Category Entertainment News

Olympic gold medallist Dame Denise Lewis has split from her music mogul husband Steve Finan after 18 years of marriage. The former athlete, 53, confirmed the news in an Instagram stories post on Tuesday.

Denise said in her statement – in white words on a black background: “After much thought and consideration, Steve and I decided to separate two years ago as a couple.

“This decision was made with mutual respect and care for one another after many meaningful years together.
“We remain grateful for the time we shared and the wonderful children created.

“We value the kindness and support from our family and friends over the last two years and our priority moving forward is maintaining a positive co-parenting relationship and focusing on the well-being of those we care about most.

“We appreciate your understanding for privacy during this time and as we move forward.”

It had been reported that Mr Finan, 60, who was the late Liam Payne’s manager for seven years, had moved out of the home he shared with Denise in Buckinghamshire, where the pair lived with their three sons.

One source told The Mail on Sunday at the time of the report: “It’s such a shame because they are both lovely people and were always thought of as a wonderful couple.

“Despite trying to make it work, Steve and Denise just found themselves drifting apart from one another.

“In the end they decided that breaking up was probably the most sensible thing to do.”

Heptathlete Denise was spotted without her wedding ring on air throughout her run as a pundit for the BBC’s Olympic Games coverage in 2024, and her social media accounts appear to be bare of any photos of her and Steve.

The pair also seem to have unfollowed each other on their socials.

Steve is the son of comedian Tom O’Connor, and met Denise in 2000 through mutual friends at the Brit Awards when he was then a pop manager looking after acts such as Neneh Cherry and All Saints.

They met again and started dating after Denise split from the Belgian sprinter Patrick Stevens – father to her daughter Lauryn.

Denise said in 2006: “I was still with Patrick when I first met Steve, then we met again more recently and it was sort of love at second sight.”

The Mail on Sunday said when Denise approached about their story about her marriage split in November 2024, she declined to comment but did not deny their separation.

Steve and a spokeswoman for Denise also declined to comment at the time.

Dr. Hilary Jones, a regular guest on Lorraine Kelly’s show, addressed his future on the program ahead of a significant ITV shake-up, saying he thankfully “got away with” the encounter.

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Lorraine show regular Dr Hilary Jones has opened up about a time he appeared on the programme while “drunk” – and later apologised to bosses. The professional medic has been a firm fixture on the show for several years, providing his expertise on a wide range of health topics. Reflecting on the early days of his appearances, Dr Hilary, 72, recalled a moment when his professionalism slipped while live on air.

He explained that he had met two of his brothers to celebrate having run the New York Marathon. I had no alcohol, no food, and plenty of beer, of course. On Lorraine’s show, I was scheduled to perform a live segment from a far away studio in Times Square.

The doctor claimed that Lorraine was “suddenly live” and that he was being questioned as he attempted to figure out the remote camera setup.

Because I was a little too drunk, all I can recall is giggling, laughing, and talking rubbish. I then realized that I had made a big mistake: They were going to fire me. What did I say?

3 images to be seen

Dr. Hilary claimed that he called the show’s bosses the day after fearing that his position had been compromised.

“I called them and said, “I’m really sorry,” and they responded, “Why?” You just sounded happy, and you sounded brilliant! It was very energetic and lovely, and you sounded euphoric. I escaped punishment for it, then.

Dr. Hilary has continued to appear on the program frequently since that humorous incident, speaking about the nation’s medical concerns.

However, next year will bring major changes to ITV’s schedule. From 2026, Lorraine and Loose Women will be shortened from an hour to 30 minutes and air on a “seasonal basis”.

3 images to be seen

Dr. Hilary remarked on his future involvement, saying, “I think I’ll be making guest appearances. Although the plan is still being developed, I will still have medical advice. I believe I’ll still be on breakfast TV because I’ve been with them for so long.

Meanwhile, Lorraine has shared her thoughts on the changes to the programme she has fronted since 2010.

“It’s a different world we live in, isn’t it? I’m a realist and I knew there had to be cutbacks and changes. There are so many more outlets now, and television has to cut its cloth in every single department. It’s not like it was,” she told Woman Magazine.

She continues to believe in the future despite the adjustments, saying, “This is just another change; who knows what will come next in six months?” They might want to expand, but they might not. We just move forward with it while watching what happens because I enjoy my job and enjoy working with these incredible people. Nothing can ever remain motionless.

Dr. Hilary Jones, a regular guest on Lorraine Kelly’s show, addressed his future on the program ahead of a significant ITV shake-up, saying he thankfully “got away with” the encounter.

3 images to be seen

Lorraine show regular Dr Hilary Jones has opened up about a time he appeared on the programme while “drunk” – and later apologised to bosses. The professional medic has been a firm fixture on the show for several years, providing his expertise on a wide range of health topics. Reflecting on the early days of his appearances, Dr Hilary, 72, recalled a moment when his professionalism slipped while live on air.

He explained that he had met two of his brothers to celebrate having run the New York Marathon. I had no alcohol, no food, and plenty of beer, of course. On Lorraine’s show, I was scheduled to perform a live segment from a far away studio in Times Square.

The doctor claimed that Lorraine was “suddenly live” and that he was being questioned as he attempted to figure out the remote camera setup.

Because I was a little too drunk, all I can recall is giggling, laughing, and talking rubbish. I then realized that I had made a big mistake: They were going to fire me. What did I say?

3 images to be seen

Dr. Hilary claimed that he called the show’s bosses the day after fearing that his position had been compromised.

“I called them and said, “I’m really sorry,” and they responded, “Why?” You just sounded happy, and you sounded brilliant! It was very energetic and lovely, and you sounded euphoric. I escaped punishment for it, then.

Dr. Hilary has continued to appear on the program frequently since that humorous incident, speaking about the nation’s medical concerns.

However, next year will bring major changes to ITV’s schedule. From 2026, Lorraine and Loose Women will be shortened from an hour to 30 minutes and air on a “seasonal basis”.

3 images to be seen

Dr. Hilary remarked on his future involvement, saying, “I think I’ll be making guest appearances. Although the plan is still being developed, I will still have medical advice. I believe I’ll still be on breakfast TV because I’ve been with them for so long.

Meanwhile, Lorraine has shared her thoughts on the changes to the programme she has fronted since 2010.

“It’s a different world we live in, isn’t it? I’m a realist and I knew there had to be cutbacks and changes. There are so many more outlets now, and television has to cut its cloth in every single department. It’s not like it was,” she told Woman Magazine.

She continues to believe in the future despite the adjustments, saying, “This is just another change; who knows what will come next in six months?” They might want to expand, but they might not. We just move forward with it while watching what happens because I enjoy my job and enjoy working with these incredible people. Nothing can ever remain motionless.

Alan Carr will tomorrow night battle to win The Celebrity Traitors, which ends on BBC One after a pulsating few weeks which has seen the likes of Sir Stephen Fry and Celia Imrie tease viewers

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The Celebrity Traitors’ star Alan Carr has filmed a pilot episode for a new BBC quiz show, it is reported.

The comedian has been described as “the hottest man on TV right now” amid his stint on the popular reality TV show, the final of which airs on Thursday. It is understood Alan, 49, worked abroad for BBC Studios at the end of last month for the new primetime, celebrity-led format.

“Unquestionably, Alan is the hottest man on TV right now. Everyone wants a piece of him. But the BBC have acted quickly and last week he was jetted out to a swanky European city for a day of filming a pilot”, a source said.

Alan has also been linked with one of the Strictly Come Dancing roles, we reported last week. He has been praised for his charisma and competitive attitude, traits said to be admired by Strictly bosses.

READ MORE: Traitors star accused of being Charlotte Chilton’s baby father breaks silenceREAD MORE: Cat Deeley’s cosy cable knit maxi dress from This Morning is now on sale with 30% off

View 2 Images

But first, if the pilot is successful, it is understood Alan will get a bumper deal to front the new game show. It will be one of the first regular shows Alan has presented solo since Chatty Man on Channel 4, which ended on Christmas Day 2017 after an eight-year stint. He did, though, host Picture Slam, which returns next week.

And the pilot is indeed believed to have been well-received by bosses at the Beeb. Speaking to The Sun, the source added: “It went well and now it’s just a matter of when, not if, this gets green-lit.” However, details of the exact nature of the show are top secret for now, the insider stressed.

READ MORE: Big Brother’s AJ Odudu faces unexpected setback after BBC blunder despite high hopes

Some 15 million viewers are expected to tune in to see who wins tomorrow’s Celebrity Traitors final, featuring Alan’s fellow Traitor, singer Cat Burns, with Faithfuls ex-rugby star Joe Marler, comedian Nick Mohammed and historian David Olusoga. Joe has also impressed in the smash-hit series, so much so there is speculation he, too, could have his own programme. The 35-year-old former rugby player has even been rumoured to become the next James Bond.

Jonathan Ross, who was banished last week, has been given a one-year contract extension with ITV amid the success of The Celebrity Traitors. However, if Alan gets a new chat show, the funnyman could well go head to head with his fellow former Traitor.

Alan Carr will tomorrow night battle to win The Celebrity Traitors, which ends on BBC One after a pulsating few weeks which has seen the likes of Sir Stephen Fry and Celia Imrie tease viewers

View 2 Images

The Celebrity Traitors’ star Alan Carr has filmed a pilot episode for a new BBC quiz show, it is reported.

The comedian has been described as “the hottest man on TV right now” amid his stint on the popular reality TV show, the final of which airs on Thursday. It is understood Alan, 49, worked abroad for BBC Studios at the end of last month for the new primetime, celebrity-led format.

“Unquestionably, Alan is the hottest man on TV right now. Everyone wants a piece of him. But the BBC have acted quickly and last week he was jetted out to a swanky European city for a day of filming a pilot,” a source said.

Alan has also been linked with one of the Strictly Come Dancing roles, we reported last week. He has been praised for his charisma and competitive attitude, traits said to be admired by Strictly bosses.

READ MORE: Traitors star accused of being Charlotte Chilton’s baby father breaks silenceREAD MORE: Cat Deeley’s cosy cable knit maxi dress from This Morning is now on sale with 30% off

View 2 Images

But first, if the pilot is successful, it is understood Alan will get a bumper deal to front the new game show. It will be one of the first regular shows Alan has presented solo since Chatty Man on Channel 4, which ended on Christmas Day 2017 after an eight-year stint. He did, though, host Picture Slam, which returns next week.

And the pilot is indeed believed to have been well-received by bosses at the Beeb. Speaking to The Sun, the source added: “It went well and now it’s just a matter of when, not if, this gets green-lit.” However, details of the exact nature of the show are top secret for now, the insider stressed.

READ MORE: Big Brother’s AJ Odudu faces unexpected setback after BBC blunder despite high hopes

Some 15 million viewers are expected to tune in to see who wins tomorrow’s Celebrity Traitors final, featuring Alan’s fellow Traitor, singer Cat Burns, with Faithfuls ex-rugby star Joe Marler, comedian Nick Mohammed and historian David Olusoga. Joe has also impressed in the smash-hit series, so much so there is speculation he, too, could have his own programme. The 35-year-old former rugby player has even been rumoured to become the next James Bond.

Jonathan Ross, who was banished last week, has been given a one-year contract extension with ITV amid the success of The Celebrity Traitors. However, if Alan gets a new chat show, the funnyman could well go head to head with his fellow former Traitor.

Home Bargains must adhere to the same law as other retailers

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Home Bargains has clarified its 15p carrier bag rule for customers across the nation. The Liverpool-based retailer, officially known as TJ Morris Ltd, ranks among the UK’s most rapidly expanding discount chains.

Boasting more than 600 locations nationwide and employing over 28, 500 staff, the business stands as the UK’s largest independent grocery operator. Tom Morris launched the inaugural Home Bargains shop, originally called Home and Bargain, in Liverpool back in 1976, and it has since grown into a nationwide presence.

The stores have become favourites for their budget-friendly homewares, groceries, beauty products and toys. Home Bargains shoppers wanting their items bagged must pay 15p per bag.

The company’s website outlines the reasoning behind the 15p charge for plastic carriers, claiming it offers “the cheapest” reusable option available. The statement explains: “As a company, we have decided to only sell reusable carrier bags at 15p (40p in Northern Ireland), as we believe that this is the cheapest and most cost-effective reusable carrier bag on the high street.

” This will not only benefit the environment but also our customers. We also encourage customers to bring their own reusable bag with them when they visit. “