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‘Thought Britain’s Got Talent is meant to be a family show’

Britain’s Got Talent viewers have slammed judge Amanda Holden for her “inappropriate” outfit.

Tonight (May 31) marks the final of Britain’s Got Talent 2025. And all four judges put on their fanciest outfits for the huge night ahead.

But it seems while many found Amanda’s look amazing, some fans believe it isn’t appropriate for a family show.

Amanda wore a very showy dress (Credit: ITV

Britain’s Got Talent Amanda Holden outfit

Amanda Holden wowed in a special custom-made dress by Saint Hendrix. The outfit was styled by Karl Willett and Adele Pentland.

The 54-year-old judge wore a backless floor-length white gown. The halter-neck skin-tight dress featured a very low front – with two signature pieces drawing attention to the fact it was so low.

Along with the dress, Amanda wore her hair up in a low bun style, with a bespoke hair piece from Louise Mariette.

And she matched the outfit to silver jewellery made by The Diamond Lab.

But as Amanda stepped on stage beside her fellow judges, some fans weren’t impressed by her choice of outfit. And this isn’t the first time this year that viewers have shared their opinions on her outfit.

Viewers share their thoughts

Right before the final began, Amanda posted her outfit to her Instagram account, showing her love for the designers involved.

However, many acknowledged it was a stunning gown – just not for Saturday night on ITV.

One viewer commented: “Whilst this dress is beautiful and you look amazing, it’s a bit much for 7pm viewing and a family show at that.”

Another penned: “A bit OTT for 7pm. It’s about Britain’s Got Talent – not you Amanda.”

“Thought Britain’s Got Talent is meant to be a family show…Shocking,” another commented.

It wasn’t only those on Instagram who had an issue, as some took to X to show their annoyance at her outfit choice.

One tweeted: “Amanda put them away, we’ve all seen this before.”

“Amanda Holden’s wardrobe/dresser needs fired. What a [bleep]ing mess.”

However, others thought she looked amazing. And didn’t think it was too much for TV.

One fan wrote: “Amanda looks absolutely incredible in that white dress.”

“Amanda looks stunning tonight!” another commented.

A third clapped back to the haters: “Let Amanda wear what she wants. Stop telling people what they can and can’t wear. Mind your own business.”

The actress rose to fame by playing Kate Austen in the hit series Lost, which aired from 2004 to 2010, before going on to star in Marvel films including Ant-Man and Avengers: Endgame

Marvel star’s gruesome injuries after horror boulder ordeal saw her rushed to hospital

Lost star Evangeline Lilly shared a gruesome image of her bloodied, injured face after she fell into a boulder while on the beach. The actress, who also starred in the Marvel films, fainted while enjoying a day at the beach, falling face-first into a boulder, chipping a tooth.

The 45-year-old described the horrific accident to her followers, explaining how she was even hospitalised, with nurses and doctors left frantically trying to get to the bottom of her fall. She wrote: “I fainted at the beach. And fell face first into a boulder.”

The Ant-Man star continued: “At the hospital, the nurses and doctor went straight into action, more determined to find the cause of my blackout than to stitch up the hole punctured into my face by the rock. I smiled wryly at them. ‘You won’t find anything.’ I said with a woozy voice…”

But Evangeline’s boulder ordeal wasn’t the first time she’s dealt with random “fainting spells”, with the star coming up with a theory behind her sudden-onset episodes. The star was even checked by medical professionals who were stumped by her condition, and was tested for epilepsy.

Evangeline Lilly left medics scratching their heads after her horror fall(Image: Evangeline Lilly/Instagram)

Evangeline explained more in a Substack post: “For a good chunk of my life, I went with that – hypoglycemia. It added up — my metabolism is through the roof and I metabolise sugars, particularly, with [shocking] efficiency.”

But after her fasting glucose levels and iron were all confirmed to be in the normal range, Evangeline believes there is something more mystical at play. She added: “I have come to believe that this ‘checking out’ is a result of my little soul reaching her limit of what she feels she can cope with in this life, and she ‘leaves the building,’ so to speak.”

Evangeline elaborated on her “unmedical” theory in her post. She wrote: “That when she has had enough, when the pain becomes too great, the stresses beyond overwhelming, the shattered idealism crushing, my soul exits my body and returns to pure spirit.”

The mum-of-two rose to fame on ABC’s Lost(Image: 2005 ABC, INC.)

The Canadian star, who drew criticism during the Covid pandemic for refusing to self-isolate, also proposed changes to the healthcare system. She wrote: “I can picture hospitals where doctors are trained not just in biology, but also in philosophy and the mystic arts of healing; where patients are held not pushed along, seen not filed, heard not interrogated; where nurses are trusted not suspected, where doctors are given space to consult their deepest self when solving the hardest riddles.”

She added that her partner told her she looks like she “dies” when she has her attacks. The Reel Steel actress added: “He gets very afraid. My eyes roll back in my head, and all life leaves my body.

“He is constantly checking my nose and mouth for breath. This time was no exception. He wasn’t with me at the beach, but on the way to the hospital I blacked out again.”

Evangeline made the decision to step away from acting in June 2024, after initially rising to fame when she played Kate Austen in the ABC hit series Lost. Telling her fans with an Instagram video, the mother-of-two wrote: “I am so filled with joy and contentment today as I live out my vision.

“Praise God, I feel so grateful for my blessings. Stepping away from what seems like the obvious choice (wealth and fame) can feel scary at times, but stepping into your dharma replaces the fear with fulfilment. I might return to Hollywood one day, but, for now, this is where I belong.”

Race Across the World star Sam Gardiner has tragically died aged 24 after his VW Golf R estate came off the road, with his parents paying an emotional tribute to him

Former Race Across the World star Sam Gardiner has died(Image: BBC)

Fans of Race Across the World have joined the family and friends of the show’s star Sam Gardiner in mourning his sudden death.

The 24-year-old former contestant of the BBC programme died following a car crash in Manchester last week. It was announced on Sunday that a a ‘terrible accident’ had cost the global adventurer his life as tributes begin to pour, with those who watched his journey left stunned by the news.

Sam had been driving on the A34 in Manchester on Bank Holiday Monday when his car left the road and rolled before landing on its side. He had been working in Scotland and travelled to Stockport to attend a family birthday celebration earlier in the week.

Driving his VW Golf R estate, the landscape gardener suffered fatal injuries in the crash and was pronounced dead at hospital. Sam’s parents said he was “adored by his family” and described him as “loyal, funny and fiercely protective”. They added his time on the BBC show “opened Sam’s eyes to the wonder of adventure”.

The TV star died on Monday May 26

His family said he ‘left us far too soon’(Image: PA)

His parents continued: “He was willing to go wherever the trail might lead and he touched everyone he met on the road. He found great happiness working as a landscape gardener on the west coast of Scotland.

“Sam brought warmth, laughter and a smattering of chaos wherever he went. He leaves behind a huge hole in our hearts. We will miss him endlessly, but we’ll also remember him with smiles, tall tales, and a depth of love that will never fade”.

Following his sad death, a Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said: “We sadly must confirm that the driver of a white VW Golf R estate involved in a single vehicle collision on Monday 26 May on the A34 in Gatley has since passed away from his injuries.

“The driver, a 24-year-old man, has been named as Sam Gardiner. His family have been informed and are being supported by specially trained officers. They have asked for privacy at this terrible time.

“We’d like to thank everyone who shared our appeal and have sent their best wishes to Sam and his family.”

Sam and mum Jo were unable to compete in the final leg of the race after they ran out of money. However, Sam had described his time on Race Across the World as a “life-changing” experience. Following the devastating news, a Race Across the World spokesperson offered the their deepest condolences

“Everyone who worked with him and indeed everyone who watched Sam could see just how precious and transformative the trip was for both him and his mum, Jo,” they said. “Sam embraced the seven-week trip with an energy, love and a determination that saw the pair enjoy adventures across Mexico to Argentina making audiences fall in love with them and their special bond as a result.

“Since filming, both Sam and Jo have been an integral part of the Race Across the World cast family and on behalf of us all from the BBC, production and the rest of the cast, we would like to extend our deepest condolences to his parents, Andrew and Jo; his brothers, William and Charlie; his step mum Justine; his family and friends.”

Antiques Roadshow expert John Benjamin was on hand to deliver a valuation on a pair of drop earrings and a sapphire ring

On Sunday’s Antiques Roadshow, expert John Benjamin gave two hopeful guests some disappointing news at the stunning Wollaton Hall in Nottingham.

The episode featured locals bringing in their treasures, with a pair of guests presenting family Art Deco jewellery for valuation. At first glance inside an old tin, John discovered exquisite platinum drop earrings and a sapphire ring.

One of the guests related the tale of his mother receiving the jewels from a friend, who was acquainted with a man with connections to France.

John, upon closer inspection, found a significant alteration: “Someone who has owned these in their history has taken them to a jeweller and said: ‘I’m not sure if I like the fittings!’

Antiques Roadshow expert, John Benjamin, delivered some ‘bad news’ to two guests on Sunday’s episode of the show(Image: BBC)

“So what they’ve done is they’ve removed the original fittings from the back and they’ve soldered on these long gold sort of posts with nine carat gold screw fittings at the end”, reports Edinburgh Live.

While examining the ring, John revealed a surprising fact about its authenticity, revealing: “Here’s an interesting point, in the 1920s, when that was made, synthetic rubies and sapphires were beginning to appear on the market.”

He delivered the blow when he declared: “The sapphires on the shoulders in the ring are actually synthetic. They’re not real. So, there we are.”

During the valuation, he revealed: “Here’s the bad news, those drops, today, if they were having the original fittings on them. I think would be worth between £4,000 and £5,000.

He found a spectacular pair of drop earrings set in platinum and a sapphire ring(Image: BBC)

“But because the fittings have been changed, I think we’ve got to now drop that price to probably £2,500 to £3,000 simply because of a clumsy conversion.”

Regarding the sapphire ring, he estimated: “The ring about £1500.”

This led to one of the guests quipping: “How much is the box worth?” which prompted John to respond with a chuckle: “Priceless, absolutely priceless the box!”

In another segment, art expert Rupert Maas appraised a monochrome painting of Princess Daisy of Pless, an icon of Edwardian high society.

One of the guests explained that it was given to his mother by a friend of hers who had met a guy who spent a lot of time in France(Image: BBC)

The owner explained how her father had found the artwork in a Watford junk shop for a mere £13.50.

Rupert encouraged her to keep it on display, especially after revealing its surprising value of £2,000 to £3,000.

The owner was shocked, saying: “Really? Gosh! I was thinking you were going to say a couple of hundred,” to which Rupert acknowledged it wasn’t a huge sum but definitely a significant increase from what was paid.

It’s a tense week in Emmerdale next week as the police are closing in on Nate’s death after the discovery of his body – but will the truth ever be revealed?

John is questioned over Nate’s death next week – but he has a plan….(Image: ITV )

Fans may not yet have recovered from last week’s shock events in Emmerdale, but there’s much more to come next week – as spoilers for the ITV soap tease more drama ahead.

After Robert Sugden’s shock return, the village was rocked once again with Cain, Caleb, Chas and Ruby terrified about the revelation that a body has been found at the bottom of the lake. After learning the body had been there for months – they were left panicking that the body was Anthony’s.

However, this week it’s set to be revealed that it’s Nate’s body in the river, with a guilty John questioned about the day Nate disappeared. But OF COURSE he’s got a plan…

John is questioned over Nate’s death

When the interview is over, John hopes he’s said enough to protect Cain – who voices his suspicions that Tracy is responsible for the death of Nate.

Obviously venting after Cain’s accusation, Tracy tries to defend herself. John tries to comfort Cain reassuring him the police will find something else to focus on soon, as he formulates a plan. What does John have up his sleeve?

Things later escalate when the police arrive at Tug Ghyll with a search warrant – where they find Nate’s phone in Frankie’s playhouse leaving Tracy distraught as she’s taken in for questioning.

Mandy and Paddy are left in a panic when they realise Eve has been left in danger

With all eyes on her, an innocent Tracy desperately needs an alibi as she tells police she was at her sister Vanessa’s the day Nate was supposed to leave for Shetland. But will her sister corroborate?

Away from the Nate drama, Mandy and Paddy are left panicking when they find out Bear has left Eve in danger when he promises the littlun some sweets.

However, things take a dangerous turn when Eve gets her hands on Bear’s sleeping tablets, leaving Mandy and Paddy horrified. Will Eve be okay?

Things get heated between Tracy and Ruby

Elsewhere, there’s fury for more villagers, as Jacob is left furious when finds out Sarah hasn’t told Charity about her cancer. And there’s even more drama with Tracy as she ends up in a heated exchange with Ruby – in which she ends up slapping her across the face. But what is it about?

It seems Gabby is the only villager having a good week next week, as Vinny heads over to Kammy for help to win her back over after forgetting the anniversary of their first kiss. She’s left delighted with the romantic scenes, and Vinny’s all smiles when he realises his plan is coming together.

However, Kammy’s good deeds don’t last long when he’s heard organising to sell Clemmie’s stolen phone…

Coronation Street fans may want to get the tissues next week, as the soap are set to air the final goodbye for PC Craig Tinker – but one resident fails to attend

There’s emotional scenes in Coronation Street this week as residents gather for Craig Tinker’s funeral (Image: ITV )

It’s set to be an emotional week in Coronation Street next week as Craig Tinker gets the send off he deserves after being brutally killed. However, things are thrown into chaos when one resident fails to show up.

We’ll also see Betsy sneakily visit someone in prison, and a shock arrest for another unlikely resident.

The funeral day starts off in panic when Sarah’s concerned to discover that Kit’s already left for the day. Lisa is then forced to step in and make a heartfelt speech at the funeral after he’s still no where to be seen. But where is Kit?

Kit finds Brody injured in an alley

It’s also a tough week for Lisa – as Carla confides in Betsy that she’s worried for her partner. However, Betsy only adds to the worry as Lisa soon catches her daughter snooping through some of her old files.

If the emotions of the weeks on goings weren’t enough for Lisa, she’s set for another shock when she learns her daughter has lied about her whereabouts.

Unbeknownst to Lisa, Betsy shows best friend Lauren a picture on her phone of the letter she found containing information on her mum, Becky, and is intent on getting answers.

Lisa finds Betsy snooping through her files

She then seeks support from Lauren, who accompanies her to the prison visiting room where she prepares to meet Logan, the villainous brother of Mason and Matty Radcliffe. Betsy tells him she’s here to find out what really happened to Becky. But will Logan’s return come with the answers she needs?

However, it’s not long before Steve lets slip to Lisa and Carla that Betsy has lied about her whereabouts and in fact ordered a cab to Highfield Prison. How will Lisa and Carla react?

Betsy’s not the only one in trouble – as Maria’s shock altercation leaves her in trouble with the police.

During the Platts barbeque, Maria demands Lou empties her pockets after assuming she’s stolen money from Shona. But are Maria’s accusations correct?

Maria is arrested on suspicion of ABH(Image: ITV )

The drama later escalates when Lou is found on the living room floor with a broken coffee table – with Maria standing over her.

The police quickly arrive and tell Maria they’re arresting her on suspicion of ABH. But did she do it?

Elsewhere, there could be more upset for Todd after saying goodbye to his mother Eileen last week. He’s left gutted when Theo cancels their date – could their relationship be on the rocks?

Ncuti Gatwa shocked Doctor Who fans last night during the BBC show’s big finale, which revealed that the star would be leaving the role of The Doctor after just two series

Ncuti Gatwa has stepped down from his role as Doctor Who and is to be replaced by Billie Piper

Doctor Who star Ncuti Gatwa is set to go down in the show’s 62 year history for many reasons but one reason being as one of the few actors who served the shortest time. After just two series of the iconic sci-fi drama, Ncuti shared with fans that he was stepping down from his role as the Time Lord.

While he blamed the physical and mental demands of the show, especially his character, as the reason he quit, fans have speculated that his exit was not a planned one. Ncuti, 32, has been replaced by Billie Piper who starred in the BBC sci-fi drama alongside Christopher Ecclestone, who only lasted one series.

Billie Piper is to replace Ncuti Gatwa as Doctor Who and first starred in the series in 2005 as Rose Tyler(Image: PA)

Ncuti recorded a video explaining to fans his reason to quit and said: “It’s a role that demands a lot of you physically and emotionally and mentally. The actors playing the Doctor are only actors playing the Doctor. Unfortunately, we are mere mortals.”

He added: “I would love to have the energy and the youth to be able to do this full time for the rest of my life, but my knees are telling me it’s time.”

But die-hard fans think there may be another reason behind his exit. Taking to X, a fan named Mr Tardis wrote: “In October 2024, Ncuti Gatwa was on ‘The Graham Norton Show’ saying he was going to be filming another series of DW next year. In June 2025, he officially leaves the show and regenerates. This was never the plan. What a shame. He deserved so much better.”

Another said: “In situations like that, they’ll often shoot two different alternative scenes: one where the series continues, and one to finish things off. Ncuti may well have actually thought he’d be staying on back in October 2024, even after filming a regeneration scene just in case.”

Billie Piper is to replace Ncuti Gatwa as Doctor Who and first starred in the series in 2005 as Rose Tyler

Meanwhile another fumed: “i am so f****g sad. its one thing to see your doctor regenerate because they chose to, another to see it happen because of behind the scenes s**t. i loved literally every episode this era. ive been defending it the whole time. this.. this kinda broke me.”

Another said: “In situations like that, they’ll often shoot two different alternative scenes: one where the series continues, and one to finish things off. Ncuti may well have actually thought he’d be staying on back in October 2024, even after filming a regeneration scene just in case.”

Billie Piper is to replace Ncuti Gatwa as Doctor Who and first starred in the series in 2005 as Rose Tyler

Meanwhile another fumed: “i am so f****g sad. its one thing to see your doctor regenerate because they chose to, another to see it happen because of behind the scenes s**t. i loved literally every episode this era. ive been defending it the whole time. this.. this kinda broke me.”

Meanwhile showrunner Russell T. Davies expressed his sadness over Ncuti’s decision to step down. He chimed: “What a Doctor! Thank you, Ncuti! As his final words say, this has been an absolute joy, and the team in Cardiff and everyone who has worked on this show for the past few years, are so lucky to have been part of Ncuti’s great adventure as he shoots off to stratospheric new heights.”

He added: “Billie once changed the whole of television, back in 2005, and now she’s done it again! It’s an honour and a hoot to welcome her back to the Tardis, but quite how and why and who is a story yet to be told. After 62 years, the Doctor’s adventures are only just beginning!”

Nicola and Brooklyn Peltz-Beckham have opened up on their relationship, revealing how they deal with intense scrutiny into their lives together

Brooklyn and Nicola have opened up in a candid chat(Image: WWD via Getty Images)

Nicola Peltz and Brooklyn Beckham’s relationship has been under the intense spotlight amid rumours of a Beckham family rift. However, the actress has candidly opened up on the “inseparable” bond between the married couple despite the alleged family rift.

The duo tied the knot in a lavish wedding in 2022. The days-long celebration brought a large guest list, with David and Victoria Beckham among those beaming at the ceremony.

Speaking of their strong connection, Nicola admitted her parents had always told her that she would “feel it” when she met the right person. In this case, she explained she finally found that to be true after meeting Brooklyn.

Brooklyn and Nicola have opened up on their relationship(Image: The Morelli Brothers/Glamour Germany)

The pair opened up during a chat with Glamour. Reflecting on her parents’ words, Nicola admitted: “My parents always told me, “When you meet the right person, you’ll feel it.” As a child, I thought, “How will I ever know that?”

“But it’s true: It’s this deep feeling of security that spreads throughout your entire body, a calmness, a sense of arrival. I had never experienced that before.”

And Brooklyn gushed you have to marry your best friend, saying Nicola is “exactly that”. Nicola went on to say the “little things” are what make the pair happiest, saying social media only shows off their more extravagant moments.

The pair chatted to Glamour Germany(Image: The Morelli Brothers/Glamour Germany)

Nicola and Brooklyn also opened up about their mental health and how they deal with the intense scrutiny about being a famous couple in the public eye.

“Don’t listen to all the nonsense,” Brooklyn said when he was asked how they best protect their privacy. “Keep your head down, work hard, stay friendly. There will always be people who talk. The important thing is that we’re happy together.”

And Nicola claimed it isn’t always easy to ignore the stories that appear on social media. She admitted she would “love to deny” fake news immediately, but said it’s “not worth it”. Instead, she say she scrolls by and moves on. Brooklyn also tellingly said: “There will always be people who talk. The important thing is that we’re happy together.”

Speculation of tension between Victoria and David and their son and his wife was initially sparked by an incident over a wedding dress. Now, over three years on, LA-based Brooklyn and Nicola have now reportedly cut contact altogether.

The apparent fallout came to light after Brooklyn did not attend any of his father’s 50th birthday celebrations. He has also failed to address any of his close-knit family’s recent birthdays.

However, over the weekend, he did find the time to post a tribute to Nicola’s brother Will, labelling him his ‘bro.’

Doctor Who fans were left gobsmacked on Saturday when former star of the show, Billie Piper, was revealed as the new Doctor in news which had a profound effect on star Rylan Clark

Rylan Clark was left sobbing on Saturday after Doctor Who’s jaw-dropping twist

Rylan Clark was left sobbing on Saturday after Doctor Who’s jaw-dropping twist. In news which left the show’s legion of loyal fans stunned, former star of the sci-fi series, Billie Piper, was revealed as the new Doctor when current Time Lord, played by Ncuti Gatwa, regenerated.

Taking to Instagram with tears streaming down his face after watching the episode in which Billie, who played the Doctor’s companion, Rose Tyler, from 2005 – 2006 returned to the show in stunning style, Rylan said: “I’ll probably look back at this with real embarrassment, but I’ve just watched Doctor Who and I don’t know what’s just happened. Omg, it’s unbelievable. What a turn out.” Sharing the emotional post, show creator Russell T Davies replied to the TV presenter, saying: “Love you Rylan” with a big red heart emoji.

Rylan Clark had tears streaming down his face after Billie Piper was revealed as the new Doctor (Image: rylan/Instagram)

Rylan popped up in Doctor Who two weeks ago, portraying the host of the Interstellar Song Contest, which is akin to a galactic version of the Eurovision Song Contest, on the BBC’s iconic show.

Revealing that showrunner Russell had given him a special role on the programme, he said on Instagram: “So I have been keeping that secret for a year. I am so excited. I am a massive, massive Whovian. I love Doctor Who. I’ve loved it for years. And when I got that call I was so overwhelmed and I’m not gonna lie, I did have a little tear. Maybe a few more tears. It was the best experience of my life.”

Meanwhile, following her exit from Doctor Who, Billie, 42, went on to make cameo appearances in the series in 2008 and 2010. The actress previously returned for the 50th anniversary special as a separate character, but was still credited as Rose Tyler.

The huge news regarding her latest epic casting comes just days after speculation that Ncuti was preparing to step down from the role.

Speaking about her return, Billie said: “It’s no secret how much I love this show, and I have always said I would love to return to the Whoniverse as I have some of my best memories there, so to be given the opportunity to step back on that Tardis one more time was just something I couldn’t refuse.”

Meanwhile, in a statement released by the BBC, Ncuti said: “You know when you get cast, at some point you are going to have to hand back that sonic screwdriver and it is all going to come to an end, but nothing quite prepares you for it.

Billie says she ‘couldn’t refuse’ the chance to go back to the sci-fi series(Image: PA)

“This journey has been one that I will never forget, and a role that will be part of me forever. There are no words to describe what it feels like to be cast as the Doctor, nor are there words to explain what it feels like to be accepted into this iconic role that has existed for over 60 years and is truly loved by so many across the globe.

“The fans are truly the final character and beating heart of this show, and I can’t thank the Whoniverse, and the Whovians, enough for welcoming me in and making this such a touching experience.

“I’ve loved every minute of it, but now is the time to hand over the keys to that beloved blue box and let someone else take control and enjoy it every bit as much as I have. I’ll truly miss it, and forever be grateful to it, and everyone that has played a part in my journey as the Doctor.”

Taking to social media, fans couldn’t contain their joy when Billie was revealed as Ncuti’s replacement. One said: “OMFG just watched the final episode of Doctor Who. Spoiler alert. Billie Piper as the Doctor. WTF.”

A second added: “Billie Piper as the 16th Doctor wasn’t what I expected but hey it is something!” Meanwhile, another declared: “Billie Piper in Doctor Who. In the year 2025. not on my bingo cards.”

Every year, the Royal Family takes part in the traditional Boxing Day shoot at the Sandringham estate in Norfolk – but it is reported there are fears the annual event might not be able to take place this year

King Charles at Sandringham(Image: Jordan Peck|Getty Images)

There are fears a major annual royal tradition is facing the axe this year – reportedly leaving King Charles unimpressed. Every year during their Christmas break at the Sandringham estate, some members of the Royal Family head out on Boxing Day for the traditional Boxing Day shoot in the vast grounds.

The tradition has been upheld for many years and has been a longstanding activity during a Sandringham Christmas. However, it has been reported that this year’s shoot could be under threat due to a shortage of pheasants on the estate – and it could be axed if numbers stay low.

Sandringham House on the Sandringham estate, where the royals spend Christmas (Image: NurPhoto via Getty Images)

According to The Sun, several factors have led to a shortage of the birds on the site, meaning there may not be enough of them to host a shoot. Traditionally, the pheasants are raised on-site but the King is reportedly against importing birds from breeders to make up the numbers.

A source said: “It was a total cock-up. No birds, no bang, just red faces. The King wasn’t having it.” Buckingham Palace declined to comment.

The hunting tradition stems back generations, and after inheriting a passion for it from his parents, King Charles would regularly host shooting parties on the Sandringham estate during his student days.

The Royal Family at Sandringham on Christmas Day last year (Image: AFP via Getty Images)

The pastime angers animal rights campaigners and there a strict privacy rules on the estate. Shoots now take place on more isolated areas of farmland and marsh, which are not overlooked by public roads or footpaths.

As a keen environmentalist, many have wondered if the King will bring an end to the traditional shoot. Royal expert Duncan Larcombe previously told OK!: “The days of the royals blasting birds out of the sky on Boxing Day for the thrill of it may be numbered.

“The family are more on-message these days, and I think the King will know the public is watching closely.

“For the time being, there will still be shoots, though not on the scale of Prince Philip shooting thousands of birds in a season.”

Still, with more than 200 people said to be employed on the estate, including gamekeepers and farmers, Duncan added: “Employment in rural areas is a big thing for Charles, so that’s one factor he will think carefully about.”