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PREDATOR
conned me out SHOCK
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of THOUSANDS REAL LIFE

Festive fashion
BARGAINS STYLE
IN THE
What will she reveal about
Kate and William?
AISLES

YES,
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 IT’S ALL
ABOUT
YOU!
✱ ON THE COVER

Your NEWS
4 What a week! Including, Eamonn’s
Christmas peace offering and
Gavin and Stacey reunite!
6 ✱ Cover story: Fergie’s tell-all
8 ✱ Celebrity: Twelve hunks of Christmas
11 The Royal Insider
12 Celebrity: Showbiz’s most shocking
moments in 2025

S
14 Talking about: Festive films
arah Ferguson
has been booted
out of Royal Lodge on Your LIFE
25 Feel great with Annie Deadman
the Windsor Estate by 26 ✱ Boost your health
royal orders and, for the first time in years, will live away as you sleep
from her ex-husband, the disgraced Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor. So, 28 Why festive traditions
are good for you
what’s next for her? Our royal editor Emily Andrews lifts the lid on what the 32 ✱ Real life: ’Tis the
Royal Family might expect – and it doesn’t make for easy reading. The Prince season for flying solo
and Princess of Wales could be in for a(nother) bumpy ride. Also this week, 36 ✱ Woman Stamp
Out Scams!
say hello to this year’s 12 hunks of Christmas (page 8) – it’s a festive campaign: Conned
P32 Home alone this year
favourite! And, grab amazing beauty buys which will save you a fortune out of £3,000 by a Tinder predator
(page 22). Plus! Woman is on a mission to try to stamp out 58 View from the back
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NEWSLETTER on page 36. The more we learn Your LOOKS

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US!
WOMAN 3
 been up to in the last seven days
Here’s what the stars have

Eamonn’s festive
peace offering
E
amonn Holmes has revealed ‘I started counselling when Eamonn
he sent his estranged wife and I separated, and I’m still having it.
Ruth Langsford his best wishes It is very powerful and very useful. It
in a Christmas peace offering gives me tools to deal with things.’ The
amid their ongoing divorce. Loose Women star continued, ‘The end
The TV presenters, who had been of a very long relationship takes a lot of
together for 27 years and married unravelling. Counselling helps you move
for 14, ended their relationship in May on from it, to not be held back.’ She
2024. In a new interview, the GB News added, ‘I definitely see light in the future
presenter, 66, said, ‘I wish Ruth all the where I didn’t before. Before, I saw
best, she deserves it.’ darkness and was thinking, “Oh my
Eamonn went on to reveal his God, what’s
Christmas plans, sharing that he will going to
be spending the festive period with his happen?” but
girlfriend Katie Alexander, who at 43 is now, the fear
22 years his junior. ‘I’m going to be with has gone,
Katie this Christmas,’ he said. Eamonn, because what
who regularly spends the holidays in do you do? Do
his native Belfast, added, ‘I’ve never not you crumble?
been in the UK for Christmas, but maybe Do you lay
one year I’ll go away abroad.’ down and die?’
The star’s comments come after Ruth, Like Gloria
65, confessed that she has been seeing a Gaynor says in
therapist since their marriage breakdown. her song, Ruth,
Speaking to woman&home, she said, you will survive. Eamonn with Katie, and
(right) with Ruth in 2019

HOLLY PLEADS GUILTY KATE LOOKING FOR A ‘SINGLE DAD’ @BROOKLYNPELTZBECKHAM, @MCGUINNESS.PADDY, SPLASHNEWS.COM
YOUTUBE @GREATCOMPANY, WAITROSE, SIMON EMMETT, INSTAGRAM

Former This Morning star Holly Good Morning Britain’s 2024. Talking to Jamie Laing
WORDS: ARIANA LONGSON. PHOTOS: ALAMY, BACKGRID, GETTY,

Willoughby (above) pleaded guilty to Kate Garraway teased that on his Great Company podcast,
driving without due care and attention she wants a ‘single dad’ as the celebrity, 58, admitted,
after she knocked a rider off their she opened up about dating, ‘I wouldn’t like to think that I’d
scooter near her London home, resulting following the loss of husband never had romantic love in my
in them suffering a fractured neck. Derek Draper in January life again. I think that would
The court was shown footage of be rather a sad way to go
Holly turning right into a side street through life, wouldn’t it?’
in her Mini Cooper without indicating Then she said, ‘I’m not there
before a rider on a white Piaggio yet. I don’t know if anybody
scooter, who was overtaking her would want me,’ Kate went
at the time, at around 20mph, on to joke, ‘Talk to your
was sent crashing to the ground. mates, find out if any
The presenter, 44, was fined of their dads are single –
£2,444, including court costs, and that’s your task, Jamie!’
given six points on her licence.

4 WOMAN
 Celebrity

PET OF
THE
WEEK
How adorable
is Brooklyn
Peltz Beckham’s
furball Label?
We’d never
stop cuddling
the cutie!

GAVIN AND
STACEY REUNITE!
Gavin & Stacey’s Joanna
Page and Mathew Horne
have joined forces once
more this Christmas,
despite the hit show’s
finale last year. The pair
reunited to film a festive
advert for Waitrose, in which and what fun we had,’
they try some of the grocer’s said Joanna. Mathew added,
Yuletide products and help ‘It was brilliant to be back on
solve common Christmas set with Joanna – it’s become
food quandaries. a Christmas tradition.’
‘You thought you’d seen It’s not quite a new episode,
the last of us! Well, we’re back but we’ll take it!

Men of
THE WEEK
NEXT BOND THEME
TUNE REVEALED
Oasis has reportedly been lined up to
record the next James Bond theme tune.
In August, it was announced British
screenwriter Steven Knight, 65, would
write the latest film, but not who would
play 007. Now, Amazon MGM is said
to have the iconic Britpop band in their
sights to record the soundtrack. It
would be a huge move for the Gallagher
brothers, who reunited this summer What’s better than one
after 16 years, bringing an end to hunk? Two! Joe Wicks
their long-running feud. It would also and Paddy McGuinness
mark the first time in over 15 years showed off their ripped
that the band has released new music. bodies, leaving us all
hot under the collar.

WOMAN 5
 Is it all over for the former Duchess of York, or will she risk royal
wrath by spilling her truth, asks royal editor Emily Andrews

H
er new children’s book panicking, and has
has been pulped, her become a virtual recluse
title has been removed, in the past weeks.
and now she’s got to ‘She has nothing left
leave Royal Lodge. to lose now, so she could
Sarah Ferguson has always been easily sell another
the ultimate royal survivor, bouncing autobiography in the
back from scandals that would have USA – after all, it
sunk many other people. worked for Harry!
But now she has been deeply damaged ‘She has to make all
by her friendship with the convicted her own money now to
paedophile Jeffrey Epstein. support herself. Andrew
Her ex-husband, henceforth to be will be looked after by
known as Andrew Mountbatten- his brother, but she has
Windsor, has been stripped of his to think of herself.’
dukedom, his royal titles and his HRH. Another option is a
And both of them blockbuster
are being forced out of
the 30-room grace-
‘Sarah has TV interview
– again, for an
and-favour mansion
that they share in
nothing American audience – as Fergie
has previously done with Oprah
Windsor, after public left to Winfrey. US broadcasters are

lose now’
outrage at their understood to be willing to
perceived freeloading. pay a six-figure sum for a
Andrew will move to soul-baring interview with
a new property on the Sandringham the former Duchess of York.
Estate after Christmas (which is But that prospect would seriously
convenient timing, as both he and Fergie worry courtiers at Buckingham Palace.
have been banned from the traditional Any TV interview with
royal celebrations in Norfolk). Enraged royals Sarah is bound to attract
But Sarah, 66, will not move in with If such a deal were struck, it raises a huge audience hoping to
him. Although she has stood by her the prospect of a repetition of her see her answer questions
man since their divorce in 1996, this ex-husband’s disastrous Newsnight about her husband’s role in
will finally see the couple part ways. interview with Emily Maitlis – which the scandal involving his
I’m told she may move to Portugal, arguably precipitated the House of friendship with convicted
to be nearer to her younger daughter York’s downfall. sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Princess Eugenie and grandsons And an interview – or a tell-all book And, given William and
August, four, and Ernest, two. – would seriously enrage the King and Kate’s part in seeing
But I’m also told that she may be the Prince and Princess of Wales. Andrew stripped of his titles,
considering another reinvention in William and Kate, in particular, have she could well turn on them.
America – and a ‘warts and all’ memoir been keen for the ‘Andrew problem’ to She would inevitably be
revealing the Firm’s inner secrets. be neutralised before they become asked about her version
As one source said to me, ‘Sarah has King and Queen – they do not want of events surrounding
been left devastated by the fallout from any more shame or dishonour brought Andrew’s relationship
the Epstein email scandal. She’s on edge, upon the Royal Family. with Virginia Giuffre.

6 WOMAN
 Cover story

Sarah and Andrew must leave Royal

Lodge, the Windsor home they share

In 2022, Andrew reached an out-of-court

settlement with Virginia, who had accused
the then prince of sexual abuse.
The settlement, which I understand was
paid for by the late Queen and the current
King, came with no admission of guilt, and
Andrew has always denied the allegations.
Virginia died by suicide earlier this year,
aged 41, just months before the publication
of her memoir, Nobody’s Girl.

Shocking emails
Fergie was dragged into the scandal when it
was revealed earlier this year that she called
Epstein a ‘supreme friend’ in a 2011 email and
apologised for linking him to paedophilia, after
she’d publicly denounced him. Further emails
reportedly showed that she asked him for large
sums of money as her debts mounted – and
he had previously paid off some of her bills.
Following the revelations, she was dropped
by all her charities, copies of her children’s book
Flora & Fern: Kindness along the Way have
been pulped, and ITV has dropped her from
shows like Loose Women and This Morning.
Certainly her daughters – Princesses
Beatrice and Eugenie, who have kept their
royal titles – are worried about both parents’
mental health, and are keeping a close eye.
But I wouldn’t necessarily expect them
to spend Christmas Day with their parents,
especially if they are invited to Sandringham.
They have their own positions to protect, and
King Charles has made it clear that they can
continue to represent the Firm, alongside their
own jobs (Beatrice runs her own tech firm and
Eugenie works for art gallery Hauser & Wirth).
Fergie’s friends have consistently defended
her. One says, ‘Sarah admits that she knew
Epstein, and the reality is that she cultivated
a friendship because of his wealth. He was
PHOTOS: SHUTTERSTOCK, GETTY

generous, and she has always been dreadful

with money. But that doesn’t mean she knew
what he was doing behind closed doors.’
Yet the Epstein scandal shows no sign of
waning in the US, with more emails due to
be published. Is this finally one scandal too
many for Fergie to come out on top again?

WOMAN 7
 ZAC EFRON LUCIEN THEO JAMES
All we want
for Christmas
LAVISCOUNT With a chiselled
body like this,
Emily in Paris’
is Zac! The Lucien, 33, The White
38-year-old can jingle Lotus actor
is the perfect our bells this
package. festive season.

It may be chilly outside, but these top

INSTAGRAM @BOSS/ PHOTOGRAPHY BY MERT AND MARCUS, @ORLEBARBROWN, @ZACEFRON, @ITS_LUCIEN,
WORDS: ARIANA LONGSON. PHOTOS: DAVID VENNI/COURTESY OF MEN’S HEALTH UK, BACKGRID, GETTY,

@JACKGREALISH, @CHRISHEMSWORTH, @GORKA_MARQUEZ, @OLLYMURS

JONATHAN
BAILEY GREALISH
MO SALAH Bridgerton’s We’re glad
We wouldn’t Jonathan, that footballer
mind footballer 37, has been Jack, 30, isn’t
Mo, 33, wishing named the all wrapped
us a Merry sexiest man up. Look at
Christmas… alive this year! those abs!
 Celebrity

SIR DAVID ANTHONY

MÁRQUEZ BECKHAM JOSHUA
Strictly’s Gorka, We wonder if A topless AJ,
35, has our Victoria would 36, is at the top
heart this mind us stealing of our Christmas
Christmas. Let’s Becks, 50, for a list. Imagine
hope he doesn’t quick kiss under finding him under
give it away… the mistletoe? the tree!

less talents are certainly heating things up!

OLLY MURS BEN CHRIS

Not only
is singer Olly,
SHEPHARD HEMSWORTH
At 51, This The things
41, easy on Morning and we’d do to find
the eye, he’d Tipping Point hunky Chris, 42,
also provide star Ben has in our stocking
some festive definitely on Christmas
entertainment! still got it. morning…

WOMAN 9
 Columnist

ROYAL
INSIDER By royal editor Emily Andrews
The King with Sir David at RHS
Chelsea Flower Show 2025

WHAT’S THE LATEST?

THE ROYAL As if being knighted wasn’t enough,
now Sir David ‘Golden Balls’ Beckham

KEEPING IT REAL
is helping to create next year’s RHS

T
Chelsea Flower Show garden for The
King’s Foundation, the ‘Curious Garden’.
o most of us, actor The former England football captain,
Sophie Winkleman will 50, will support fellow patron Alan
forever be known as Titchmarsh and horticulturist Frances
Peep Show’s Big Suze Tophill and the Royal Horticultural
and/or half-sister of Society (RHS) to design the garden.
The Traitors and Strictly’s Claudia. Sir David, who has shared his passion
Married to Lord Frederick Windsor for gardening and beekeeping, will be
– son of Prince and Princess Michael involved in the project through his role
of Kent, second cousin to King Charles as an ambassador for the Foundation.
and 54th in the line of succession – she’s He looked very dapper at this year’s
a mainstay at Royal Ascot and Windsor. Chelsea, so I can’t wait to see what he
But she very much tells it as it is – comes up with. Will there be footballs
and doesn’t hold back! Promoting her allowed in the garden, I wonder?
latest role in the BBC drama Wild
Cherry, she says, ‘The more I get to
know the Royal Family, the more I get which helps men with suicidal thoughts.
that their lives are total hell and that ‘It’s not a positive to come out of it at all, but
level of unasked-for fame is a form of Lady Sophie WIndsor it makes you so much more aware that the
torture,’ she says. says what she thinks exterior of someone can be very different
‘None of them went on Pop Idol or from what’s going on inside,’ says Sophie.
something to be famous. To have that sort the fact they add huge prestige and heft to
of blinding spotlight in your face from when whatever cause they’re supporting. The

From
you’re born, not knowing quite whom you King’s Trust is the greatest engineer for
can trust, not knowing if someone’s going social mobility in Britain. Princess Anne

the palace
to betray you, people writing lies about does nearly 500 engagements per year. The
you the whole time, is just brutal. I feel for Duchess of Edinburgh has just come back
them all. I don’t think a life with that much from Sudan, meeting surgeons who
scrutiny and pressure is remotely healthy, operate on violently raped toddlers Something is causing an almighty stench on
but they have no choice,’ she also remarked. – that is traumatic, serious work. the Sandringham Estate… The King plans to
Sophie, 45, is a favourite of the King I truly think my communist have a ‘manure lagoon’ or slurry pit – the size
and her daughters Maud, 12, and Isabella, grandfather would be convinced of three Olympic swimming pools – but locals
nine, are playmates of Prince George and by my arguments in favour of are kicking up a stink. Eyebrows have been
Princess Charlotte. the Royal Family.’ raised as the proposed pit is less than
And although she does Yet, she and the 1km from the Prince and Princess
much charity work herself Kent family have of Waleses’ country home,
– with the Big Issue and also experienced Anmer Hall. The ‘lagoon’
Age UK – she says her tragedy. Last year will be used to store animal
in-laws are amazing at using her brother-in-law manure used by the
their platform for good. Thomas Kingston, surrounding farming
‘The senior royals work the husband of fields as fertiliser. I’m
really hard with thousands Frederick’s sister Lady not sure I’d be happy
of charities in Britain and Gabriella, died by suicide.
PHOTOS: GETTY

if my dad planned
around the world, behind the Frederick has since that for next to
scenes as well as front-facing. started working with my house! Anmer Hall might have a
There’s no getting away from a charity, James’ Place, smelly neighbour in future
d
Sophie with husban
Lord Frede ric k
WOMAN 11
 CLAUDIA AND TESS
QUIT STRICTLY
After two decades of dazzling dresses
and glitterball trophies, Strictly Come
Dancing hosts Tess Daly and Claudia
Winkleman are waltzing away from the
BBC series. Fans were stunned by the
news in October – and left wondering if
their exit was the final nail in the show’s
coffin after a string of scandals. With
Claudia now the queen of TV thanks to
The Traitors, plus an upcoming chat
show, and Tess eyeing her own projects,
the duo will sign off with their final ‘Keep
Dancing’ in this year’s Christmas special.
Rumours are already swirling over who

Showbiz’s most
will slip into their sparkly shoes...

We look back at the unforgettable celebrity scandals

and shake-ups from the past 12 months

ITV’S COST-CUTTING
WORDS: GERAINT LLEWELLYN. PHOTOS: GETTY,

Lorraine and Loose Women fell victim to brutal

budget cuts this year, as ITV slashes its schedule
in a desperate bid to save cash. Lorraine Kelly
SHUTTERSTOCK, BBC, SPLASH NEWS

admitted she was ‘upset’ by the shake-up, which

will see her show cut down to just 30 minutes and
replaced for 22 weeks of the year by Good Morning
Britain. Loose Women has also seen its shows
dramatically cut and will now only air for 30 weeks.
The studio audience will also be scrapped to save
money, while some panellists fear for their jobs.

12 WOMAN
 Celebrity

LILY ALLEN’S
BREAK-UP ALBUM
Seven years since her last album,
Lily stunned fans in October with
West End Girl, inspired by the
collapse earlier this year of her
marriage to Stranger Things star
David Harbour. Jaw-dropping,

MASTERCHEF AXE
John Torode and Gregg Wallace were both
explicit tracks saw Lily sing about
sex toys, an open marriage and
a mistress named ‘Madeline’.
sacked in July after 20 years of hosting the Fans are trying to work out
BBC cookery show. After Gregg stepped which events might really have
away from the series last year, an inquiry happened and which are an
upheld 45 of 83 allegations, including one emotional response. Lily hinted
of ‘unwelcome physical contact’. He vowed that she has since mended her
‘not to go quietly’, and is now suing his relationship with
former bosses for £10K. The report also her ex and,
found that John used an offensive racist despite her
term – although he stressed that he had ‘no harsh lyrics,
recollection’ of doing so. The BBC decided was not
to air the duo’s final series, calling it the seeking
‘right thing to do’ for the contestants, but revenge
two amateur chefs asked to be edited out. against him.

BBC BREAKFAST PROBLEMS

The BBC’s bright and breezy morning show was
rocked by a bullying scandal this year that led to
hosts Naga Munchetty and Charlie Stayt being
put under review for their behaviour. Bosses

GINO D’ACAMPO’S DOWNFALL

After years of being ITV’s go-to cheeky Italian
launched an investigation in June, with claims
that ‘nightmare Naga’ would lose her cool over
the smallest issue behind the scenes, and
chef, innuendo-loving Gino was dropped in scolded an intern for the way they spread
February after being accused of inappropriate Marmite on her toast. Meanwhile, show boss
behaviour. Over 40 colleagues claimed the star, Richard Frediani was put on leave during the
who denies the allegations, was aggressive, probe, before being cleared of all accusations,
abusive and sexually inappropriate on set, while which reportedly
ITV was accused of ignoring the complaints for left Naga and
years. Gino was axed from cooking on This Charlie ‘enraged’.
Morning, while Family Fortunes, which he was Meanwhile, the
hosting, and his travel programmes were removed review continues,
from the schedules. Gino’s restaurant chain also with neither Naga
faced closure due to huge debts, before being nor Charlie making
saved at the last minute. With few prospects in the a public comment.
UK, he is said to be planning a move to Australia.

WOMAN 13
 Three in 10 of us would watch them all year round if we could, but
with their picture-perfect winter wonderland backdrop, we ask…

I
f your house is more The
Nightmare Before Christmas
than The Holiday during the
festive season, you might prefer
‘THERE’S SOMETHING ABOUT A
to give Christmas movies a wide
berth. When the kids are on the verge ROMANTIC TALE AT CHRISTMAS’
of killing each other and your in-laws Kelly Rose Bradford, I have them on in the background,
have definitely overstayed their 52, lives with her adult son. and they have become an essential
welcome, the last thing you feel like A few years ago, I would have part of my Chrimbo countdown.
doing is to curl up on the sofa and rather cancelled Christmas than Yes, I know the plots are thinner
watch a Christmas film – especially endured a festive flick. I am not a than Santa’s oldest stocking, and
when it’s mostly all smug couples schmaltzy, romcom type at all, and the fake snow and terrible sets
falling in love, or picture-perfect in midlife, I thought I was entirely would have made Crossroads look
families in their over-the-top, over the notion of boy meets girl, like an Academy Award-winning
decked-out Christmassy homes. living happily ever after. So what production – but my goodness,
On the other hand, it might be just changed? Well, I tuned into one – those awkward glances across ice
the right antidote and source of just to gather evidence to mock a rinks or Christmas markets and
escapism when the reality of the friend who lived for Yuletide yarns, will-they-won’t-they moments just
festive season gets a bit too much. and would be glued to Hallmark’s melt my usually steely reserve.
Love them or hate them, Christmas Christmas stream from October. For all their predictability and
movies certainly seem to divide I somehow ended up immersed nonsense, there’s just something
opinion. So we ask: are they a bit of in a winter wonderland love story, about watching a romantic tale in
harmless fun, or a tired formula we and by the time the credits rolled, a Christmas setting that not only
could do without? my cockles were well and truly tugs on the heartstrings, but also
warmed. I can’t remember the gives you a bit of hope and joy –
exact film – and, to be honest, and I challenge any naysayer to
once you’ve seen one, you’ve watch one and prove me wrong!
seen them all – but now, Because no matter how much we
whenever roll our eyes at sentimentality and
I’m writing cheese, we’d all secretly enjoy a
cards or little bit of Hallmark-style festive
wrapping romance in real life, wouldn’t we?
gifts, A lingering kiss under twinkling
Christmas lights, the thought of
finding our one true love in a
gingerbread latte-scented coffee
shop… Something even proudly
single, hearts and flowers-hating
old cynics like me can’t resist!

14 WOMAN
 Talking about

‘PASS ME THE SICK BUCKET’

Gillian Harvey, 47, lives with in-laws? Who’s doing
her husband Ray and their the washing-up?
five children. I don’t necessarily
I’m all for curling up in front of need to see family fall-outs and lumpy
a roaring fire with a bucket of gravy, but an image few of us can
popcorn, but I have no intention emulate surely adds to feelings of
of watching any cutesy Christmas sadness, even loneliness, for those
movies this year. Don’t get me wrong, whose Christmas looks very different.
I’m a big fan of the season, but the I haven’t always been such a Grinch
saccharine-sweet Christmas fare rolled – I used to quite like watching Love
out by major networks this time of year Actually as a seasonal treat. But what
gets a big thumbs down from me. seemed cutesy in 2003 looks, well,
For starters, it’s not much fun a little bit odd through modern eyes.
watching a movie where the end Anyone for a bit of festive in-office
is obvious from the start. Big City sexual harassment? I don’t think so.
Girl – bonus points if she’s Sickly movies might aim to create
wearing heels in the snow – festive bliss, but I prefer a decent drama
reluctantly travels to her while I digest my Christmas pudding.
hometown and meets Small
Town Guy, who embodies
everything she’s spent
the last decade trying
to get away from. But,
over several mishaps
and meet-cutes, she
falls in love and
realises the folly of her
ways. Cue mushy music,
a romantic montage, and
maybe even a winter
wedding. Someone pass CELEB PICK
me the sick bucket. Loose Women
Then there’s the presenter Christine
portrayal of the family Lampard admits she loves Elf
Christmas, with and the old-school Santa Claus
everyone gladly film, starring Dudley Moore.
gathering for a She also avoids The
golden turkey Snowman at all costs
dinner. Where are – she confesses it
the squabbling children? traumatised her
The complaining as a child!

‘Life is rarely that simple’ WORDS: FRANCES LEATE. PHOTOS: ALAMY, GETTY, SHUTTERSTOCK,

Psychologist Ruth offering us an escape from

Cooper-Dickson the pressures of adulting.
COLUMBIA PICTURES, TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX, UNIVERSAL

STAFF PICK says: ‘Christmas But they are often centred

Our Book Editor Zoe movies can give us on social connection, which
West loves a cheesy Christmas a sense of nostalgia, which is can highlight the sense of
film to get in the festive mood. a natural mood-booster, often loneliness many people feel
‘I recently watched B&B Merry and tied to memories, rituals and at this time of year.
STUDIOS, AMANDA PAGE PHOTOGRAPHY

Renovation Romance, which I really simpler times. So even if the It’s important to remember
enjoyed. Any Christmas film with Chad reality of Christmas for you is that Christmas movies are
Michael Murray is a winner. I also love the far from perfect, Christmas rarely true to life, and can
recent Lindsay Lohan movies, and A Castle movies can create a sense of give people the false idea
for Christmas with Brooke Shields. And, warmth and belonging. They that if I had money, everything
of course, there’s The Holiday – make us feel childlike again, would be better, or that if
the best Christmas film ever. with their simple storyline I found a man for Christmas,
Nothing beats Cameron approach and messages of everything would be OK.
Diaz turning up at that renewal and transformation, Sadly, life is rarely that simple.’
snowy cottage.’

WOMAN 15
 Style | Beauty | Health

FROM
£6

METALLIC
MUST-HAVES
Nothing shouts Christmas more than glitter,
and these metallic make-up must-haves
will make the perfect party plus-ones.
Whether you fancy going all out on glitzy
WORDS AND STYLING: ANNIE MILROY. PHOTO: RICHARD BUTCHER

silver eyeshadow or want to add a flattering

sweeping of shimmer to your cheeks,
these grown-up glow-getters are ready
to sparkle the night away with you.
Clockwise from top left: Nails Inc London Nail Polish in Ring
Light Ready, £9, nailsinc.com; Collection Cosmetics Filter Finish
Holographic Liquid Highlighter, £5.99, Superdrug; TIRTIR
Waterism Lip Plumper, £12, Boots; Collection Cosmetics
Diamond Shine Highlighter in Pink Shimmer, £5.99, Superdrug;
Morphe Misbehaved Mini Dripglass Lip Gloss (from trio set),
£18, uk.morphe.com; Orly Nail Polish in Kick Glass, £12.99,
Superdrug; NYX Professional Makeup Buttermelt Highlighter in
U Butta Werk, £9.99, Superdrug; Morphe ChromaPlus 6-Pan
Eyeshadow Palette in Cyber Chrome, £16, uk.morphe.com

WOMAN 17
 PERFECT FOR
CHRISTMAS
DAY

Dress, £25, sizes 8-22, Cardigan, £18, sizes 8-22, Skirt, £28, sizes 6-26,
Nutmeg at Morrisons Nutmeg at Morrisons Tu Clothing at Sainsbury’s

Style in the
Add these bargain buys to your weekly
supermarket shopping list

Pyjamas, £15, sizes 6-24,

George at Asda COMPILED BY: LAUREN GOODWIN-GRAFTON

Boots, £28, Trousers, £18, sizes 6-24, Dress, £50, sizes 6-20
Tu Clothing at Sainsbury’s George at Asda F&F at Tesco

18 WOMAN
 Fashion

Blouse, £19.50, sizes 6-20,

F&F at Tesco

Skirt, £16, sizes 8-22,

Nutmeg at Morrisons

Jumper, £22,
skirt, £14, both
sizes 8-24, and
tights, £5, all
George at Asda;
glasses and
earrings,
stylist’s own
Jumper, £18, sizes 8-22,
Nutmeg at Morrisons

CATWALK
INSPIRED

Blouse, £20,
Jumper, £25, sizes 6-20 sizes 6-22, Tu Clothing
Bag, £22, George at Asda F&F at Tesco at Sainsbury’s

WOMAN 19
 Refresh your style with accessories
that won’t break the bank

£30, Very £29.99, publicdesire.com

STUDDED
£23.99, Boohoo £45, Next
FLATS
Metallic studs and eyelets will give
an otherwise simple pair of shoes a
high-fashion spin that will make a
stylish footnote to everything from
jeans to a floaty skirt. Stick to a
warm, neutral colour palette
to ensure they go with
everything.
£40, Schuh £35, Raid at Urban Outfitters

REAL
LEATHER

£50, M&S £39.99, pullandbear.com

£39, Next £37.99, H&M

Shoes, £45,
Next; blazer
and culottes,
stylist’s own

£44.99, reserved.com £46, M&S

20 WOMAN
 Fashion

BOW
Dress, £80, sizes
8-18, bag, £45, both
Coast; earrings,
stylist’s own BAGS
A clutch or top-handle piece
adorned with an oversized
£39, River Island
ribbon will be an extra special
finishing touch to your LBD or
tailored suit for a celebration.
Opt for velvet fabrics and

FROM diamanté gems for even

£6
more glam factor.

£29.99, sixstories.co.uk £14, George at Asda

£29, JFY at debenhams.com £26, Next

KNITTED
TRIANGLE
SCARVES
This cosy iteration of summer’s silky
neckerchief is more compact and
easier to wear than a traditional £15, £6,
winter scarf and will add a preppy Boohoo Primark
feel to your look. Knot loosely
over your coat and you’ll
be all set.

REAL
CASHMERE
COMPILED BY: MATILDA STANLEY

£19, £24,
River John £22, £27.99,
Island Lewis Next Zara

WOMAN 21
 Whatever your budget, treat yourself

SPLURGE Chanel Les Beiges Healthy Glow

Bronzing Cream, £50, Boots
Achieve a year-round glow thanks
to this luxe cream bronzer. The
formula is lightweight yet buildable,
creating an authentic-looking
sun-kissed appearance.

Makeup by Mario Master

Metallics Palette, £55, Sephora
Create endless eye looks, thanks to the glittery
pigments in this party palette. Take your pick
from bold blues, pretty pinks and classic golds.

Charlotte Tilbury
Benefit They’re Real! Hollywood Flawless
Lengthening Mascara, £27, Boots Filter Liquid
Dramatic eyes are ideal for a glitzy event, and this Highlighter, £39,
lengthening mascara works brilliantly. It allows Sephora
you to skip eyelash curlers and false lashes! Ensure your
complexion is glowing
Tarte Shape Tape Contour Concealer, £29, Sephora
under the disco lights,
This is a brilliant multitasking concealer – it brightens
thanks to this
dark circles and helps imperfections vanish in seconds,
luminous liquid. Use
without sinking into wrinkles.
as your primer, mix
with foundation or use
Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi to add a glow to high
Bronzing Drops, £35, Boots points of your face.
Face not matching your fake tan?
Let these tanning drops come to
your rescue. Mix in with your
foundation to cheat a golden,
glowing complexion in seconds.

Hermès Rouge Christian

Hermès Silky Louboutin
Lipstick in 12 Beige Lalacque Le Vernis
Halo, £66, Brilliant Nail
Dior Backstage Rosy Glow cultbeauty.co.uk Colour in Rouge,
in Rosewood, £35, Sephora Estée Lauder Double Wear This designer £45, Selfridges
Blusher will immediately bring a Stay-in-Place Makeup, lipstick will serve Treat yourself to
youthful warmth to your complexion, £39.50, Boots you for all your this luxury nail
and this one blends seamlessly into the It’s clear to see why this is events and beyond, polish – it’s the
skin, promising to suit every skin tone. one of the UK’s bestselling thanks to its ideal deep merlot
foundations. It provides an wearable nude shade that works

TOTAL impressive 24-hour staying shade. The formula for Christmas

£420.50
power with a flawless delivers a dazzling and beyond.
matte finish. halo of light The bottle is a
reflecting pigments beautiful design
to the lips. statement, too.

22 WOMAN
 Beauty

SAVE
to these party make-up essentials
£350
SAVE Collection Cream Bronzer,
£8.99, Superdrug
Create a bronzed base with
the help of this bargain
cream bronzer. The
blendable, buttery bronzer
melts into the skin and
adds a hint of glow to your
cheeks, neck and chest.

17. Eye Shadow Palette 050 Glitter, £5, Boots

When’s better to try some gorgeous glittery Lacura Too Legit Mascara, £3.99, Aldi
eyeshadow than at a festive event? Press the Complete your festive eye look with a
pigment into the lids with fingers for best results. sweep of jet-black mascara. This one
delivers curl power, definition and
dramatic length.
PS… My Perfect
Colour Full Coverage E.l.f. Halo Glow Liquid Filter
Concealer, £3.50, Highlighter, £16, Boots
Primark A radiance-enhancing primer like this promises
Ensure blemishes to keep you glowing all night long. You can use
and dark circles are it as your primer or mix it with foundation
camouflaged with for a natural-looking, dewy gleam.
the help of a
full-coverage
concealer. This one is
also enriched with Essence Drop of Sunshine Bronzing
hyaluronic acid and Drops, £3.95, justmylook.com
vitamin E to hydrate. Enriched with glycerin and vitamins,
these bronzing drops keep your
complexion looking happy
and healthy.

W7 Cloud Kiss
Lipstick in Cloudy
Rose, £5.50,
w7makeup.co.uk
Next Gel Effect No party make-up W7 Legend MCoBeauty Glow Up Ph Powder
Nail Polish in look is complete Foundation, £5.50, Blush in Blush Red, £12, Superdrug
Candy Apple, without lipstick, w7makeup.co.uk Add some colour to your face with
£6, Next and this nude Party make-up calls some powder blusher. This
Red nails are shade will go with for a long-lasting oil-absorbing formula is long lasting
timeless, and this all your eyeshadow foundation, and this and is the loveliest rose shade.
gorgeous shade is looks and outfits. It one provides a
perfect for the won’t dry your lips matte, yet soft-
festive season. out either. focus finish without
TOTAL
£70.43
The high-shine feeling heavy. It’s
gel effect finish best applied with a
means you can damp make-up
skip the salon. sponge or brush.

WOMAN 23
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 Columnist

ANNIE DEADMAN IS HERE TO HELP YOU, THE EASY WAY!

The one thing you

need to feel energised
I
t’s very easy, I think, and improves blood flow,
at this time of year to and gives us time to be more
have our festive spirits aware of posture and become
dampened by stress. generally more present.
There’s the anxiety over If you’re missing the
presents, the food, house quivering of muscles, then
guests, family issues rearing other forms, such as Iyengar or
their heads and the total Vinyasa, can add a bit of spice.
collapse of one’s normal They involve quite demanding
routine. And that includes your and athletic moves and the
exercise schedule – because holding of positions for a long
how can you justify nipping time, which challenges muscles
out for that circuit class when and boosts metabolism.
there’s a ton of mince pies to The pleasure centres of our
make for the school fair or a brain are stimulated and
nativity outfit to magic out of a our energy levels will crank
tea towel and a sprig of holly? up for Christmas!
Let’s think less about frantic So be kind to yourself, no
and fast and more about slow matter what your fitness level,
and controlled. and find 20 minutes during
Yes, I’m talking about the this festive break to get back
restorative and energising in touch with your body.
powers of yoga. Take a break

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

from rushing around and
PHOTOS: GETTY, SHUTTERSTOCK. IF YOU HAVE ANY CONCERNS ABOUT YOUR HEALTH, SEE YOUR GP

find a quiet corner at home to Give

untangle, unfurl and unwind – this a
this act of self-care really can
top up your tank.
✱ Annie is a fitness coach ‘Yoga doesn’t go…
take time –
and creator of The Blast Plan,
There are different forms a 28-day nutrition and fat-loss

it gives time.’
of yoga. Some which promote programme that’s aimed at
relaxation by slow, deep motivating women towards
breathing and simple poses. health and confidence. Visit
These help lower the heart theblastplan.com for more.
rate and blood pressure and
generally make us more able
to tolerate other people’s
heightened emotions, which ANNIE’S TIP
as we know don’t mix well Yoga also promotes better
with the Christmas sherry. sleep (so you have more ROLL AWAY PAIN
Stretching releases energy in the day), which Use a tennis ball for deep
endorphins, which are the can be disrupted at this time tissue massage to aid
body’s natural painkillers. They of year with rich food and muscle tension. Lie on
boost our mood, alleviate stress alcohol. If you’re having a full top of the ball and let it
(the mince pies can wait) and meal, wait two to three hours sink into the belly of
envelop us in a fluffy cloak of afterward before your yoga the muscle. This helps
wellbeing. Stretching slows us session to avoid indigestion. disperse tight knots.
down, unfolds our stiff joints

WOMAN 25
 Boost your health
You can still stay fit and supercharge your
wellbeing in the land of nod

M
any of us spend time and a reaction known as allergic conjunctivitis,’
effort planning how to explains pharmacist Sultan Dajani
improve our health and (goldeneyecare.co.uk). Using allergen-
wellness levels during the relief drops before bed means
daytime, but did you the medication works overnight,
know that there are also simple tips and helping to reduce redness, itching
tricks to reap body and mind benefits and swelling that can often feel
while you’re sound asleep? Our experts worse in the morning.
show us the easy things we can do to
take restorative rest to the next level.
Keep your
Lie on your back socks on Sip
green tea
Looking to improve your posture while Wearing bedsocks
you sleep? Sleep health expert Dan can benefit your
Fabian (tenpm.co) says that ‘the soldier’ cardiovascular Drinking green tea can stimulate the
– on your back, arms by your side – is one system. ‘It use of fat as fuel – so, potentially, a cup
of the best positions for spinal alignment helps widen before you head to bed could help keep your
and maintaining good posture. and relax the weight in check, says nutritionist Francesca which helps
‘Sleeping like this helps keep the blood vessels, Cappozzo. ‘But you will need to consume with recovery.’
spine, neck and head in a neutral position, which allows green tea regularly to see any real effect Warming your
reducing the risk of back and neck pain,’ a greater flow of weight loss.’ Green tea also contains feet in socks also
he says. Worried about snoring? from the heart L-theanine, which acts as a relaxing agent, reduces your core
Keeping the head slightly elevated to the legs, reducing stress and improving the body temperature
with one pillow can help reduce this. otherwise quality of sleep. This makes it a faster, helping you
stagnant during fall asleep quicker

Use allergen
brilliant nightcap, although be
sleep,’ explains warned, it does contain by, on average, seven-
health and and-a-half minutes,

eye drops
some caffeine.
wellbeing expert found research. Perfect for
Nicole Brûlé-Walker those who struggle to nod off.
Eyes that are sensitive to allergens, such (coretruthssystem.com).
as dust or pet dander, can feel itchy, puffy,
red or watery. You might
‘This enables the muscles to
receive more oxygen and blood flow, Do quick
be more susceptible as
breathwork
Did you
you sleep due to
those that have When our bodies are in deep sleep, a lot

know?
settled on your of healthy processes start to happen
bedding and naturally. ‘As we move into slow-wave
pillows. ‘When On average, adults burn sleep, the parasympathetic system takes
allergens affect 50 calories an hour sleeping. the lead, which is the body’s own repair
the eyes, the So seven hours of quality mode – settling the vagus nerve, lowering
body releases sleep per night will use stress hormones and allowing for tissue
histamine and up around 350 repair, immune support and emotional
blood vessels in the calories. processing,’ says transformational coach
conjunctiva – the Soulla Demetriou (soulshineretreats.com).
lining of the eye – ‘Quality sleep nurtures and restores your
enlarge and swell, causing nervous system overnight.’ A brief

26 WOMAN
 Health and wellbeing

breathwork session or soft humming inflammatory properties, which help protect

SAMANTHA WOOD. PHOTOS (POSED BY MODELS): GETTY. IF YOU HAVE CONCERNS ABOUT YOUR HEALTH, SEE YOUR GP
IMPROVE YOUR
before bed can cue the body toward its cells and support the immune system.
deepest restorative sleep and help your

Eat fish for dinner

*NICSWELL.CO.UK/HEALTH-NEWS/CAN-YOU-SLEEP-YOURSELF-THIN. **NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY. WORDS:

WEIGHT LOSS
nervous system stay regulated.

Sweat in a sauna You probably know that including

omega-3 fatty acids in your diet is
OVERNIGHT
An evening sauna session can aid good important for brain health, but the closer
sleep as it triggers the release of you eat them to bedtime, the better it ✱ Aim for between seven to nine
melatonin, which then helps us to might be for your memory. hours’ sleep a night, depending on
maintain deep and restorative rest, ‘Getting enough omega 3s at dinner time what works for you. One US study*
says sauna expert Jane Witt from oily fish like salmon, mackerel, found those who have less than this
(thesaltwatersauna.com). sardines, anchovies and herring each night had a higher BMI.
‘During this time of deep may improve REM sleep –
sleep, the brain’s waste the stage that plays a key ✱ Get outside in natural daylight.
removal process is role in memory and Scientists from the University of
most active, and emotional processing,’ Alberta, in Canada, say that those
when this is says nutritional exposed to bright daylight may
working well, therapist be slimmer due to sunlight having
it can help Alexa Mullane an effect on fat cells near the
reduce things (wileysfinest. surface of the skin, although
like brain fog co.uk). ‘The more research is still needed.
the following better your diet
day.’ As well as and consumption ✱ Turn off gadgets like phones and
helping aid a of these essential tablets – and stop looking at them
good night’s fatty acids, the a good hour before bed. The blue
sleep, melatonin more you’re light can increase hunger and insulin
also has powerful helping your brain resistance without you realising**.
antioxidant and anti- while you sleep.’

WOMAN 27
 Why the
season is

Here’s how those festive favourites can do

great things for your body and mind

Brussels
sprouts could
fight cancer
Love them or hate them, loading up your
plate with this Christmas-dinner staple

P
may help reduce your risk of cancer. ‘When
fibre meets the bacteria in the bowel,
anic-buying last-minute find the holidays an overwhelming the bacteria make something called
gifts, spring cleaning the experience, according to a YouGov butyrate, which helps the cells
house in time for hosting survey. Sound familiar? It’s not all bad stay healthy, so tumours are
and making sure you’ve – many of our favourite traditions can be less likely to develop,’ says
catered to everyone’s dietary beneficial. From eating turkey to playing Fiona Osgun from Cancer
requirements can mean this time of year board games, our experts reveal the ones Research UK.
often feels stressful. In fact, 45% of Brits you should embrace for a brighter holiday.

28 WOMAN
 Health and wellbeing
Carol
Binge-watching singing supports
comforts you heart health
Love a festive flick? Good news
– hunkering down to watch your Enjoy harmonising to Deck the Halls?
favourite Christmas classics again Singing our favourite festive songs
and again gives a sense of comfort isn’t just fun, ‘research shows that
and predictability, in an otherwise singing can increase blood flow in the
unpredictable world. ‘Knowing the body, which aids respiratory function
outcome of a story provides a feeling – so it has been linked to improved
of safety, triggering warm feelings of cardiovascular health,’ says Dr Ketan
nostalgia,’ says lead psychologist Smriti Parmar (clinicspots.com). It has also been found
Joshi at Wysa. Your favourite films and can be a tonic to stress. to work as a pain reliever, as Dr Ketan explains.
shows can also create a strong sense of ‘Interactions with those we feel ‘As well as releasing endorphins, which
connection, helping to beat loneliness*. close to can change our breathing can reduce perception of pain, singing
and heart rate, which tend to sync up. is a great way to distract your mind

Socialising soothes the soul This can alter our mood and how we
perceive our reality,’ says neuroscientist
from any discomfort you
may be feeling.’
Whether it’s festive drinks with friends or Laura Ellera. It can also cause the release
hosting relatives, spending time with loved of dopamine, which gives us a natural high.
ones and having meaningful conversations reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.

Mulled wine ingredient Just stick to two sausages per portion.

strengthens immunity Eating turkey improves mood

Festive chores Vino tinto, the main ingredient of mulled Tucking into this seasonal meat can help

*PUBLISHED IN THE JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY. **PER HOUR, FOR A 70KG ADULT.
burn calories wine, is packed full of antioxidants, you feel more cheerful. ‘This is thanks to

IF YOU HAVE CONCERNS ABOUT YOUR HEALTH, SEE YOUR GP. PHOTOS (POSED BY MODELS): GETTY
polyphenols and flavonoids, all its content of an amino acid known as
Preparing for the big day and running of which are immune-boosting. tryptophan, which plays an important role
around after the family means we’re on ‘Flavonoids have antiviral properties, in the production of the happy hormone
our feet much more than usual. See how which means they can help build up serotonin,’ says nutritionist Jenna Hope
many cals** you might be burning… your immune system and, in theory, (jennahopenutrition.com). However,
✱ Christmas shopping = 175 cals keep those winter colds at bay,’ says tryptophan needs carbohydrates to have
✱ Putting up decorations = 156 cals Dr Deborah Lee from Dr Fox Online an impact on the brain, so make sure
✱ Cooking = 152 cals Pharmacy (doctorfox.co.uk). Citrus you have a diet rich in these too. Opt for
✱ Wrapping presents = 120 cals fruits added to the wine amp up the healthier, complex carbohydrates, including
✱ Making beds and tidying = 93 cals vitamin C content and many of the sweet potatoes, lentils and brown rice.
✱ Washing up = 57 cals traditional spices thrown in also have

FEELING WORSE
warming, antiviral powers – brilliant
at staving off colds and flu.

Board games help FOR WEAR?

to improve memory Christmas can leave us sluggish.
‘As well as food and alcohol affecting
Anyone for Trivial Pursuit? Or maybe you the way we feel, our homes are full
prefer the highs and lows of Monopoly? of materials and electronic devices,
Whatever your top family board game, the which create an excess of positive
benefits of playing them go beyond the ions that sap our energy,’ says
social element of gathering everyone mindset and
together after Christmas lunch. Playing mental health
a board game can help maintain memory, coach Fenella
problem-solving skills and thinking speed Hemus. A
in later life, found researchers at the Boxing Day
University of Edinburgh. Choose a game walk can
that makes you all laugh and you’ll get help. ‘Walking
a boost of feel-good endorphins, too. outdoors
– especially

Pigs in blankets ease arthritis

in woods and
by the sea –
High in fat, yes, but bacon does contain rebalances
thiamin, amino acids, vitamin B12, zinc this, increasing
and selenium – all vital nutrients – plus energy levels.’
omega-3, which can ease arthritis, and

WOMAN 29
 WOMAN’S GP DR HELEN WALL ON HER TOPIC OF THE WEEK

7 ways to
cure a cold
Experiencing a blocked or runny nose,
fever, sneezing, sore throat, aches,
cough and fatigue? If so, help is at hand.

The common cold is – just as the

name describes – extremely
common. It’s an easily WHEN TO
spread viral infection
that can cause a myriad GET HELP
of unpleasant See your GP if you experience
symptoms. If I had a high temperature for more
a quick fix for it, I’d than three days, feel hot and
be a very famous shivery, are dehydrated, have
woman, but, sadly, chest pain or shortness of
I don’t. But the good breath, a cough lasting
news is, there are tips more than three weeks or
that can help it along… fatigue that doesn’t
improve.

1 GET PLENTY OF REST

Your immune system has a big
impact your immune function.
Aim for pale yellow urine.
steam from a bowl or try sitting in the
bathroom with a hot shower running.
job to do and it works best when you’re
not stressed or overtired. While you
rest, your immune system is ramping
3 OPT FOR VITAMIN C
Eating colourful plant foods high in
vitamins and nutrients can have huge
5 SEE YOUR PHARMACIST
While cold remedies that help with
discomfort, fever and congestion won’t
up production of immune cells and beneficial effects on how well your cure a cold, they may improve comfort and
chemicals that will fight the infection. immune system functions. Focus on reduce inflammation, helping to take the

2 STAY HYDRATED
Colds cause you to lose fluid quicker
eating kiwi fruit, citrus, berries, greens
etc. Vitamin C supplements haven’t been
stress off your immune system and allow
it to do its job of making you better.
through fever, runny noses and mouth
breathing. Dehydration can dry out
shown to prevent colds, but they may
reduce their severity and duration. 6 TRY HONEY
Have a spoonful on its own or with
mucus membranes and reduce blood
volume, meaning everything gets more
sluggish and less efficient at fighting
4 TAKE ON SOME STEAM
Moisture helps clear mucus and
reduces nasal congestion, restoring normal
warm water or tea. Honey coats the throat,
has mild antimicrobial effects and has
been proven to reduce cough intensity.
infection. Even mild dehydration triggers airflow and clearing microbes before they Unless you are allergic, it’s worth a try!
cortisol levels (stress hormone), which will reach your lungs. Take care breathing in
7 FOCUS ON ZINC
Taking zinc lozenges, syrups or
tablets within 24 hours of the onset of
cold symptoms could potentially speed
FACT OR FICTION? SMALLER BOOBS MEANS A LOWER RISK OF BREAST CANCER up recovery of a cold and reduce the
Fiction. Breast size has no impact on cancer risk. Small-chested women have the severity of symptoms. Research is ongoing
same number of lobes and ducts (the parts that make milk and carry it to the however, and you must be careful if taking
nipple) as bustier women, and cancer often starts in the cells that line these. other medications, so talk to your GP or
pharmacist. Use short-term only.

30 WOMAN
 Health and wellbeing

ASK US
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other. The good news is that your man I reckon it’s a bad idea. Not

SUSAN QUILLIAM PHOTO: ANGELA SPAIN. OTHER PHOTOS (POSED BY MODELS): GETTY. IF YOU HAVE CONCERNS ABOUT YOUR HEALTH,
‘down there’ so I’ve been
is obviously just the person to teach referred to a gynaecology only might your doctor be
you what’s possible. So tell him you consultant. I don’t know whether it’s embarrassed, but he might well
want to learn, then add a whole new because he’s very attractive or because transfer you to another consultant.
set of thrills to your bedroom action! he’s very attentive, but I’d love to take Medical staff are strongly advised
things further with him. We get on so against relationships with patients –
Alone – as always well that when my treatment’s over, the penalty is often losing their job.

Q
I’m going to suggest we go for a drink. So for everyone’s sake, your doctor
I’ll be on my own at New Year, What do you reckon? would run a mile if you made a move.
and at Christmas. I’m in love
with a man who is married.

SEE YOUR GP. CONSULT YOUR GP OR MEDICAL EXPERT BEFORE TAKING NEW SUPPLEMENTS
A
He says he loves me too, but he can’t time to end a marriage. It always hurts. SUZIE SAYS
leave his family yet – his youngest has Sooner rather than later is the only time to You and your husband have every
just started school. We see each other do it. Give him one chance to set a date and right to spend New Year how you
for a few hours after work most prove this isn’t just a case of him having a bit want to. You don’t need to feel
evenings and on Saturdays. I really on the side. If the excuses continue, end it. apologetic or guilty for opting out of the
want him to leave them. Will he ever? festivities. You have two choices. One is to
I hate New Year parties!
A
SUZIE SAYS create your own New Year celebration.

Q
In a word – no. ‘Child just started Politely decline party invitations by
school…’, ‘Wife has cancer…’, or I’m a social type, but my husband saying, ‘We’re having a private celebration
‘The dog’s poorly…’ – I’ve heard and I can’t wait for midnight to this year.’ Stock up on treats, plan a
them all. Every excuse means one thing: come so we can exchange New candlelit dinner and maybe settle in for
‘I’m never going to leave, and why should Year kisses with everyone – then leave. a movie night. The second option is to
I? I’m having my cake and eating it.’ If he When we were younger, we joined in, but attend a party, but make it clear to your
truly loved you and wanted to be with we now both dread the whole prospect. hosts that you’ll be leaving early. Enjoy
you, he’d know there’s never a perfect Is there anything you can suggest? yourself, then depart when it suits you.

HOW TO GET IN CONTACT

Susan will tackle your sex and relationship problems and family dilemmas can be solved by Suzie. Write to ‘Susan and Suzie’ at Woman,
121-141 Westbourne Terrace, London W2 6JR, or send a direct email to [email protected] or [email protected].

WOMAN 31
 ‘I will do
whatever I
please and
I can’t wait’

Camilla Collins is looking forward to spending

the most joyful day of the year all by herself
32 WOMAN
 Real life

A
aaah, Christmas. That even being back in the house I grew up
magical time of joy, wonder in holds unhappy memories. So I’ll
and goodwill to all mankind. spend time with them on more
But is it, really? Surely I can’t neutral turf.
be the only person to find As much as I love seeing my young
being rammed into confined places with relatives, I can’t help but feel lacking
extended family, lame decorations and by not having my own little family.
all the enforced cheerfulness rather Like most single women over 30 I’ve
tense? Less ‘peace on earth’, more ‘silent been the point of fascination and
relative rage,’ perhaps? dinner table conversation over the
Throw in copious amounts of booze years. I’m used to gritting my teeth
which (let’s be honest) is necked more to through the cocked-head and
‘take the edge off’ than in celebration. And pitying ‘still looking for a fella?’
it’s no surprise everyone ends up ruddy- questions. I don’t have to defend
cheeked in wonky paper hats, hissing at myself, but it doesn’t mean it
each other over burnt parsnips while can’t hurt. I just haven’t had much
perched on the wobbly table extender luck with men.
dragged out for special occasions.
I realise I sound like the Grinch, but come Unlucky in love
on, can’t Christmas be hell? I was engaged once to lovely Matt*.
All the festivities are so geared around He proposed to me on the last
couples and families. It’s day of a Maldives
the season of love – of little
blue Tiffany boxes, kisses
‘Famously holiday and – swept
up in the moment
under the mistletoe, Mum kicked – I said yes. We

everyone out
families decorating trees visited his family Camilla with her mum
together, dads dressed as around Christmas and dad in 2020

one year’
Santa, mums stuffing that year, which
stockings and sugar-hyped seemed calmer. But I knew
children in awe of it all. deep down it wasn’t right last year and I love taking my cocker
The romantic in me adores all of this, but with Matt (the fact we hadn’t made love for spaniels Arthur and Bibi for long walks.
at 37 and with no partner or children of my the entire holiday should have been a red My career is rewarding, I own two events
own, it’s not the easiest day. Which is why flag). We’d started wedding planning, but businesses, and am also a trained life coach.
this year, I’m totally opting out. Please don’t called it off before tying the knot. A few Funnily enough, often clients ask for advice
pity me, I’ve received kind invitations, months later, I met an eligible lawyer and on managing family dynamics! Many of us
which I’ve politely (yet firmly) declined. single dad one night at a private members’ struggle in this area.
And I’ve told my family that for once I’m club. Tom* met my friends and family, and I
No turkey basting
*NAMES HAVE BEEN CHANGED. WORDS: SUSANNA GALTON. PHOTOS: PAUL GROVER/THE TELEGRAPH, CAMILLA COLLINS.

spending the day my way. Just me and the met his colleagues and bought his kids gifts.
dogs, thank you. I haven’t always been It was only when I Facetimed him, without This Christmas I will do whatever I please,
anti-Christmas. Growing up in north warning one day, when I spotted his and I can’t wait. I’ll wake up whenever
London, I too was filled with excitement as wedding ring. Not so eligible after all. I like, I will eat some smoked salmon and
a kid. But my parents split up when I was By 2023, aged 35 and despairing of men, eggs for breakfast and go on a long dog walk.
aged 14. We always still had family I looked into freezing my eggs. The doctor A friend owns a gym in Bristol which opens
Christmases after their divorce, which assured me there was no physical reason for a few hours on Christmas day for anyone
I realise must have been an effort for them why I wouldn’t get pregnant. But who likes to exercise (or escape their
and an act of love towards me, but that statistically egg freezing family) and I’ll enjoy
doesn’t mean it was always comfortable. doesn’t always work. After
much soul searching I
‘I’ll treat a workout there, too.
I don’t have to bother
Family tensions realised that it wasn’t a baby
myself to basting a turkey just for
Both my mum Ashley, 72, and dad John, I craved, but a family unit. me, so I’ll treat myself to
79, had been married before, so I have two I hate the societal attitude a seafood a seafood platter and pop a

platter’
much older half siblings from Dad’s side, that anyone who hasn’t little champagne. I’ve hung
and a half sister from Mum’s. I get on with found a long-term partner stockings up for Arthur
everyone, and my nieces are lovely, but is a ‘failure’. Or that and Bibi so I will still get
© TELEGRAPH MEDIA GROUP HOLDINGS LIMITED

blended families, however idyllic-sounding not having children pleasure from seeing them open them.
and modern, also bring different kinds will leave us ‘unfulfilled’. I’m done with the We will all get in our matching onesies
of strains. And rows. Famously, Mum apps now, I’ll just see what fate has in store. and cuddle up on the sofa to watch whatever
kicked everyone out one year. (No one And since I stopped being scared of the hell I want on TV. I won’t be made to
can now recall why, and we’ve laughed solitude, I’ve got to know and understand endure the King’s speech or the Strictly
since, but still…) myself better, which is why I feel I can special, and naturally I’ll get first dibs on
Don’t get me wrong. I love both my spend Christmas alone. After drawing up all the best Quality Street. Admit it, does
parents very much and I’m grateful for all more boundaries my mental health has a solo Christmas sound so bad?
they’ve done for me, but that doesn’t mean hugely benefited. I am lucky enough to have ✱ For more information on Camilla’s
the highly pressured ‘most special day of a life full of fun even without a boyfriend. lifestyle and confidence coaching,
the year’ is the best time to see them. And I swapped London for a Wiltshire cottage go to camillacollins.com

WOMAN 33
 DEAL OF
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out by cold
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reezing temperatures
and burst pipes, roof tiles
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missing pension credits? worst time – winter brings

(POSED BY MODELS): GETTY. DETAILS CORRECT AT TIME OF WRITING

some of the most common and costly

*ABI STATS. **AVIVA. ***USWITCH. † THE MONEY CHARITY. PHOTOS

£39.54
If you took time out of work to care insurance claims. Payouts for
for children or someone with a long- weather-related damage to
term disability between 1978 and homes and possessions last
2010, you could be owed thousands. year reached a record £585
An error in ‘Home Responsibilities million*, with almost a fifth
Protection’ – a system which should of all home claims related In 2024, it cost an
have reduced the number of to storm damage**.
national insurance (NI) years needed But peace of mind doesn’t average of £39.54 per
for a full state pension – has left come cheap! In 2024, the day for a couple to raise a
average annual price for
many underpaid. Check eligibility
by searching ‘home responsibilities combined buildings and child from birth to age 18
protection’ on gov.uk or call the contents cover rose by - compared to £22.92
16% to £395, compared to
NI helpline on 0300 200 3500.
the previous year***.
five years before†.
This means that when your policy
comes up for renewal, it’s worth checking
out comparison websites: competitive

MONEY deals are out there, so don’t just auto renew.

Plus, as you brace yourself for cold weather,

MADE SIMPLE
make sure you know what’s covered, what’s (eg uninsulated pipes in the loft), your
not, and how you can reduce the risk of claim may be rejected.

What is dynamic
a winter-related claim.
PREVENT THE PROBLEM:
pricing? xi-
ARE BURST PIPES COVERED?
Most home policies will cover the costs
✱ Insulate water pipes and tanks. (You
could also save around £300-£400 off your
events to ta
From airlines to of damage caused by ‘escape of water’ energy bill a year, according to uSwitch).
ore companies
hailing apps, m (eg bursts or leaking pipes) but often not ✱ Fix leaks and dripping taps promptly.
ic pricing – the repair of the pipe itself. ✱ Know where your stopcock is – and
are using dynam
as supply Some insurance policies will include make sure you can actually turn the tap.
adjusting prices
anges. It’s ‘trace and access’ cover (that’s the cost of ✱ Going away? Set your heating to an
and demand ch
sses must be finding the leak) but not all do, so it’s worth anti-frost setting (12-15C) – this is likely
legal, but busine
the full cost double checking. If insurers believe that to be cheaper and much less hassle than
transparent, show the damage was due to poor maintenance coming home to burst pipes.
d warn if prices
to consumers an
fore you buy.
could change be
 Your finances

SMART
SHOPPER
Woman’s food
director Jen Bedloe
BLOOR CAN HELP YOU SAVE £££s helps you grab
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and drink
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The Met Office provides
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Treat yourself, or someone
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insurers’ emergency
A smooth, melt-in-the-
contact details
middle favourite that
to hand.
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WAS £7.50, NOW
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(CLUBCARD OFFER)
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usually covered by buildings insurance ✱ Trim overhanging branches. It wouldn’t be Christmas
– however, cover can vary. Insurers set ✱ Ensure gutters and downpipes are without a Baileys Irish
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Cash’ as the
subject.
WOMAN 35
 Campaign

Shannon McKechnie was convinced she’d found

‘the one’, until the truth began to unfold

I
n February 2019, when I signed weeks, we became close – dinner, drink and
up to Tinder, I certainly wasn’t coffee dates, romantic walks in the park.
desperate for love. It’d been three Weeks turned into months, and I found
years since my last relationship. myself really liking Chris. ‘What do you
A director of a recruitment miss most about being in a relationship?’
business in my mid-30s, I was a city Chris asked one day in August as we sat
girl who loved nights out and the gym. down to eat. ‘Someone to go on holiday
I was happy casually dating, matching with,’ I confessed.
with men on Tinder. Two months later, in
Making plans
Chris Harkins
April, I matched with Chris Harkins, then
32. On his profile he described himself as Over the next few days, the topic of
caring, generous and different, and I could holidays kept coming up – and then, over
see from the lavish photos of his trips text, he suggested we go away together. bonus from work in the coming days. When
abroad that he was someone who At first, I thought he was joking – after all, we agreed a budget of £3,000 each, I felt a
appreciated the good things in life. we’d only been dating a few months – but bit guilty for splurging, but how often in
He worked as an engineer, and when he started sending life do you get the chance to do
seemed ambitious, with me the details
‘Excitement something so spontaneous and
WORDS: FRANCES LEATE. PHOTOS: FIRECREST

a sideline in finance and of luxury romantic? In the end, Chris had

investments too. He was
tall, with tattoos and (at
hotels in
Greece, I felt had turned to change the flights which
pushed the price up so, one
the time) long hair, and
he was in good shape.
so excited.
I was soon into fear’ morning on my way to work,
I transferred £3,247 into his
We soon got chatting swept up in account, and he texted me back
over text, but on our first the moment, deciding on a soon after to say it’d all been booked.
date later that month, he lovely five-star hotel and That night, I went to bed smiling with
seemed a bit shy. After working out a budget. Of happiness. I couldn’t wait to relax on
a few drinks, his nerves course, I’d pay my way, and holiday with my new man. Only, the next
faded, and over the next luckily I was due to get a morning, I woke up and realised that
Shannon got swept
up in a romance scam
36 WOMAN
 I spent the rest of the day at work in
disbelief. Had I just been scammed? By
my own boyfriend? Feeling shocked and
ashamed, I decided not to tell any of my
friends and family. I’d spent months raving
about how wonderful Chris was – even
defending our romance when friends
suggested things were moving too quickly
– so this was my burden to carry alone.

Asking for more

That night, Chris texted me from a new
number. ‘What is going on?’ he typed,
explaining he’d got a new phone. He seemed
defensive – aggressive, even – that I’d
accused him of stealing my money. Over
the next few days, he told me his bank
account had been frozen. ‘It happens a lot
because of the amounts I’m depositing,’ he
explained. He even showed me a letter
from his bank showing his account
would be accessible in a few weeks’
time. ‘I need to pay £12,000 to a
supplier now,’ he said, before asking
me if I could lend him the cash.
Except by now, I knew Chris
wasn’t who he said he was – when
I told colleagues at work what had
happened, they revealed to me
that they knew of him, and that he’d
scammed other people.
I was hurt, and felt so foolish. I was an
intelligent woman in her 30s – how had
I been scammed? Any feelings of upset
excitement had turned into a gnawing fear. quickly turned to anger, and I really just
Checking my phone, I noticed Chris hadn’t wanted my money back. So I politely
texted that morning like he usually did. names. There wasn’t. ‘You’re making me explained I didn’t have the money, and
Something was definitely off. I tried calling fear that you’ve run away with my money,’ kept things as friendly as possible.
him. But I felt sick when his phone was I typed in a text to him. Over the next weeks, Chris’ texts went
dead, as if it had been disconnected. So Then I went to the local branch of my from desperate to angry, as he tried to
I called the hotel in Mykonos to check if bank, but they said they couldn’t do wheedle more cash from me. ‘Look, Chris,
there was a booking under either of our anything, as I’d willingly transferred the I’m really concerned about my money now.
money. The police were even less helpful, Am I going to get it back? If not, I’m going
with an officer later confirming that it to have to go to the police,’ I warned him in
was a civil matter, not a criminal one. September via text. He replied with a flurry
of abuse, threatening me, so I reported him

ON A MISSION
to the police, then decided to move on –
✱ By exposing their methods, and I put it down to a bad mistake and accepted
alerting you to their tricks and tactics, that I was never getting my money back.
we want to help stop scammers in In October, I was out having dinner with
✱ Woman is on a mission to Stamp Out their tracks. friends when he messaged me a photo of
Scams! by putting you, our loyal readers, ✱ You can help too, by joining our him holding a wad of cash. He said if I met
in the know, so that you can protect online community of scam fighters on him at a kebab shop nearby, he’d pay me my
yourself from criminals and fraudsters. Facebook and Instagram, where you can money back. I walked to the kebab shop and
✱ Scams are becoming ever more share stories, tips, advice and warnings. waited but, of course, he didn’t show up.
sophisticated, and fraudsters are finding ✱ It’s time to take back control, so join This time, though, I decided Chris
new ways every day to con us out of money Woman’s fight against fraudsters and Harkins had humiliated me for the last
and personal and financial information. help us Stamp Out Scams! for good. time, and I was determined to get my
own back, so I contacted a journalist…

WOMAN 37
Campaign

FIGHT BACK
UK Finance spokesperson Jess Cook
answers your questions

Q
How can you protect yourself?
We encourage everyone to
follow the three steps of the
Take Five to Stop Fraud campaign:
‘Stop, Challenge and Protect’. Stop
and think before sending money to
someone you’ve never met in person.
Challenge what you’re told – speak
to family or friends about your
experience. Protect yourself and
others by reporting suspicious
behaviour to the app you’re using.
If you think you’ve been scammed,
contact your bank and report it to
Action Fraud (actionfraud.police.uk).

‘I HAD TO GET HIM OFF THE STREETS’

Q
What advice would you give
Journalist Catriona Stewart, 40, was articulate, and had similar stories about someone who feels someone
determined to help Shannon. what Chris had told them. Meanwhile, his might be trying to scam them?
I was a chief reporter on a local Glasgow face was being shared on social media, Trust your instincts and take a step
newspaper when I heard from Shannon women warning other women about him. back. Reject or ignore any requests
in October 2019, who told me she’d been After we ran another story about more they make – only criminals will try to
conned out of more than £3,000. Hoping to victims, police started to investigate, and pressure you to send money quickly
expose the fraudster, I started finding out in January 2020, Chris was arrested and or lie to your bank.
more about this man. He seemed to lead a charged with a string of offences, including

Q
luxurious lifestyle, yet didn’t seem to have fraud, in Scotland. But then he moved to What should someone do
an actual job. Within days, I managed to England, where he continued conning if they realise they have
speak to Chris over the phone. women. In January 2023, he appeared at already been scammed?
Of course, he denied everything. He Isleworth Crown Court, and was found It’s important to act quickly. Contact
became aggressive, and was upset that I was guilty of five counts of fraud, scamming your bank immediately – they may be
planning on publishing an article. He said £16,700 from a single woman. He was able to stop further transactions or
he’d pay Shannon back if I didn’t. Making sentenced to 15 months in prison. But none help recover lost funds.
no promises, I went along with Shannon to of the women in Scotland had got justice.
a chip shop, where someone Chris knew Finally, in January 2024, he appeared at
handed her an envelope with her cash, Paisley High Court and pleaded guilty to public gallery and stared straight at me.
down to the last penny. I was so happy for a string of financial abuse offences. In total ‘This is because of you,’ he boomed.
Shannon, but I knew there was more to the he was convicted of 19 offences, including I felt glad that some of his victims had got
story so, a few days later, my newspaper scamming nine women out of a total of justice, and that I had been part of that. But
ran an story on Chris called ‘The Tinder £214,000, rape, assault, recording intimate the real heroes are the women who spoke
Swindler’. I was swamped with messages videos without consent, threatening and out against him. It shows how powerful
from women, all claiming to be victims. abusive behaviour, and four other sexual women can be when they join forces.
Like Shannon, they were in their mid- offences. When he was sentenced in July ✱ Catching the Tinder Predator is
30s, attractive and 2024 to 12 years in prison, he turned to the available on Prime Video

Catriona catches
up with Shannon
‘PROTECT YOUR HEART AND YOUR FINANCES’
Scams expert Rav Wilding says: met – whether in a dating app or in
✱ ‘After years investigating fraud, I’ve real life – asks for financial help or
seen how skilled and patient shares emotional stories that
romance scammers can be. make you feel responsible for

JOIN They don’t just target

people online – some
them. Genuine partners won’t
pressure you for money. Trust

OUR FIGHT!
Find us at facebook.com/
even meet victims in
person, building trust
grows through honesty, not
pressure or guilt. Protect your
over months before heart, and your finances,
womanmagazine or exploiting it. Always by staying alert, asking
Instagram @woman.maguk be cautious if questions, and never
to share your tips and advice. someone you’ve rushing into anything.’

38 WOMAN
 Recipes | Homes & gardens | Travel
QUICK
Showstopper & EASY
PARTY PUDS
Transform a few shop-bought ingredients into a last-minute dessert

Christmas
ice cream stack
Use up leftover choccies and festive
bakes in this eye-catching masterpiece.

SERVES 6 READY IN 20 MINS,

PLUS FREEZING

✱ 1ltr vanilla ice cream

✱ 3 mince pies, chopped
✱ 150g After Eights, chopped,
plus extra, broken into pieces
✱ Magic shell chocolate topping,
to drizzle (we used Askeys Crackin
Choc Shell)
✱ 20g pistachios and hazelnuts,
toasted and chopped
✱ Glacé cherries, chopped, to decorate

1 Split the ice cream equally between

two bowls and leave to soften slightly.
2 Fold two of the chopped mince pies
into one half of the ice cream, and the
chopped After Eights into the other,
then freeze both until firm.
3 Scoop the ice cream into balls (about
six of each flavour), then put on a lined FOOD
baking tray and freeze for at least 4 hrs, ED’S TIP
or until ready to assemble. Try making your own
4 When ready to serve, pile the ice magic shell-style sauce:
cream balls onto a chilled serving plate, Melt 50g dark chocolate
layering them up with the remaining with 1½tsp coconut oil
chopped mince pies and After Eights. until smooth. Set aside
5 Drizzle over the magic shell topping to cool to room temp
and scatter over the toasted chopped before pouring over
nuts and the glacé cherries. the ice cream.
Per serving: 447 cals, 24g fat,
10g sat fat, 52g carbs ➺

WOMAN 39
 FOOD
ED’S TIP
The cake will last
in the fridge for
2-3 days. The base
will become a little
softer, but it will still
be delicious!

40 WOMAN
 Recipes

Chocolate,
FOOD
ED’S TIP

marshmallow
To make your own
caramelised nuts, toss 50g

and popcorn
toasted hazelnuts, peanuts
or pecans with 1tbsp icing

cake
sugar and 2tsp water. Spread
over a lined baking sheet
and bake for 10-12 mins,
This no-bake dessert is sure
then roughly
to be a family favourite and
chop.
can be made well in advance.

SERVES 10 PREP 10 MINS

COOK 5-10 MINS,
PLUS CHILLING

✱ 200g dark chocolate

✱ 75g salted butter
✱ 150g caster sugar
✱ 3tbsp golden syrup
✱ 50g flaked almonds, toasted
✱ 20g sweet and salty popcorn
mix, plus an extra small
handful for the top
✱ 300ml double cream
✱ 100g marshmallow fluff
✱ 100g Christmas chocolates
or Maltesers, chopped into
small pieces, plus extra
to decorate
You will need:
✱ 20cm spring-form cake tin,
base and sides lined

1 Melt the dark chocolate

and 25g of the butter, then
set aside to cool.
2 Put the sugar in a saucepan
over medium heat. Slowly melt,
tilting the pan to encourage even
caramelisation. Heat until the mixture
turns a deep amber colour with a clear Baileys, caramel and pear millefeuille
consistency. Use a whisk to mix in the Use any fruit and nut combination you fancy for this elegant winner.
remaining butter.
3 Once melted, stir in the golden syrup. SERVES 8 PREP 10 MINS sheet on top. Bake for 30 mins until
With a spoon, mix in the almonds and COOK 30 MINS, PLUS COOLING crisp and golden throughout.
popcorn, then remove from the heat 2 When cool enough to handle, remove
COMPILED BY: JESS MEYER. RECIPES AND PHOTOS: FUTURECONTENTHUB.COM

and pour the mixture into the lined tin. ✱ 320g sheet ready-rolled the baking paper, then transfer the pastry
Use the back of the spoon to flatten all-butter puff pastry to a cooling rack and leave to cool
the mixture and cover the base (don’t ✱ 1tbsp icing sugar completely. Then put the pastry on a
worry if there are a few gaps). Chill while ✱ 450ml double cream board and carefully cut it in half widthways,
you prepare the topping. ✱ 3tbsp Baileys Irish Cream so that you end up with 2 rectangles.
4 Whip the cream to firm peaks and ✱ 250g bought fresh custard 3 Whip the double cream with the
fold through the melted chocolate ✱ 100ml bought chocolate sauce Baileys to soft pillowy peaks, then fold
mixture and the marshmallow fluff. ✱ 150ml bought salted caramel sauce, through the custard.
Mix in a few chocolates. gently warmed if solid 4 Put one rectangle of pastry on a serving
5 Spoon the chocolate mixture over ✱ 4 pears, cored and thinly sliced platter, top with half the custard cream
the popcorn base, then smooth the ✱ 50g honey-roast or caramelised nuts, and a drizzle each of chocolate and
top and chill for 1 hr. roughly chopped (see tip) caramel sauce. Pop the other pastry
6 Once set, remove the cake from rectangle on top, then repeat the layers.
the tin and transfer to a serving plate. 1 Heat the oven to 160C Fan. Unroll the Top with the pears and nuts, then cut
Decorate the top with extra popcorn pastry and place on a baking sheet lined into slices and serve with any remaining
and chocolates, then slice to serve. with baking paper. Sprinkle the pastry with chocolate and caramel sauce.
Per serving: 453 cals, 36g fat, the icing sugar, cover with another piece Per serving: 684 cals, 52g fat,
20g sat fat, 32g carbs of baking paper and place another baking 28g sat fat, 48g carbs

WOMAN 41
 Candy-striped
wallpaper, £12 per
roll, crafted
Christmas duvet
set, £14, knitted
star cushion,
£18, bouclé throw,
£45, cable-knit
throw, £65,
all Dunelm

season with these easy fixes and bargain buys

42 WOMAN
 Homes

2
Folklore paper
stars, £15 Chester dove grey five-drawer
for three, chest, £525, upholstered bench,
Talking Tables £350, Rissington table lamp, £99,
robin stocking, £15, all Cotswold Co
Include a
vanity area

1
Set up a temporary
dressing table area for
guests by adding a stand
mirror on top of a chest of drawers or
desk. Clear a drawer or add a storage
basket or caddy where guests

Deck
can keep their belongings.
Natural oval mirror, £6, B&M

the bed
Make the bed the
focal point with
tie-on decorations
and fairy lights that
can be easily taken
down afterwards.
Brighten up the wall
behind the bed with
festive pictures
on ledges or
colourful garlands
draped across.

Ready for Christmas print,

from £5.95, Desenio

Hemnes day bed,

£499, Ikea

3
Squeeze
Bingham sofa bed,
£625, Made at Next

in a bed
If your spare room
doubles up as a
home office or
Velvet single sofa
dressing room
bed, £199.99,
when not being
Laura James
used for guests,
opt for a pull-out
bed or sofa bed
that gives guests
a place to sleep
but serves as
seating the rest
of the time. ➺

WOMAN 43
Homes Christmas teddy bear
duvet set, from £20, soft
throw, £4.50, Primark

5
On the nice list
sign, £2.50, B&M

Cater for kids

If you’ll be using your spare
bedroom for children’s sleepovers,
buy a festive duvet set, add some
fun cushions and decorations,
and maybe even a tree.
Candy
cane Gingerbread man
cushion, cushion, £14.99,
£12, Very Tenovus Cancer Care

4
Brighten up
the bedside
Clear away any clutter that might be loitering
in the spare room. Focus on the area around
the bed, tidying the bedside table, adding
fresh flowers or a candle and ensuring
there is space so guests can keep
their essentials to hand.
Robin and check bedding, from £19.99,
pomegranate apple wreath, £12.99,
Home Bargains

6
Tidy
Fleur ottoman footstool,
£99.99, Laura James

away
Spare bedrooms
can often become
a bit of a dumping
ground. Opt for
storage ottomans,
chests and lidded
stools that double
up as handy extra
seating but can also
be used to stash
bedding or out-of-
Leo storage
season clothes.
ottoman,
£55, Habitat

44 WOMAN
 Winter woodland
garland, £17.99,
Homescapes
Online

7
Set up a
clothes
rail
Make sure to provide
some hanging space

9
for guests’ clothes.
If there isn’t room
for a full-sized
wardrobe, a folding
clothes rail can be
a great temporary

Add greenery
Bellwood garment solution that can
rack, £375, Umbra be put away when

8
not in use. For a speedy fix that will make the spare
room feel super-festive, bring in some
greenery, either fresh or faux. Drape
garlands along surfaces, hang a mini
wreath on the door or tie swags
to hooks and door handles.
Wreath, £12.99, red berry garland,

Swap bedlinen £9.99, hessian sack, £2.99,

all Home Bargains
Make your guest bedroom instantly festive
with Christmassy bedding and mix-and-
match cushions, throws and blankets.
Tree cushion, £10, joy cushion, £15, Merry Christmas
cushion, £13, robin cushion, £10, winter foliage reversible
double duvet set, £15, alphabet stockings,
£11 each, all Matalan
Velour guest
towels, £6.99
for two, H&M

10
Make guests
comfy
Lay out a tray of treats
and essentials to ensure
your guests feel at home.
Include clean towels,
soaps and toiletries,
WORDS: LISA FAZZANI

perhaps an eye mask

and slippers, some Snowglobe
luxury chocolates Mini soaps, candle,
and a carafe of drinking £9.50 for three, £10, B&M
water for night-time. Oliver Bonas

WOMAN 45
 Travel

Start the new year feeling relaxed and refreshed at a sun-soaked retreat

W
henever you travel As you trek and slide down sandy hills, seafront, Lady Harimaguada, to the historic
to Gran Canaria in the you’ll feel like you’re in the desert here, Cathedral of Santa Ana, which affords
Canary Islands, glorious before catching a glimpse of the twinkling stunning views from the top of the tower.
sunshine is almost Atlantic ocean that gently laps beside it.
guaranteed. A trip in
January, when the daytime temperature
usually lingers around 21C, can be the
The island also features one of the most
exciting cities of all the Canaries – Las
Palmas. This is where you can experience
Soothe your soul
For those seeking unadulterated rest and
best time to visit. Offering a welcome vibrant nightlife, shop till you drop and recovery, the peaceful five-star Salobre
WORDS: FRANCES LEATE. PHOTOS: GETTY, SALOBRE HOTEL RESORT & SERENITY.

reprieve from the chilly, dark nights enjoy a stroll along Playa de Las Canteras. Hotel Resort & Serenity is the ideal place to
of the UK, it’s the perfect escape from This city beach is perfect for swimming or stay. Tucked away in the mountains near
post-Christmas blues, and what often people watching in the warmth of the sun. Maspalomas, it’s sure to give you the kick
feels like the longest month of the year. There’s much to see around the city, too, start to begin your new year in great shape.
from a striking abstract sculpture on the Its recently launched Tempo programme

Rest and play

Gran Canaria has plenty of
focuses on the all-important element
of good health – sleep – and features
tailored nutrition, mindfulness sessions,
tourist hubs, but away from indulgent evening
the hustle and bustle along massages in a
DETAILS CORRECT AT TIME OF WRITING

the sand-lined coast, you’ll find luxurious spa and

quaint historic towns and lush even a personalised
mountains peppered with palm evaluation with a doctor.
trees and greenery. Each room is equipped
Perhaps the most with the latest tech, too,
spectacular feature of all on including a Dyson Air
the island is the length of sand Purifier, a Loftie Lamp
dunes that stretch along the and a Wake-Up Alarm that
southern coast of Maspalomas. mimics the natural waking
Explore the vibrant
city of Las Palmas
46 WOMAN
 Indulge yourself at
the luxurious Salobre
Hotel Resort & Serenity

process to help you fall asleep a luxurious pool and a range

and come round in the of tempting treatments.
morning. Meanwhile, a Fitbit Included in the Tempo
watch will monitor and rate programme is a 50-minute
your sleep, so a sleep Dreamtime Relaxation
consultant can provide insight Massage and a 50-minute
into your habits and help Sleep Serenity Massage
resolve any sleep issues you that will have you ready for
may be experiencing. sweet dreams in no time, as
well as morning yoga and

Relax and unwind

During your stay, as well as
stretch sessions.
The hotel merges into its
mountainous surroundings,
enjoying delicious dinners with swimming pools perched
from the restaurants, with on several floors, including an
different theme nights, you infinity pool, and relaxing
can take advantage of daily lounge beds. It’s the perfect
fitness classes in the gym, spot to curl up with a good
or yoga and Pilates. There’s book or just gaze out
even a stargazing session towards the rolling sand
once a month in the garden. dunes. There’s even a secret
The hotel also features pool – a lot of fun to search for
a golf course and spa with and well worth the discovery.

✱ Always check the latest travel advice before booking a trip

 IF YOU
LOVE TO WIN
PRIZES THEN VISIT
Put your feet up and have a go at this week’s puzzle comps.womanmagazine.co.uk

W
hat do
singer Justin
Timberlake
and actor
Jerry Seinfeld
have in common? To find out,
solve the crossword then read
down the shaded squares to
find the five-word answer.

ACROSS
1 Bicycle part (5)
4 In this place (4)
6 Indian landmark (3,5)
13 Confessed (5,2)
14 Precious stone (7)
15 Star sign (5)
16 Finished (4)
17 Return money to (6)
18 Isaac _, scientist (6)
20 Top of a house (4)
21 Stringed instrument (5)
22 Wanting food (6)
25 Put off, delay (8)
28 Wears away (6)
30 Parent’s brother (5)
32 Spanish title for an unmarried
woman (8)
34 Makes a noise like a snake (6)
35 _ Moss, supermodel (4)
38 Natural fabric (6)
39 Writing material (5)
40 Type of bracelet (6)
43 Make money (4)
44 Attractiveness (6)
45 Inhales and exhales (8)
48 City in Florida (5)
49 Type of disk (6)
51 Clark Kent’s secret
identity (8)
54 National song (6)
55 _ Sawalha, actress (5)
56 Summer month (4)
58 Big striped cats (6)
PHOTOS: GETTY

60 Country in the Americas (6)

61 Casserole (4)
65 Regions (5)
66 US state (7)
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48 WOMAN
 Puzzles and stars

Starscope
DOWN 29
1 Snapshot (10) Give an account of (8)
2 Perilous (9) 31 Large Brazilian city (3,5)
3 Titled woman (4) 33 Amuse (9)
YOUR STARS FOR 16-22 DECEMBER 2025 BY PENNY THORNTON
4 Optimism (4) 34 Glad, joyful (5)
5 Sir Steve _, Olympic 36 Shrieks (7) ARIES 21 Mar – 20 Apr LIBRA 24 Sep – 23 Oct
rower (8) 37 Fortress (6) Last-minute doubts are It’s the season of goodwill,
7 Helps or assists (4) 41 Scent (7) not necessarily simply so reach out to someone
8 1998 song by Robbie 42 Bill of fare (4) nerves before a big event. Make you’ve lost touch with and good
Williams (10) 46 Jon _, comedian (10) sure you talk things through with things are sure to follow. We
9 Regular custom (5) 47 Submerged (10) a trusted advisor. Face your fears can’t alter the past, but we can
10 Gains knowledge (6) 50 Desserts (8) and then go do your thing. influence our future.
11 Period of 30 minutes (4-4) 52 Big hills (9)
12 Part of the eye (6) 53 Damage on purpose (8)
For your reading ☎09058 172557 For your reading ☎09058 172563
19 Speak softly (7) 55 Liam _, Taken actor (6)
23 Four-sided shape (9) 57 Assault (6) TAURUS 21 Apr – 21 May SCORPIO 24 Oct – 22 Nov
24 Roger _, former tennis 59 Colour of emeralds (5) If you’re expecting There’s a big difference
player (7) 62 Grows old (4) funds, make sure they between being realistic
26 Atomic particle (6) 63 Wound mark (4) are definitely on their way. and being negative. Something to
27 _ Armstrong, astronaut (4) 64 Appear (4) Finances are currently under think about if a situation doesn’t
uncertain stars, and delays and measure up to your expectations.
missteps are more likely. Work it through, don’t wreck it.

ANSWERS For your reading ☎09058 172558 For your reading ☎09058 172564

GEMINI 22 May – 22 Jun SAGITTARIUS 23 Nov – 21 Dec

SOLUTION: THEIR WIFE’S NAME IS JESSICA 68 Kindness, 69 Near, 70 Miser.
63 Scar, 64 Seem. 65 Areas, 66 Georgia, 67 Chemist,
55 Neeson, 57 Attack, 59 Green, 62 Ages, 56 June, 58 Tigers, 60 Mexico, 61 Stew, It’s the perfect time Saturday’s New Moon
50 Puddings, 52 Mountains, 53 Sabotage, 51 Superman, 54 Anthem, 55 Nadia, to marry or make a in your sign opens an
42 Menu, 46 Richardson, 47 Underwater, 45 Breathes, 48 Miami, 49 Floppy, serious commitment. By the exciting, fresh chapter – and with
36 Screams, 37 Castle, 41 Perfume, 40 Bangle, 43 Earn, 44 Beauty, same token, a relationship that Saturn in play it’s a serious
31 Sao Paulo, 33 Entertain, 34 Happy, 34 Hisses, 35 Kate, 38 Cotton, 39 Paper, has not got what it takes could business. That doesn’t mean you
hit a rut in the road. can’t be happy about it though.
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DOWN: 1 Photograph, 2 Dangerous, 3 Lady, ACROSS: 1 Pedal, 4 Here, 6 Taj Mahal, Only you can choose If it can be fixed, do
whether to put duty first so. If it can’t, let it go.
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WOMAN 49
 The warmth of a stranger’s Christmas prediction melted Tracy’s heart

I
t was easier to get across the road another week,’ Mary added breezily. had settled on him he looked as if he was
than normal after work. The snow ‘I’m looking forward to spending wearing something white.
was falling so thickly that the cars Christmas Day with Hannah,’ I said. The bus pulled up at the stop. Thank
were crawling along while their Just then I could see the welcoming lights goodness it was mine!
wipers fought a losing battle to of a bus approaching through the snow. The doors opened and I let the last few
keep their windscreens clear. There was a coating of snow on the front of people at the stop get on before me.
Despite the heavy traffic, the road was the vehicle, which was only cleared by the Seeing the man raise his hand to signal he
still covered in snow marked with tyre windscreen wipers. wanted the bus to stop, I put one foot on the
tracks, which filled up again as the cars Even the number of the bus was covered. platform, hoping he would make it in time.
passed by. It was only when it stopped in front of us Unable to close the doors and drive off,
Missing a glove, I checked through my that I could make out that it wasn’t mine. the driver looked angry. As did many of the
pockets without success. I looked into the ‘Well, this is for me,’ Mary said, getting passengers near the door. I could hear their
bag I was carrying and decided there was no on. ‘I hope you don’t have to wait too long, grumbles as the cold wind coated them in
way I was going to pull out all the parcels. Tracy. Happy Christmas then, see you in the more snow.
I would have to make do with one glove for new year.’ Just then, the man slipped and fell onto
the hand carrying the bag and put the other ***** the pavement. I could see now that it wasn’t
hand in my pocket to keep it warm. Most of the people at the stop also just the snow that had slowed him down.
I could already feel my feet turning to climbed on board. I looked at my watch. My He was quite elderly.
blocks of ice as they sank in the deep snow, bus was already five minutes late. The grumbles from the passengers were
and my face was adopting one permanent I tried to stop thinking about the cold. My growing louder. One man shouted at me to
frozen expression. mum always used to tell me if get on so the doors could close. I thought of
The bus shelter at least ‘My feet you didn’t think about it, you Hannah and the warm house, Geoff and

were like
blocked out some of the wind didn’t feel it. I didn’t know if it Mum. The sparkling lights of the Christmas
chill as I joined the crowd worked for her, but it never did tree – I could be there in 15 minutes. It

blocks
squeezing into it. The other for me. would be half an hour before the next bus
passengers were never normally I remembered how cold our – if it was on time.

of ice’
prepared to give up so much house had always been. It wasn’t *****
personal space, but on days like Mum’s fault. After Dad got ill, I moved my foot from the platform. The
this, sharing a stranger’s body there wasn’t much money for doors closed and the bus pulled away as I
heat didn’t seem unusual. heating. There was even less for Christmas. watched the glow from its lights fade.
‘Been shopping again, Tracy?’ a voice That was the reason I was spoiling my little I slid across the pavement towards the old
piped up. girl. I didn’t want her to go through the man, who was still lying on the ground.
‘Hello, Mary,’ I nodded to my workmate. bleak Christmases I had as a child. ‘Are you all right, are you hurt?’
‘Yes, at lunchtime, just to get a few more It wasn’t only Hannah I wanted to spoil. He looked up at me and held out his arm.
gifts for Hannah.’ Some of the presents in my bag were for my ‘I think I’m OK, but I might need a hand to
‘Your house must be full of presents for mum. She had been alone for too long, and get up.’
her now!’ this year she would have a lovely Christmas I put down my bag and tried to pull him
She was right. I had gone over the top with with us. I would make sure of that. up, wondering if I should have made him
treats for my two-year-old. If it went well, then maybe I could talk my stay still and called an ambulance in case he
‘It’s the first time she’ll understand husband Geoff into letting her stay for good, was injured.
what’s going on at Christmas, so I had to and get her out of that cold house where she We slipped around as though we were
spoil her.’ had struggled alone for so long. Our place doing some kind of strange dance, but
I wanted to change the subject as there would be a bit crowded, but Mum deserved eventually the man got to his feet. ‘Thank
was another reason why I had spent so some comfort after all she had done for me. you,’ he panted, trying to brush snow off his
much on my daughter. ‘I hope the bus is on I looked at my watch again. It had only trousers and coat.
time,’ I said, my breath making clouds. ‘I been five minutes since I last checked but I ‘I think we should get under the shelter,’ I
can’t wait to get home and put these under was getting colder and colder. I tried to urged. He nodded and we made our way into
the tree.’ think about how warm it would be at home the now empty bus stop.
Mary shook her head. ‘I wouldn’t bet on it, with Hannah, Geoff and Mum waiting for ‘I’m so sorry I have made you miss your
not with this weather. I’d say they are me in front of a roaring fire. bus,’ the man said.
already running late, going by this crowd.’ In the distance, I saw the lights of another ‘That’s OK, there will be another one
There were more people trying to huddle bus coming over the hill and I prayed it was soon, as long as you are all right.’
into the shelter and I was in danger of being mine. As it drew nearer, I saw a man I knew that wasn’t true but what else
pushed out. running towards the stop. His feet were could I have done?
‘Still, at least we won’t have to do this for slipping from under him, and so much snow He nodded and smiled at me. There was

50 WOMAN
 Short story

something about his face that made me glowing through the dark. ‘It couldn’t be I didn’t tell him what had happened.
smile too. He looked like a friendly mine again so quickly,’ I said. I shook the snow off my coat and went
grandfather. Despite his fall, there was a The man was smiling at me. ‘I think it is. into our cosy living room. The fairy lights
sparkle in his eyes that made me forget the I’m going to walk. I only live around the on the tree were sparkling and reflecting off
cold. There was a glow to his rosy cheeks as corner. I was just being lazy trying to catch the streamers festooned around the room.

‘I didn’t
though he was standing in the sun on a the bus.’ Hannah was sitting on Mum’s
summer’s day, rather than being in the He walked off, seeming lap gazing at the decorations.

tell him
middle of a blizzard. steady on his feet in the She looked entranced by the
‘It was really very kind of you to stop and terrible conditions. twinkling colours – and so did

what had
help me. Not many people would on an For a moment, I felt my mum. We hadn’t had a
evening like this, and miss their bus as well.’ annoyed. I’d missed my bus Christmas tree when I was a
‘I’m sure they would if they had seen what
happened,’ I said.
to help him and he didn’t
even want to get on it. But the happened’ young girl.
Geoff came and stood next to
He shook his head and, for a moment, he feeling didn’t last long when I me and I felt his arm slip
looked quite sad. remembered the genuine appreciation on around my waist.
‘I don’t think so unfortunately. Helping his face. ‘They look so happy together, don’t they?’
strangers seems to have become rarer The bus arrived at the stop and it was I whispered.
nowadays.’ He took my hand, which would mine. I couldn’t believe my luck that Geoff nodded, then leaned in and softly
normally have made me uncomfortable, but another bus had turned up so quickly. said, ‘I think we should ask your mum to
I felt completely at ease. I went to shout goodbye to the elderly move in.’
‘I think you and your family are going to man but could no longer see any sign of him I felt like all my Christmases had come at
have a very merry Christmas,’ he said. in the driving snow. once. And, as I turned to Geoff and hugged
‘You’ll get all you want.’ ***** him, I must have had a tear in my eye
I had a strange feeling he knew what he Geoff was looking out of the window as I because I could have sworn that the jolly old
was talking about. walked up the path. The front door opened Father Christmas on the sideboard gave me
‘Oh look!’ he gasped. ‘There’s another bus as I reached it. a cheeky wink.
coming, I hope it’s yours.’ ‘I was getting worried, love, you’re late.’ THE END
I turned and saw the lights of the bus ‘I missed a bus.’ Jane Foley

WOMAN 51
Our pick of what to watch this week, plus the best podcasts and new books…

S
arah Hadland is best-known for
playing Stevie in sitcom Miranda
and can currently be seen in Daddy
Issues. But, after showing off her
dancing skills in last year’s Strictly,
will she prove herself to be a talented potter
in The Festive Pottery Throw Down? Along
with comedian Tim Vine, TV personality
Amber Gill and Countdown host Colin
Murray, she will face three clay-based
challenges. Who will be crowned the winner
by judges Keith Brymer Jones and Rich
Miller? Here, Sarah reveals more…

How did you feel when you first entered

the pottery room?
I wouldn’t say I was nervous. I was excited.
What was quite worrying was that Colin
Murray had clearly been to lots of classes
and was taking it incredibly seriously,
whereas myself, Amber and Tim had just
done one class. There’s something very
gratifying about making something. I was
looking forward to that, and I loved it.

How does Throw Down compare to other

things you’ve done in your career?
When you’re an actor and things go wrong
on stage, it’s terrifying, but years of
experience kick in. You automatically do
things because you’ve a toolbox of skills.
With Strictly and Throw Down, you only
have what you’ve been taught, and that’s
very little. You think, ‘I don’t know what to
do here’, but that’s part of the joy.

What were the funniest moments in

the pottery room?
Sarah is out to impress
There was a lot of innuendo. Unintentionally,
the judges and host
apparently, and it didn’t stop!
Siobhán McSweeney

How did you feel having your work judged

by Keith and Rich?
There’s a savage bit in Throw Down where WHAT TO STREAM
Keith suddenly chucks things you have The latest releases to watch on demand

Goodbye June The Family

made into a bucket. Having not watched
the programme, I was not ready for that!

Next Door
Netflix
Keith is well-known for being moved to tears Kate Winslet directs
while judging. Were you aware of that? and stars in this one-off Prime Video
Yes. I wanted to make Keith cry, but I ended film, written by her son Joe Anders. The Based on Sally Hepworth’s novel, this six-
up crying. I was not expecting that. I thought drama tracks the messy dynamics of parter follows enigmatic Isabelle (Teresa
it would be a bit of fun, but it ended up being four siblings when their mum’s health Palmer), who moves into a small seaside
quite emotional! falters at Christmas. Timothy Spall, Toni cul-de-sac where her drive to solve a
Collette and Dame Helen Mirren also star. mystery casts suspicion on four families.
✱ The Festive Pottery Throw Down is on C4

54 WOMAN
 On the box

LISTEN UP BEST BOOKS

Zoe West picks the best reads for you
Front-page funnies and getting moving

Small Acts Of
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WOMAN 55
 Claire Sweeney on Corrie, Christmas and her unfulfilled ambition

S
he shot to fame as Lindsey Are you enjoying the rivalry between makes her laugh, they always find humour
Corkhill in Brookside, became Cassie and Tracy? in things. I want them to do Islands in the
a West End musical theatre star I’m loving the dynamics between me and Stream on karaoke at the Rovers!
and is one of TV’s most familiar Kate Ford [who plays Tracy]. Corrie is built
faces. Now Claire Sweeney has on rivalry between strong women, it dates Do you get the giggles doing
settled back in soap land as chaotic Cassie right back to the beginning of the show with lovey-dovey scenes with Simon
Plummer in Corrie. The Liverpool-born the likes of Ena Sharples. It’s great to see Gregson (aka Steve)?
performer, 54, has done it all, and in an Cassie and Tracy going at it – the feuds are We did a scene where Steve and Cassie
exclusive interview with Woman, Claire coming back! are sitting at the table snogging away.
reveals what’s left on Tyrone has just made them bacon
her career wish list.
‘It would be Do you think Cassie and
Tracy will call a truce and
butties and walks out in disgust. Alan
Halsall [who plays Tyrone] ad-libbed
Hi, Claire! How’s life
great to be swap presents under the tree?
I hope not! I’d like them to get
a line as he left the room, saying,
‘Make sure you get all the bacon out
WORDS: JOHNATHAN HUGHES. PHOTOS: GETTY, SHUTTERSTOCK, INSTAGRAM @CLAIRE.SWEENEY, FUTURECONTENTHUB.COM

on Coronation Street?
I absolutely love it.
The organisation is
Mrs McDonald’ drunk together and become
friends, then remember the
of my mother’s teeth, Steve!’ We fell
about laughing, and they kept it in!
brilliant, it runs like a next day how much they hate
military operation! We have Debbie and each other! Tracy still hasn’t forgiven You started out in Brookside,
Ronnie’s wedding over Christmas which Cassie for poisoning Ken, and I was nervous did you watch the crossover
we filmed on location, most of the cast were about filming that storyline. I couldn’t with Hollyoaks in October?
there and it was great to work with so many believe I was working with Bill Roache (aka I did! I thought it was wonderful
of them as we don’t often get the chance to Ken Barlow), but as a Corrie fan, poisoning how much love there still is for
do big group scenes. a national treasure was slightly traumatising! Brookie. When the theme music
came on, I had a little cry. The
How do you think Cassie has changed Is it love between Cassie and Steve? bit that really got me was the
since she arrived? He makes her feel like a teenager again. picture of Jimmy Corkhill in
On a very superficial level, she’s much more Cassie has been through some tough times Billy and Sheila’s house, Dean
glammed up now! and Steve [McDonald] Sullivan [who played Claire’s
When I first came
in I looked as
rough as anything,
these days her hair
is curled, she’s got
a bit of red lippy
on. Her character
has really evolved
and I love that.
That’s what
happens in real life
– people change,
they get clean, they
redeem themselves
Claire with her son and
and find happiness.
(right) her Christmas tree On-set with Simon Gregson
who plays Steve McDonald
56 WOMAN
 On the box extra

Claire with the late Dean

Sullivan and Sue Jenkin
EXCLUSIVE (above) revisiting the
s and
Close

on-screen dad Jimmy, and died in 2023]

was a huge part of Brookside.

Have you ever been back to the Close?

Funnily enough, and months before I knew
about the crossover, I took my son for a
drive there earlier this year. We were out
shopping and I went on a whim to show
him where I used to work. We pulled into
Brookside Close and I became a bit
emotional. I got out of the car with my
camera and a lady from one of the houses
said ‘Sorry luv, no photos, this is private
property…’ Then she did a double take
and said, ‘Oh, hello Claire! Do you
want me to take a picture for you?’

Are you looking forward

to Christmas?
My Christmas tree went up
straight after Halloween! It’s a bit
embarrassing going that early so
I keep my shutters closed for a few
weeks so no one can see it! Sally
Carman [aka Abi Webster] is the
same, we’re both Christmas nuts.
I’m doing Christmas in Liverpool
with all the family, then going on holiday
for New Year for some sunshine.

Have you got any unfulfilled

career ambitions?
I’ve never played Mrs Johnstone in Blood
Brothers, it’s been on my wish list forever.
What a cracking part. That show unleashed
my passion for musical theatre, it was the
first musical I ever saw. In terms of Corrie,
it would be great to be the next Mrs Steve
McDonald… Would Cassie be wife number
10, or something like that?

✱ Watch Claire in Coronation Street

on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays
at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX

WOMAN 57
 Columnist

View from
THE BACK
Isabel Webster says what you’re thinking
A TASTE OF THE PAST Time to crack down

T
TikTok videos of prisoners at HMP
here’s something strange Wandsworth showing off smuggled
about us Brits. Why are takeaways are alarming. No inmate
we so nostalgic for the should have a phone, social media
cuisine of yesteryear? or the luxury of a takeaway! This
I don’t believe food was better in was the prison that recently released
my childhood – quite the opposite. two men by mistake, and now
I’m still traumatised by chewing offenders are filming fried chicken
my way through ox tongue at my from their cells. If contraband food
grandma’s on a Sunday, or forcing and smartphones are circulating freely,
down the mysterious lumps something is fundamentally broken.
of offal my nana served,
with onions fried in
lard. Yuck. My mother
had her own culinary
QUOTE OF THE WEEK
quirks (sorry, Mum!).
She would lovingly
‘It’s naughty
ladle boiled spinach boxes that came in stocking-shaped but nice,
plastic nets and included Opal
onto a cold plate,
cos it’s
ISABEL PHOTO: STUART MITCHELL. OTHER PHOTOS (SOME POSED BY MODELS): GETTY

instantly turning it Fruits, Snickers and the glamorous

tepid and drawing out Terry’s Pyramint – the chocolate that Christmas!’
every metallic, earthy made you feel very sophisticated indeed.
note. To this day, I can’t eat The supermarkets have clocked the trend Amanda Holden
spinach without being transported too. Sara Lee’s Black Forest Gateau hasn’t on her cheeky
back to that mournful pile of wilted misery. officially been sold in Britain for nearly bottom-bearing
And yet, despite these memories – or perhaps 20 years, yet a new version at Waitrose choice of dress
because of them – a recent Mumsnet thread saw sales soar by 134% last year. Morrisons for The Fashion
revealed that scores of us are planning retro reports it as its fastest-growing pudding. Awards.
Christmas buffets with pride. Not smoked That’s not nostalgia – that’s a movement.
salmon blinis or bao buns. Not miniature Who remembers candied lemons? Or the
Yorkshire puddings with fillet of beef. No, ceremonial slicing of a hedgehog-shaped
we’re going full 70s, 80s and 90s! We’re talking
cocktail sticks skewered with cheese, pineapple,
display of cocktail snacks? So, if you’re
considering pushing the boat out with Flattery
and feminism
a pickle and a cocktail sausage. Devilled eggs. paella bites or artisan truffle arancini
Celery stuffed with Primula – the same Primula this Christmas, don’t waste your time
I used to help my mother squeeze from the tube, or money. What people really want – I ironed my husband’s shirts for the first
like culinary toothpaste. though few will admit it – is a proper time, and his joy was unexpectedly touching.
Millennials like me, who grew up in the 90s, retro buffet. Bring back the party Raised to believe I wasn’t educated to cook,
have also been reminiscing about selection hedgehog. It never truly left us. clean and run around after a man, I’m now
questioning if I am anti-feminist for

Dangerous time of year for some getting a kick out of it? Don’t worry,
though, I won’t make a habit of it!
Domestic-abuse incidents rise sharply over the festive
period – driven by financial strain, alcohol, families
trapped at home, and isolation. Christmas is sold as
joyful, but for many women, it’s the most dangerous
time of year. If you’re experiencing domestic abuse
this Christmas, get free support 24/7 at the National
Domestic Abuse Helpline on 0808 2000 247.

58 WOMAN
✱ Isabel is an award-winning TV news anchor and journalist
9000 9001