Vicky Pattison says she’s ‘overwhelmed and intimidated’ amid Strictly rehearsals

Vicky Pattison has admitted she feels “overwhelmed and intimidated” amid rehearsals for Strictly Come Dancing, as she continues the show with partner Kai Widdrington.

Vicky Pattison has admitted she feels somewhat out of place during rehearsals for Strictly Come Dancing, detailing how it can be “overwhelming” behind the scenes.

“All the pros are carved like angels, and I’m there sweating away in my gym gear. It’s both intimidating and overwhelming. But as you get older, you don’t often get the opportunity to get out of your comfort zone. I like to prove I’m capable,” she explained.

Vicky, 37, is partnered with professional dancer Kai Widdrington on the BBC dancing competition, and took on a Great Gatsby-themed Cha Cha for last weekend’s Movie Night performance.

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While she regularly hits the gym, Vicky tells Women’s Health that she doesn’t feel so fit when it comes to learning dance moves, admitting: “I think it’s going to be the cardio that lets me down… everyone is so fit.”

Vicky rose to fame on Geordie Shore as a rowdy twenty-something and was known for her antics on the MTV reality show, but says she’s keen to show people how different she is these days.

Admitting that the publicity that Strictly brings makes her worried about public perception, Vicky said, “I’ve spent 10 years working to show people that I was young, making mistakes and I wasn’t the best version of myself… I’m scared that under this spotlight, I’ll mess up.”

Last weekend, she and dance partner Kai received critical reviews from the judging panel. However, it was ultimately Ross King who was eliminated from the show on Sunday evening.

While she may be throwing herself into rehearsals, former I’m A Celeb! star says the show hasn’t had the greatest impact on her personal life. Vicky is married to Ercan Ramadan, and says he’s hoping to have her back home soon as the show has created a dip in their sex life.

“After a full day doing the Charleston the last thing you feel like is going home to do the Mattress Mambo,” I’m A Celebrity winner Vicky laughed.

“He’s having to be a bit patient at the moment. I think he’s the only person in my inner circle who is secretly hoping I get booted out. He’s my number one supporter though. I am really lucky but he’s probably hoping he gets sex soon.”

Vicky also admitted she’s been miffed with Ercan, 32, this week after he jetted off on holiday without her. “He’s actually in the dog house at the moment,” she admitted. “Obviously I love my husband but he’s been on holiday to see his family.

“We had this trip booked and then I got Strictly so I told him to go because all I’ve been doing is rehearsing, coming home knackered, whinging and going to bed. I told him to go away because he deserved a break putting up with me. So he went and I’ve been coming home to an empty house. He’s not there. The dogs are in day care because I’m working 14-hours a day. I’m coming home alone and it’s dark and cold.

“You need that normality coming home to your lovely partner or your dogs when you are out of your comfort zone, scared, lonely, working hard. It’s been really hard without him but he’s back now.”

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Liam Payne’s family raise £250,000 for children’s cancer one year after his tragic death

Liam Payne’s memory has inspired almost £250,000 in donations to support a new children’s cancer centre at Great Ormond Street Hospital

Nearly £250,000 has been raised in memory of Liam Payne to support children battling cancer, following the late singer’s tragic death last year.

The 31-year-old former One Direction star died on October 16 after falling from a balcony in Buenos Aires. At his funeral, Liam’s heartbroken family encouraged mourners to donate to Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) instead of sending flowers, and the response has been overwhelming.

A spokesperson for the children’s hospital confirmed that the donations will help fund a new cancer centre designed to offer “pioneering research, cutting-edge treatments and expert care.”

“We’re so touched by the generosity shown towards GOSH in Liam’s memory. Every donation is helping us take another step towards a world-leading children’s cancer centre.

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“It’s a place of hope which will help build the future of children’s cancer care and save more lives. It’s a lasting legacy that will make a difference for generations,” the statement added to The Sun.

According to the order of service from Liam’s funeral, the new centre will be a key part of his legacy. It read: “Thank you for your donation to Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity in memory of our friend Liam Payne.

“Your donation today will continue Liam’s legacy by helping to build a brand new Children’s Cancer Centre at Great Ormond Street Hospital. This incredible new building will help give seriously ill children childhoods that are fuller, funner and longer.”

The much-loved singer, who rose to fame in The X Factor boyband in 2010, was widely known for his charity work and generosity throughout his career. Fans around the world have also made private donations and shared messages celebrating the cause in his name.

Meanwhile, Liam’s girlfriend Kate Cassidy recently opened up about the depth of her grief, revealing she fell into a two-month depression after his death.

“I was always just kind of doing nothing and just dealing with that grief and pain,” she told Page Six, admitting she had felt “not wanting to really live my life.”

She shared that, over time, she began to rebuild her strength: “I finally realized, okay, I need to live my life, I need to get up, get out of bed.”

Kate said she began setting her alarm earlier each day, started exercising, and focused on “eating clean” and “living for both of us.”

Through the memorial donations, Liam’s loved ones say his name will live on and will help bring hope and healing to countless children and families.

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The Macmillan Support Line offers confidential support to people living with cancer and their loved ones. If you need to talk, call us on 0808 808 0000.

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Jowita Przystal says her ‘heart melts’ as she shares gushing message to Pete Wicks

Professional dancer Jowita Przystal has shared a heartfelt message about her former Strictly partner Pete Wicks as the pair continue to brush off romance rumours

Strictly Come Dancing professional Jowita Przystal has shared a gushing message to her former celebrity partner Pete Wicks as they continue to brush off romance rumours. The dancer, 31, sparked intense speculation of something more than friendship during her time with Pete on the BBC dance competition last year.

They both tried to play down the rumours, but drew attention when they shared many sizzling dance routines together and struck up a close bond away from the dancefloor. However, Pete, 36, became linked to Love Island’s Maura Higgins until they split earlier this year.

Things seemed to shift gears last month when Jowita made a surprise appearance at London’s O2 Arena for Pete’s Staying Relevant podcast show alongside best pal Sam Thompson. They performed a dance routine together and even shared a series of kisses on stage.

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Now, Jowita has shared a sweet message as she supported Pete with his latest project. The TOWIE star was back on screens this evening for his show, Pete Wicks For Dogs ‘ Sake as he helps pups find their forever home.

Jowita shared a photo of her TV as she settled down to watch the show as she gushed: “No words can describe how proud I am of you @p_wicks01. You’re one of the most passionate and hardworking people I’ve ever met.

“Your love for dogs is uncondiational, and is shines through in every moment of that episode. I hope you know what a difference you are marking, how life changing this show is for all those pups.”

She continued: “Every time I see you with them, my heart melts. The care, patience and compassion you show are truly beautiful. You never give up on them, you fight for them with everything you have.

“I know this whole season will be a huge success, because it’s made with love. And when you do something with love, it’s always powerful, beautiful and unique. Because it’s real. And that’s what this show is… it’s real [ red love heart emoji].”

Many thought the kiss on stage last month was final proof of something between Jowita and Pete, but again they have played it down to being in the name of showbiz. Pete appeared on This Morning to chat about his new show but was also quizzed on his feelings for Jowita.

After weeks of speculation, he revealed: “It’s all part of the choreography, it’s the magic of showbiz. Jowita is such a good friend of mine and that dance was something we didn’t get to do on Strictly because we didn’t make the final because I was useless!”

Just weeks before locking lips with Jowita, Pete confessed to being ‘in love’ on his podcast. Taking part in a lie detector test he was asked by pal Sam: “Are you in love with somebody right now?”

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Pete answered ‘no’, but he was proven to be lying as the polygraph examiner said he wasn’t telling the truth, by giving a thumbs down.

Fans went wild following Pete and Jowita’s very intimate dance as one asked: “Was that like a hard launch?” “Hard launch for Pete and Jowita,” a second said while a third wrote: “You & jowita” with a heart eye emoji.

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Stacey Solomon stunned as David Beckham sends thoughtful gift after ‘cringe’ interaction

Loose Women star Stacey Solomon was thrilled to receive a surprise parcel and handwritten note from David Beckham after fearing he ignored her plea for help

Stacey Solomon was “so excited” on Monday after receiving an unexpected gift from David Beckham, accompanied by a lovely handwritten note.

The Loose Women star, 35, had earlier sent Beckham a “cringe” Instagram voice note asking for beekeeping advice, after deciding to start her own hive at home. However, she had feared he would ignore it but was delighted to discover he had responded.

“I’ve been sent a parcel from… the Beckhams. How sweet that he actually replied to an Instagram!” Stacey shared on her Instagram story. And inside the package was a card from David that read: “To Stacey and Joe, I hope you enjoy the honey and snacks. Lots of love, David Beckham.”

Overjoyed, Stacey told her followers: “I’ve got David Beckham’s autograph! What a time to be alive! They’re obviously funny. This is the best thing ever! Thanks David we love you.”

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Stacey then revealed that sister Gemma encouraged her to reach out and explained the voice note: “I’m getting a beehive and I know you and Victoria have got bees and they’re a big part of your life, so I just wondered if you had any top tips or advice.”

Cringing as she sent it, she admitted: “I’m already regretting sending you this message because I know you’ll never see it, or hear it, and if you do you’ll probably think I’m a weirdo.”

Later, she told Gemma: “I’m going to be blacklisted from all cool things now because I’ve just sent David Beckham the most loser-ish message.”

Her husband Joe joked about the situation as he said: “Damn right he didn’t reply, he better not either. Hands off mate.

“I don’t need David Beckham as competition! It’s the last thing I need. I’ve got dogs, ducks, the last thing I need is David Beckham,” he added.

Former football ace Beckham manages bees at his £12 million Cotswolds estate and has turned the hobby into a business.

He launched BEEUP, a honey-based children’s snack brand sold in Target stores across the US.

Of his business, he said: “Beekeeping began as a hobby with my sons, but quickly grew into a deep appreciation for honey as a powerful superfood that provides natural energy.

“I am excited to make this wholesome, nutritious ingredient available for active kids and families in the form of these incredible BEEUP snacks.” And his wife Victoria affectionately calls the hobby “David’s Sticky Stuff.”

Meanwhile, Stacey has returned to the BBC with Stacey & Joe, a fly-on-the-wall series following life at Pickle Cottage with Joe and their five children.

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BBC responds to Gregg Wallace’s £10k ‘distress and harassment’ claim after MasterChef axe

Former MasterChef host Gregg Wallace is suing the BBC and one of its subsidiaries for up to £10,000 following his axe from the show as he claims he suffered ‘distress and harassment’

The BBC has issued a response to Gregg Wallace’s claim against them following his axe from MasterChef. Last week, it was reported the TV presenter was claiming up to £10,000 in damages from the BBC and one of its subsidiaries.

He claimed they allegedly caused him “distress and harassment” by failing to disclose to him his personal data. Wallace is suing the BBC and BBC Studios Distribution Limited after he was sacked from the hit cooking competition in July.

Last year, it was announced that Wallace would step away from his role on the BBC cooking show while historical allegations of misconduct were investigated. Over the summer, production company Banijay UK and the BBC said they had agreed “Mr Wallace’s return to MasterChef is untenable.”

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In court documents last week, barrister Lawrence Power said that Wallace was seeking damages for “distress, harassment and loss of amenity not exceeding £10,000”, damages under the UK General Data Protection Regulation, and interest. He is also seeking a court order that the BBC and BBC Studios comply with the subject access requests.

Now, the BBC has responded as they filed a defence at London’s High Court. They insisted Wallace was not “entitled to any damages” and said Wallace pursued his claim without giving them prior notice.

According to the Sun, the BBC said: “That voluntary disclosure demonstrates the claimant has no basis to claim damages for distress in respect of the withholding of such information.” The publication claimed Wallace is planning to launch a disability claim for damages regarding his then-undiagnosed autism.

Wallace began co-presenting MasterChef in 2005, but it was announced in November 2024 that he would step away from his role while the misconduct allegations were investigated. A review by law firm Lewis Silkin later upheld 45 of the 83 allegations against him, including one of “unwelcome physical contact”.

The report found that the “majority of the allegations against Wallace (94%) related to behaviour which is said to have occurred between 2005 and 2018”, with only one allegation substantiated after that year.

It also concluded that the “majority of the substantiated allegations against Mr Wallace related to inappropriate sexual language and humour”, adding that “a smaller number of allegations of other inappropriate language and being in a state of undress were also substantiated”.

The report noted that during the course of the investigation, which was over a seven-month period, Wallace was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, and said that the findings should be viewed in the context of his neurodiversity.

Wallace issued an apology saying he was “deeply sorry for any distress caused” and that he “never set out to harm or humiliate”. The former greengrocer said: “For eight months, my family and I have lived under a cloud. Trial by media, fuelled by rumour and clickbait.

“None of the serious allegations against me were upheld. I challenged the remaining issue of unwanted touching, but have had to accept a difference in perception, and I am deeply sorry for any distress caused. It was never intended.”

In July, the BBC said: “Although the full extent of these issues were not known at the relevant time, opportunities were missed to address this behaviour, both by the production companies running MasterChef and the BBC. We accept more could and should have been done sooner.”

The Mirror has contacted the BBC and Wallace’s representatives for comment.

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Britney Spears’ ex-husband Sam Asghari sends poignant message to her after sad divorce

Britney Spears’ ex-husband Sam Asghari has spoken out about his former wife while reflecting on their marriage and defending his intentions during their relationship

Sam Asghari has spoken out about his ex-wife Britney Spears, saying he only wants “the happiest” for her despite their split.

The 31-year-old actor and model was married to the pop superstar, 43, from 2022 until their separation in 2024. The pair first met in 2016 on the set of Britney’s Slumber Party music video and began dating soon after.

They announced their engagement in 2021 and tied the knot the following year in an intimate Los Angeles ceremony. Their marriage ended less than two years later, with Sam filing for divorce amid reports of “irreconcilable differences.”

Speaking to Us Weekly, Sam reflected positively on their time together, saying: “I just hope the happiest for her. And like I said before that, I celebrate the past, and it’s a big part of me, so I think everything should go well for her.”

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Sam, who is now dating Los Angeles real estate agent Brooke Irvine, went public with his new relationship in January after they were first spotted together in late 2024. “It’s been amazing,” he said of their romance.

Earlier this year, Sam revealed that before marrying Britney, he encouraged her to sign a prenuptial agreement to ensure her financial security.

Speaking on the Trading Secrets podcast, he explained: “I wanted her to have a prenup. I wanted to make sure she’s protected, because throughout her life, everybody – I don’t know one person that’s ever been in her life that didn’t take advantage of her. So it’s very sad. I wanted to make sure that I’m the person that [didn’t] do that.”

He also rejected claims that he ever used Britney for her fame or wealth. “I never get mad at the general public or fans or people that are seeing your life from a distance,” he said.

“Looking from an outside perspective, I see there’s an age difference, there’s a fame difference, there’s this, there’s that. But realistically, we met as co-stars.”

Now focused on his acting career, Sam said he isn’t concerned about public opinion. “It’s all for me,” he explained.

“My career is always going to be, I’m always going to do things that’s going to benefit the fans and people that are watching me. And I want to be a good example. But at the same time, it’s because that makes me feel better.”

It comes after Britney recently concerned her fans as she admitted to “snapping” her legs after falling down the stairs. The pop icon, 43, often takes to Instagram to upload clips of her dancing at home.

However, one of her latest posts caught the attention of fans as she had a knee support covering on her leg. She danced in a shimmering mini dress with feathered hem but also had white bandages on her hands.

Britney revealed her sons Sean Preston and Jayden James had just left to go to their home in Maui with dad Kevin Federline and shared how dance lets her feel free.

Alongside the post, the Baby hitmaker wrote: “This is the way I express myself and pray through art … father who art in heaven … I’m not here for concern or pity, I just want to be a good woman and be better … and I do have wonderful support, so have a brilliant day !!!”

In a concerning update, Britney added: “Psss I fell down the stairs at my friend’s house … it was horrible … it snaps out now and then, not sure if it’s broken but for now it’s snapped in !!!Thank u god.”

A large bruise could be seen on her wrist as well as smaller bruises along her arm and body. Just an hour later, Britney returned to Instagram in a leopard print bodysuit for more dance routines. She said: “As Madonna says, express yourself don’t repress yourself.”

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The fears for Britney come four years after her conservatorship, which had begun in 2008, was terminated in the wake of the online “Free Britney” movement.

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