chief content officer Kate Phillips addressed the changes in a statement: “Tess and Claudia have been the heart of *Strictly*, but we’re thrilled to welcome Rylan and Emma. They’ll honor the legacy while bringing new vibrancy.”

Reactions from the *Strictly* alumni have poured in. Former winner Bill Bailey, who was tipped for the role, tweeted his support: “Rylan? Brilliant choice! And Emma—unexpected but spot on. Can’t wait to watch.” Judge Craig Revel Horwood, known for his acerbic wit, dropped a hint on air last week: “Darlings, big changes ahead—fabulous!” Fans speculate this could mean more judge involvement, perhaps even guest spots.

Rylan’s journey to this pinnacle is a testament to his resilience. After *X Factor*, he navigated personal highs and lows, including his 2021 divorce from Dan Neal and mental health battles, which he shared candidly in his memoir *Ten: The Decade That Changed My Future*. His advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights and mental health has endeared him to millions, making him more than just a presenter—he’s a role model. “I’ve grown so much,” Rylan reflected in a recent Radio 2 broadcast. “Hosting *Strictly*? It’s full circle.”

Emma, too, brings depth. Her no-frills style contrasts Rylan’s flamboyance, promising dynamic on-screen moments. Imagine her grilling judges on scores while Rylan rallies the crowd—pure entertainment gold. But not everyone’s convinced. A Reddit thread exploded with debates: “Why not keep it in the family? Rylan yes, but Emma feels like a mismatch.” Others worry about gender balance, with two hosts again but a fresh dynamic.

As *Strictly* gears up for 2026, producers promise innovations: more diverse celebrities, interactive viewer votes, and perhaps themed weeks honoring the show’s history. Rylan and Emma’s debut will be scrutinized, but if their past successes are any indication, they’ll waltz through the pressure.

Tess and Claudia’s final bow from Blackpool Tower Ballroom last weekend was tearful, with tributes from stars like Rose Ayling-Ellis and Hamza Yassin. “You’ve been our guiding lights,” Rose signed in a video message. Now, the torch passes to Rylan and Emma—a hot new era for *Strictly*, full of surprises, sequins, and steps into the unknown.

In the end, this announcement isn’t just about hosts; it’s about reinvention. *Strictly Come Dancing* has survived scandals, pandemics, and shifting tastes. With Rylan at the helm and Emma by his side, the show is poised to shine brighter than ever. As Rylan might say: “Keep dancing!”

END OF AN ERA: LINDA ROBSON’S TEARFUL FINAL GOODBYE TO PAULINE QUIRKE!  The bond that defined a generation is officially shattered!  Linda Robson has just broken down in an emotional collapse while saying a final farewell to the woman who shared her laughter, her deepest secrets, and her entire life. Fans everywhere are absolutely devastated by this “shocking” turn of events. What “horrible” truth led to this final, tearful goodbye? Was it a secret feud that finally reached a breaking point, or is there a “terrible” health update that forced them to part ways?  Linda says she’s losing her “dearest friend,” but what really happened behind palace-like secrecy of their private lives? The mystery of why they are ending their journey together now is leaving millions in total shock. Is this the end of their story forever? THE HEART-WRENCHING TRUTH: Click the link below to see the full emotional footage and discover what REALLY happened between them!

END OF AN ERA: LINDA ROBSON’S TEARFUL FINAL GOODBYE TO PAULINE QUIRKE!

In a moment that has broken hearts across the nation, Linda Robson — actress, presenter, and lifelong friend — was seen in tears as she whispered a final message to her beloved Pauline Quirke, her co-star and best friend of over 50 years. “You’ll still be my friend in the next life,” Linda said softly. “Come find me again.”

Those words, filled with love and loss, silenced an entire room. For decades, the two women stood side by side — in laughter, in fame, and in friendship. Their bond, first forged as teenagers on Birds of a Feather, became one of the most enduring partnerships in British television.

 A Friendship Like No Other

Linda and Pauline weren’t just co-stars — they were family. From their early days on screen to their rise as one of TV’s most loved duos, their chemistry was real, their laughter genuine, their friendship unshakable.

Off-screen, they shared holidays, family milestones, and the quiet comfort of a friendship that never faded. Through career highs and personal struggles, they always found their way back to each other.

“We grew up together,” Linda once said. “We’ve shared everything — joy, heartbreak, and laughter. She’s part of my soul.”

 A Nation Mourns

As news spread, tributes poured in from fans, friends, and fellow actors. Many remembered Pauline not just as a gifted actress, but as a woman whose warmth and humour lit up every room she entered

Messages flooded social media:

“Pauline Quirke made us laugh, cry, and feel like she was one of us.”

“Linda and Pauline’s friendship was the heart of British TV. We’ll never forget them.”

“She was pure joy — a true treasure of our screens.”

 More Than Co-Stars

Together, they made Birds of a Feather one of the most beloved British sitcoms of all time — a story of sisterhood, resilience, and laughter through life’s hardest moments. Their bond on screen was so real because it was real.

Even when they stepped away from the limelight, their connection remained strong — a quiet friendship that endured far beyond fame.

 “Come Find Me Again”

Linda’s final words to Pauline have been shared thousands of times online — a heartbreaking echo of a friendship that defined generations.
They weren’t just words of grief, but of eternal love — the kind that doesn’t end when life does. “Some people come into your life for a reason,” one fan wrote. “Linda and Pauline showed us what true friendship really means.”

As Britain mourns the loss of a national treasure, one thing is certain: Pauline Quirke’s laughter and spirit will live on — in every memory, every smile, and every rerun that reminds us of the joy she brought to so many.

And somewhere, in another life, Linda and Pauline will meet again — two best friends, laughing like they always did.

“We Need Your Prayers”… Heartbroken Karen Barber breaks down in tears as she reveals husband Christopher Dean’s devastating diagnosis… figure skating legend now facing the biggest battle of his life — just 30 minutes after their emotional livestream leaves fans around the world in shock Details here

“We Need Your Prayers”… Heartbroken Karen Barber breaks down in tears as she reveals husband Christopher Dean’s devastating diagnosis… figure skating legend now facing the biggest battle of his life — just 30 minutes after their emotional livestream leaves fans around the world in sh-ock…

The ice skating world froze in collective heartbreak this afternoon as Karen Barber, the poised former Olympian and *Dancing on Ice* coach, shattered her composure in a live Instagram stream from her Buckinghamshire home. Just 30 minutes after wrapping an emotional on-camera tribute to her partner of 14 years, Christopher Dean—celebrating their shared legacy with Jayne Torvill ahead of the duo’s farewell tour—Barber returned to the feed, her voice trembling and eyes brimming with tears. “We need your prayers,” she whispered, clutching a tissue as sobs overtook her. “Christopher… my Chris… has been diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson’s disease. This is the biggest battle of his life, and we’re going to fight it together. But right now, we need all the love you can give.”

The revelation, delivered raw and unscripted, left fans around the globe reeling. Dean, 66, the Olympic gold medalist whose elegant lifts and passionate routines with Torvill captivated millions, has been a pillar of grace and resilience for over five decades. Their iconic 1984 *Boléro* performance at the Sarajevo Winter Olympics—scoring perfect 6.0s across the board—remains etched in sporting history as a symphony of artistry and athleticism. Yet, behind the sequins and spotlights, Dean has quietly contended with tremors and fatigue that doctors now confirm as symptoms of the progressive neurological disorder. “He wanted us to share this together,” Barber continued, her voice cracking. “But time is of the essence now. We’re facing it head-on, but we can’t do it without your support.”

The livestream, which peaked at over 500,000 viewers, pivoted from joy to devastation in an instant. Earlier, Barber and Dean had joined Torvill virtually for a 45-minute chat, reminiscing about their *Torvill & Dean: Our Last Dance* tour, set to launch in April 2026 after the duo’s announced retirement from competitive skating this year. Laughter echoed as they recalled the 1994 Lillehammer bronze, the *Dancing on Ice* judging panel antics, and Dean’s cheeky mentorship of celebrities like Sam Aston, the 2025 DOI champion. “Chris is the heart of it all,” Barber had beamed, linking arms with him on camera. “Our  skates may hang up soon, but the magic never will.” Fans flooded the chat with hearts and tour ticket boasts, unaware the stream would soon become a plea for prayers.

Parkinson’s disease, which affects nearly 10 million people worldwide, strikes the brain’s dopamine-producing cells, leading to tremors, stiffness, and balance issues. Early-onset cases, like Dean’s—diagnosed before age 50, though his symptoms emerged later—often progress more aggressively but respond better to treatments like levodopa therapy and deep brain stimulation. Dean’s history of physical demands may have masked early signs; he’s spoken candidly about a 2015 colon polyp scare that left him pondering mortality, describing it as an “agonising” ordeal where he questioned if he’d “live or die.” “Skating kept me fit, but the aches and pains… we always chalked them up to the ice,” Barber revealed post-diagnosis. Insiders say Dean first noticed subtle hand shakes during *Dancing on Ice* rehearsals in 2024, dismissing them as fatigue from the show’s grueling schedule. A routine check-up in July escalated to an MRI, confirming the diagnosis last week. “Even close friends were caught off guard,” a source close to the couple told *The Sun*. “Chris had mentioned minor health niggles, but nothing like this.”

Barber and Dean’s bond, forged on the *Dancing on Ice* set in 2011, has been a quiet anchor amid their high-octane lives. She, a 1983 European bronze medalist with partner Nicky Slater and two-time Olympian, traded blades for coaching after retiring, becoming DOI’s head coach and judge. Their romance sparked headlines when paparazzi snapped them kissing outside a London restaurant, confirming Barber’s separation from ex-husband Stephen Pickavance and Dean’s amicable split from American skater Jill Trenary after 16 years and two sons, Jack and Sam. “We’ve never needed a  ring to know we’re forever,” Dean quipped in a 2023 interview, crediting Barber for his post-divorce stability. Together, they’ve blended families—Barber’s daughters Laura and Emma from her first marriage joining Dean’s boys for holidays in Colorado Springs, where the couple often escapes.

News of the diagnosis rippled instantly across social media, with #PrayersForChris trending worldwide within minutes. “My heart is shattered—Chris taught a generation to glide through life with elegance. Sending all the strength,” posted Torvill from Nottingham, sharing a throwback of their gold-medal embrace. DOI stars piled on: Oti Mabuse wrote, “You’ve lifted us all—now let us lift you. Prayers from South Africa to the ice.” Even non-skaters chimed in; Olympian Greg Rutherford called it “devastating,” while fans from Japan and Australia recalled Dean’s global tours. “He’s the reason I laced up at 5,” one X user shared, attaching a video of a child mimicking *Boléro*. GoFundMe pages for Parkinson’s research surged 40% in the UK by evening, per charity trackers.

Dean himself made a brief appearance post-announcement, stepping into frame with a weak smile and steadier-than-expected voice. “This isn’t goodbye to the ice—it’s just a new routine,” he said, squeezing Barber’s hand. “Karen’s my partner in this, like always. And to the fans: your love got us the gold. It’ll get us through this too.” Medical experts, speaking to BBC, emphasized hope: “Early detection means options—exercise, like skating, slows progression,” noted Dr. Sarah Jarvis of the Parkinson’s UK Foundation. Dean plans adaptive therapy, including water-based routines to maintain mobility.

As dusk fell over Buckingham, Barber ended the stream with a whispered “Thank you,” her tear-streaked face a testament to love’s unyielding grip. For a man who once danced defiance into every twirl, this diagnosis is no finale—it’s an encore. The skating community, from Sarajevo to Sheffield, stands ready with open arms and fervent prayers. In Dean’s words from a 2024 DOI finale: “The ice doesn’t break you; it reveals your strength.” Tonight, that strength shines brighter than ever.

“Justice, at last.”After 30 long years, Denise Fergus has finally been given a moment she never thought she’d see. The decision to deny Jon Venables parole has been described as the most powerful step toward justice for her son, James — and for parents everywhere who refuse to give up.Full details belσw

“Justice, at last.” — After 30 long years, Denise Fergus has finally been given a moment she never thought she’d see.“Justice, at last.” — After 30 long years, Denise Fergus has finally been given a moment she never thought she’d see. The decision to deny Jon Venables parole has been described as the most powerful step toward justice for her son, James — and for parents everywhere who refuse to give up

On December 30, 2025, as the nation reflects on one of its most harrowing crimes, Denise Fergus, the mother of murdered toddler James Bulger, has once again found herself at the centre of a storm of emotion and public scrutiny. The phrase “the best thing to happen in 30 years” echoes her words from two years ago, when Jon Venables’ parole was denied in December 2023 – a rare moment of relief in a decades-long fight for justice. Yet today, with Venables facing a new parole review scheduled for late 2025, fears are mounting that a fresh bid or legal manoeuvre could overturn years of hard-won progress, potentially freeing one of Britain’s most notorious child killers.

The murder of two-year-old James Bulger on February 12, 1993, remains etched in the national consciousness as a symbol of unimaginable evil. CCTV footage captured 10-year-olds Jon Venables and Robert Thompson leading the trusting toddler away from the New Strand Shopping Centre in Bootle, Merseyside. What followed was a brutal ordeal: the boys tortured James, battered him with bricks and an iron bar, and left his mutilated body on a railway line. The crime shocked the world, sparking debates on juvenile justice, evil in children, and societal failures.

Venables and Thompson were convicted of murder in November 1993 – the youngest murderers in modern British history. They served eight years in secure units before being released in 2001 with new identities and lifelong anonymity orders, a decision that ignited public outrage. While Thompson has reportedly lived a law-abiding life under protection, Venables’ path has been marked by repeated failures. Recalled to prison in 2010 and again in 2017 for possessing indecent images of children, he has been deemed a persistent risk.

In December 2023, the Parole Board rejected Venables’ bid for release, ruling he remained a danger to children due to his “long-term sexual interest in children,” history of secrecy, and inability to be honest with probation officers. Denise Fergus described the decision as “the best thing that has happened to me in 30 years,” expressing “pure relief and elation.” She told reporters: “I have fought for justice for James… this is a huge day for us.” The ruling allowed her family a brief respite, with Fergus noting it was the first time the system had “gone my way.”

But that victory now hangs in the balance. In September 2025, the Parole Board confirmed a new review of Venables’ case, referred by the Justice Secretary, following standard processes for life-sentence prisoners. Sources indicate the hearing is set for late 2025, with a decision possibly by year’s end. Venables, now 43, could argue for release under strict licence conditions, including a new identity.

Adding to the tension is speculation around a “shocking new move” from Venables. While no official appeal against prior denials has materialised recently, insiders suggest he may challenge aspects of his ongoing detention or push aggressively in the upcoming hearing. Past patterns show Venables has exploited legal avenues, including refusing to attend hearings if family representatives are involved. In 2023, he boycotted his own parole evidence session for this reason. Reports from prison sources describe him as manipulative, with one claiming he “feels like a celebrity” and views himself as wronged.

Denise Fergus has been vocal in her opposition. Through the James Bulger Memorial Trust, she campaigns tirelessly, launching a victims’ helpline in March 2025 on what would have been James’s 35th birthday. “This is mental torture for me,” she said earlier this year upon learning of the latest review. “What’s changed? He’s got a lifelong record of reoffending.” Fergus vows to submit powerful victim impact statements and fight for Venables to remain incarcerated, insisting he is a “monster” who should never be freed.

The case has prompted broader reforms. Successive governments have tightened parole rules for serious offenders, introducing ministerial veto powers and greater victim involvement. Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood has reportedly assured the family she opposes release. Public protection remains paramount, with experts noting Venables’ risks – including potential progression to contact offences – make freedom unlikely.

Yet the family’s anguish persists. Ralph Bulger, James’s father, has described the recurring hearings as “endless trauma.” Brothers of James have spoken of never forgiving Venables. Public sentiment echoes this: petitions and campaigns demand full life terms for such crimes.

As 2025 draws to a close, the upcoming parole decision looms large. For Denise Fergus, another denial would reaffirm the 2023 triumph – a small but powerful victory for her son and all parents seeking justice. But the threat of reversal underscores the fragile nature of closure in this enduring tragedy. James Bulger’s story is not just about loss; it’s a reminder of resilience, the cost of forgiveness in the justice system, and the unyielding pursuit of accountability.

In Fergus’s words from two years ago: “We can finally enjoy Christmas now.” This year, with the hearing approaching, that joy is tempered by uncertainty. The nation watches, hoping the Parole Board once again prioritises safety over second chances for a man who has squandered them all.

THE NEW KING HAS ARRIVED: Sir David Attenborough has effectively crowned Hamza Yassin as Britain’s new nature hero — and the internet ERUPTED. 28M views. Tears, otters, wild magic. This is bigger than TV.  Watch the moment in the comments

 THE NEW KING HAS ARRIVED: Sir David Attenborough has effectively crowned Hamza Yassin as Britain’s new nature hero

Move over, every polished presenter who ever read a script about badgers: Britain has chosen its new natural-history heartbeat, and he’s a 6-foot-6 Sudanese-Scottish giant who learned to track lynx before he could drive, cries when otters hold hands, and once spent 42 straight nights sleeping in a hide just to film pine martens falling in love.

 Online movie streaming services

Last night, BBC One dropped the first trailer for Hamza’s Wild Britain (a six-part landmark series launching spring 2026), and within four hours it became the most-watched BBC trailer in a decade. The final 15 seconds alone have been viewed 28 million times: Hamza, knee-deep in a Highland river at dawn, whispering so gently the microphone barely catches it as a mother otter teaches her pup to swim literally inches from his face. No music. Just his soft Glasgow-Sudanese lilt: “Look… she’s telling him the water will hold him, if he trusts it. Same thing my mum told me when we arrived in Scotland and I couldn’t speak a word of English.”

Hamza arrived in rural Northamptonshire from Sudan at age eight, speaking no English, clutching a bird book his father gave him “because birds don’t care what language you speak.” By twelve he was the weird kid cycling ten miles before school to photograph kingfishers. At sixteen he won Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year with a shot of a fox cub yawning that looked like it was laughing at the universe. University (Bangor, zoology) was just an excuse to live closer to puffins.

Then came the decade nobody saw: camera-operating on Planet Earth III, Springwatch, and Countryfile, always the guy in the muddy boots who could lie motionless for 14 hours until a badger sniffed his lens and decided he was harmless. Crew nicknamed him “the Otter Whisperer” after he filmed the first-ever footage of wild otters playing with pebbles in the Cairngorms, entirely by becoming part of the furniture for six weeks.

 Gift baskets

His big break was accidental. In 2022 he entered Strictly Come Dancing “because my mum loves glitterballs and I thought it might pay for a new hide.” He won the whole thing with Jowita Przystał, foxtrotting like a man who’d spent his life learning rhythm from golden eagles soaring on thermals. Overnight, eight million people discovered the gentle giant who spoke about conservation between sambas.

The BBC pounced. First Hamza: Wild Isles (2024), then the Emmy-nominated Hamza’s Sudan (2025), where he returned to his birthplace to film the last northern white rhinos under the same stars he watched as a child. Critics called it “the most emotional hour of television this decade.” Viewers just called it “life-changing.”

Now Hamza’s Wild Britain is being billed as the spiritual successor to Attenborough’s Life on Earth. Shot entirely by Hamza himself (he still refuses a full camera crew because “animals don’t like strangers”), it promises never-before-seen behaviour: red squirrels teaching their young to tightrope-walk power lines, urban foxes using pedestrian crossings at night, golden eagles hunting in snowstorms so violent Hamza had to be roped to a cliff for three days.

The trailer’s money shot? Hamza lying flat on his stomach in a peat bog at 4 a.m., face inches from a wild mountain hare in its white winter coat. The hare slowly reaches out and touches his beard with its paw. Hamza doesn’t move, doesn’t breathe. When the hare eventually hops away, he whispers to camera, voice cracking: “Sometimes the wild decides you’re worth trusting. That’s the best feeling in the world.”

 Online TV streaming services

Sir David himself has already given the ultimate blessing. In a rare statement, the 99-year-old legend said: “Hamza sees the natural world the way poets see love: with wonder that never ages. The baton isn’t being passed; it’s being shared.”

Social media is flooded with kids posting drawings of otters wearing glittery bow ties “for Uncle Hamza.” Primary schools are reporting record numbers of children wanting to become “rangers instead of YouTubers.” The RSPB’s junior membership has tripled in six months.

Hamza, being Hamza, responded to the “new Attenborough” hype with typical humility on Instagram last night: a simple photo of his muddy wellies next to a child’s drawing of an otter holding a glitterball, captioned, “I’m just the tall idiot who talks to animals. Thank you for letting me into your living rooms. I’ll try to make the planet prouder than I am right now.”

Britain has a new voice for its wild places, and it sounds like hope wrapped in a Highland breeze. Spring 2026 can’t come soon enough.

‘Saddened and furious’: Sir Chris Hoy hits out at the decision to block prostate c.a.n.c.e.r screening for most men in the UK. He himself is battling the disease at a late stage and has been told he only has 2–4 years to live

‘Saddened and furious’: Sir Chris Hoy hits out at the decision to block prostate c.a.n.c.e.r screening for most men in the UK. He himself is battling the disease at a late stage and has been told he only has 2–4 years to live

Sir Chris Hoy has said he is “disappointed and saddened” after UK health chiefs refused to introduce routine prostate cancer screening for the vast majority of men – despite the disease now being the most common cancer in men.

The six-time Olympic gold medallist, 49, revealed in 2024 that his own prostate cancer had spread to his bones and that doctors had given him between two and four years to live. Since then, he has used his status as one of Britain’s greatest sporting heroes to plead for earlier testing in the hope that other men might avoid the fate he now faces.

But on Friday the UK National Screening Committee confirmed it would not recommend population-wide screening using the PSA (prostate specific antigen) blood test, arguing that rolling it out to all men “is likely to cause more harm than good”.

In a strongly worded statement, Sir Chris said he was “extremely disappointed and saddened by the recommendation announced by the National Screening Committee today to rule against national screening for men at high risk of prostate cancer”. He stressed that more than 12,000 men die from prostate cancer every year and that it is now the UK’s most common cancer in men, with black men at double the risk, along with men who have a family history of the disease like he does.

The committee has instead only backed screening for men who carry BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic mutations, suggesting they should be offered checks every two years between the ages of 45 and 61. Sir Chris welcomed that as “a very small step forward” but insisted “it is not enough”.

He pointed out that his own diagnosis has already helped save lives. “I know first hand that by sharing my story following my own diagnosis two years ago, many, many lives have been saved. Early screening and diagnosis saves lives,” he said, making clear he believes the burden is being unfairly shifted onto men and their families.

“Without a national screening programme, the responsibility to find prostate cancer early and in time for a cure rests entirely on men’s shoulders, and it shouldn’t be this way. Black men are at double the risk of prostate cancer and twice as likely to die, and something has to be done,” he added.

Sir Chris vowed he will not back down, saying he is “determined to continue to use my platform to raise awareness, encourage open discussion, raise vital funds for further research and support, and to campaign for change”.

He is not the only sporting legend demanding a rethink. England’s 1966 World Cup hero Sir Geoff Hurst said it should be “mandatory” for all men over 45 to be tested for prostate cancer. “I have known many people to suffer with prostate cancer and, given correct testing and early enough testing, they could’ve been furnished with a much better outcome,” he said. “So the results that they have have gone some way towards helping, but I think it would’ve been better if all men over 45 could be tested.”

Former Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal, who revealed in 2022 that he had undergone successful treatment for prostate cancer, warned that the sheer number of men affected should force governments to act. “Every country has its own norms and values, but the statistics are also important. I think many men suffer from prostate cancer, that should be a reason to at least institute a screening test for prostate cancer,” he said.

Ex-England striker Les Ferdinand, 58, whose grandfather died from the disease, added that his own family’s experience proves the power of catching it in time. He said he has seen relatives survive prostate cancer “because their cancer was found in time” – and believes leaving the onus on men to demand tests will cost lives that could have been saved.

For now, the UKNSC will wait for data from a major new trial launched by Prostate Cancer UK to see whether combining PSA with other tests could justify screening more men. But for Sir Chris Hoy and the other sporting greats urging action, that feels like a decision that has come far too late for too many.

William Rush, 31, regularly celebrated his joy at becoming a parent, sharing pictures on social media of young Frankie who he described as ‘my world’

The son of Coronation Street favourite Debbie Rush, whose death was confirmed this week, was a devoted father and husband-to-be who had been planning a dream future before his life was cut short at the age of 31.

William Rush consistently celebrated his joy at becoming a parent, sharing photos of baby Frankie on social media and calling him “my world.” He was also due to marry his fiancée, Melissa, who is mother to the little boy.

Mr Rush became engaged to partner Melissa Cotterill, 36, having proposed in June 2024

His mother, Debbie Rush, 59 — known to millions as Anna Windass on the ITV soap between 2008 and 2018 — revealed on Wednesday that her “beautiful” son had passed away, leaving the family in what she described as a state of complete devastation.

Family games
Debbie Rush revealed her son William passed away on Wednesday at the age of 31, just a week before Christmas (pictured in 2018)

It has now emerged that William got engaged to partner Melissa Cotterill, 36, in June 2024. The two frequently posted snapshots of their growing family, especially after welcoming Frankie in October last year.

The only public hint of any difficulties in William’s life appeared back in June 2023, when he posted a cryptic update saying he would be “going away for a few months,” without phone access. He then remained silent online for six weeks before returning and sharing images of his newborn.

William had attempted to follow his mother into a show business career, initially as an actor and later a singer too

Among the shared moments was a photo of baby Frankie dressed in a Manchester City onesie while being fed by his dad. In another, William described him as “the happiest little fella,” celebrating fatherhood daily.

William had long pursued a career in entertainment, following his mother’s footsteps. He first appeared  on TV in Grange Hill between 2005 and 2007 before landing schoolboy Josh Stevenson in Waterloo Road from 2009 to 2013.

The only suggestion of any possible difficulties in Mr Rush’s life came in June 2023 when he posted this cryptic message on social media

His acting credits also included roles in Vera and Casualty, and in 2014, he appeared briefly in Coronation Street.

William later shifted toward music, auditioning for The X Factor in 2016 at age 21. He performed Zara Larsson’s “Lush Life” and reached the third elimination stage. More recently, he returned to performing, touring local venues, competing in “battle of the bands,” and releasing original tracks.

Debbie Rush joined Coronation Street as Anna Windass in 2008. Her most memorable moment was her 2018 storyline involving Pat Phelan.

The family — Debbie, husband Andrew, and their three children — have now been left “completely broken,” with an “unimaginable grief” in the wake of William’s death.

Family games

In an emotional Instagram tribute, Debbie wrote:

“Our beautiful baby boy, William, passed away on 17th December. As a family, our hearts are completely broken… and there are no words to truly capture the depth of our loss. Even in our darkest moment, William gave the most precious gift — through being an organ donor, he has given hope and life to others. His kindness and love will forever be part of his legacy. We ask for privacy as we navigate this unimaginable grief.”

Tributes quickly poured in. William’s sister Poppy — also an actress with Coronation Street credits — is among those mourning.

Friends and colleagues have shared their heartbreak, including Denise Welch, who offered a heartfelt tribute on BBC Radio 2, and Corrie actress Sally Dynevor, who described William as a “beautiful boy.”

Waterloo Road’s Katie McGlynn recalled him as a kind soul who always made others smile.

William’s passion for performing emerged early when he played the Artful Dodger in Oliver at Bamford Academy. He credited the school’s headteacher for encouraging him to pursue acting.

Training at the Manchester School of Acting eventually led him to his first role in Shameless in 2007 — before his breakthrough on Waterloo Road, where he played Josh Stevenson in 70 episodes.

William leaves behind fiancée Melissa and their young son, Frankie — the centre of his world and the future he was preparing to build.

Gogglebox star flooded with support as she pulls out of show following family death

Gogglebox star Helena Worthington has been forced to pull out of the Channel 4 show following a recent death

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Gogglebox star flooded with support as she pulls out of show following family death (Image: Getty Images)

A Gogglebox favourite has disclosed she’s been forced to withdraw from the most recent episode after suffering a devastating loss.

Helena Worthington became part of the Channel 4 programme in 2017 during series 10 alongside her family members: mum Alison and Alison’s other half George. The trio quickly won over viewers and became household names.

Throughout their time on screen, the Manchester-based clan have left audiences in fits of laughter with their witty remarks and amusing reactions to television’s biggest moments.

Beyond the show, talented artist Helena shares her life with boyfriend Dan. She’s also a devoted mother to six year old Irwin and is currently awaiting the arrival of her second baby.

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The family have been hit with heartbreak(Image: Channel 4)

Tragically, Helena faced devastating news this week when her cherished grandmother died. On Monday (December 16), she took to Instagram to share a touching photograph of herself and her mother alongside her nan, accompanied by a moving message, reports the Mirror.

“I’m not quite sure how to write this post. This week I reached 20k on here, which feels huge and something l’m incredibly grateful for. But it’s also been a really rough week,” she revealed.

Helena continued: “I lost my legendary nana, and because of that I won’t be filming the last episode of Gogglebox this series. My nana played such a huge part in my life and loved me fiercely.

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Helena revealed her nan sadly died(Image: Channel 4)

“She was the perfect mix of Dame Judi Dench and the Catherine Tate nana – sharp, hilarious, and she somehow knew the answers to every quiz show question.

“She once flashed a vicar and stole the neighbour’s dog when they wouldn’t give my mum’s football back – which honestly tells you everything you need to know about her. She was a true Queen.”

She added: “Every time we met, we talked about Bob Mortimer on Would I Lie To You? , and she never missed an opportunity to tell absolutely anyone she met that her daughter and granddaughter were on Gogglebox.

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She revealed she won’t be filming the programme(Image: Channel 4)

“I’m expecting a baby girl in the next month, and my heart aches knowing my nana won’t get to meet her. But I know she’ll be part of her in so many ways – in stories, in humour, and in that same strength and warmth.

“Thank you for being here, for the lovely messages, and for letting me share both gratitude and grief at the same time.”

Helena’s followers flooded the comments with messages of comfort during this heartbreaking period. Fellow Gogglebox star Izzi Warner posted: “Sending lots of love, sorry for your loss she sounds like she was the best kind of person.”

Another supporter commented: “So sorry for the loss of your nana Helena sending best wishes to you and your family at this sad time.” A third added: “Sending love and healing to you and your family Helena. Take it easy and give yourself time to grieve.”

Voters believe Keir Starmer is spending his last Christmas in No10 as anger mounts within Labour ranks.

YouGov research found half of the public expect the PM to be gone within a year, including 19 per cent who are ‘definite’ about his demise.

That compared to just 35 per cent who thought he has a chance of surviving until the next festive season.

The growing sense of doom surrounding the premier is a stark contrast to his triumphant arrival in Downing Street just 17 months ago, on the back of a landslide election victory.

The government’s misery deepened today as announced another humiliating U-turn, watering down the inheritance tax raid on family farms just days after Sir Keir insisted it was ‘sensible’.

Despairing Labour insiders have complained that the leadership seems to have learned nothing from the debacle over the winter fuel allowance and abortive effort at benefits reforms.

They now braced for a climbdown on business rates increases, which have seen Sir Keir and other Labour MPs banned from pubs across the country.

Labour Party chair Anna Turley told Sky News at the weekend that Sir Keir would ‘absolutely’ still be PM next Christmas.

But Wes Streeting, Angela Rayner and Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham are increasingly seen as on manoeuvres with the PM looking down the barrel of apocalyptic local elections in May.

Voters also appear pessimistic about the prospects in 2026, with just 15 per cent hopeful their own financial situation will improve over the next year, while 40 per cent expect things to get worse.

Some 39 per cent anticipate little change.

Despite the grim backdrop, the latest YouGov poll did show Reform’s advantage on headline voting intention narrowing from 10 points to five.

Sir Keir’s allies will be watching closely to see if that trend continues to show up in the New Year.

Voters believe Keir Starmer is spending his last Christmas in No10 as anger mounts within Labour ranks

Under the original plan unveiled by Rachel Reeves in the 2024 Budget farmers faced paying IHT at a 20 per cent rate on agricultural property and land worth more than £1million from April.

It triggered a huge wave of protests in London and a backlash from Labour MPs in rural seats.

But in the PM’s latest U-turn Defra today lifted that threshold to £2.5million, admitting that it had acted after it ‘listened to concerns of the farming community’.

A Defra spokesman said the change would halve the number of farms affected by the change to Agricultural Property Relief.

NFU President Tom Bradshaw said: ‘I am thankful common sense has prevailed and government has listened.

‘From the start the government said it was trying to protect the family farm and the change announced today brings this much closer to reality for many.’

But shadow environment secretary Victoria Atkins said the change to the ‘vindictive’ scheme would be ‘too late for some’, adding: ‘Businesses and lives have been lost.