Category Entertainment News

Coronation Street star Cait Fitton, known for her role as Lauren Bolton, has been on holiday with her boyfriend in the Dominican Republic

Coronation Street star Cait Fitton was slammed by PETA after she shared a picture of herself swimming with a dolphin while on holiday. The 23-year-old soap star, who is best known for her role as Lauren Bolton on the long-running ITV soap, recently shared a few posts from her sunny holiday in the Dominican Republic.

In one picture shared online, Cait was seen laughing with joy as she appeared to ride a dolphin in the ocean. In one snap taken outside Dolphin Island Park in Punta Cana, the soap star wrote: “Such a surreal experience. Pictures pending …. Swim with dolphins in the wild.” She also kissed a dolphin in one picture shared on her page.

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What she thought was a wholesome post received criticism from animal rights charity PETA. They released a statement saying: “PETA is rushing Cait a copy of The Cove, as she simply can’t be aware that dolphins exploited for these cute-seeming encounters are often violently torn away from their families and ocean homes and have almost no semblance of a real life.

“Instead of exploring, raising their young, and swimming vast distances, captive dolphins are forced to spend decades performing confusing tricks in cramped tanks while being fondled by strangers.

“We hope PETA’s facts will open her eyes to the dolphins’ plight and that she’ll take down any social media pictures promoting this cruel industry, which imprisons wild animals for profit.”

The Mirror have reached out to Cait’s representatives for comment. Cait’s holiday snaps comes a few weeks after she went Instagram official with her new boyfriend.

She teased her new partner for several weeks, telling fans her “boyfriend” had bought her a Jellycat toy.

And at the end of June, she took her new romance to the next level, having shared a photo on her story showing some silver ’23’ balloons, as well as a photo of what appears to be her boyfriend.

She sweetly wrote: “A day celebrating you,” following her message with a white loveheart emoji. Her previous story post showed a collage of images of her with her partner, with Cait writing: “Happy birthday to my man.” She added: “Thank you for blessing my life.”

The snaps showed them posing for a selfie, as well as a fun photo of them glammed up posing together. Another photo showed them holding hands, but she’s still not named her new partner.

Cait previously discussed the difficulties of fame, telling the Mirror: “It’s taken me a long time to have thick skin, it’s not an overnight process.

“We are normal people outside of filming, but everyone sees the characters as actual people. That can be really hard, especially with Lauren, who is a complex character.”

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Christine Lampard wowed fans during her appearance on Lorraine this week, with a flowing white midi dress that hails from Michelle Keegan’s very own fashion line

Lorraine viewers were thrilled when they tuned in yesterday (July 10) and discovered Christine Lampard was appearing on the show. They were even more impressed with her chosen outfit for the show, which was a beautiful flowing white midi dress which Christine later revealed on Instagram was part of Michelle Keegan ’s collection with Very.

Her exact dress was the Pleated Corset Sleeveless Dress , which is currently on sale down from £70 to £56 saving you £14. The structured shape and soft white colour were a great nod to the Wimbledon whites trend that’s still dominating as we head towards the end of the tennis tournament, and would make a great last minute outfit if you’re planning on attending any Wimbledon events.

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Christine said she was “loving” the dress, and a quick look reveals it’s still available in all sizes from a six to a 20, with Very recommending you take your usual size. It has a midaxi length which measures approximately 54.5 inches and is designed to land somewhere between a midi and maxi dress, although where it falls depends on your height.

The fit and flare shape of the Pleated Corset Sleeveless Dress also makes it flattering on all body shapes and sizes, with a fit and flare silhouette which is fitted on the top before flowing out around the hips to create some movement. The corset-inspired bodice and dropped waistline also help accentuate and create the illusion of curves for a feminine shape.

Although its structure and shape are what make the dress such a statement, it can make it lean a little more formal than you might want for everyday wear. For a slightly more casual look, this White Sleeveless Tiered Charlie Midi Dress from Nobody’s Child is a great alternative, and it’s also on sale down from £85 to £72.25.

It keeps the same fitted on top, flowing midi skirt silhouette, but rather than a corset bodice, it has a stretchy shirred top with a tiered skirt that keeps it more laid back whilst still looking elegant. For something a little more holiday-ready, the Sleeveless Crochet Patch Maxi Dress from ASOS is £40 and has crochet detailing on the top, with a maxi length skirt that has less volume than Christine’s Very one.

Very shoppers have been loving the quality and fit of the Pleated Corset Sleeveless Dress , however. One called it a “Lovely dress” and added: “I am so pleased with this dress. The neck is slightly tight but as over all it came a little large for me so I won’t be sizing up. It’s a very heavy dress so fits nicely and hangs well.”

Another shared: “I wore this dress to a funeral, it was very beautiful.”

The main issue most found was with the neck with one saying: “I originally ordered a size 12 that fit like a glove but strangled my neck. So I ordered a 14, as I love the dress and really wanted it, so I thought the neck wouldn’t be as tight. The neck was the same on the size up aswell. I’m gutted as I really wanted to wear this to Royal Ascot. All sent back.”

And another agreed: “The dress is very pretty and fabric feels decent quality, but the neck it quite high, stiff and tight which makes it uncomfortable.”

However others loved it despite the snug fitting neck, with one saying: “This dress is absolutely stunning! The quality for the price is amazing, considering I nearly bought a very similar dress for £198 I was so pleased I came across this. Only problem is the high neck felt like it was choking me. The zip is very delicate so had to size up so it didn’t break. Hoping once the bigger size arrives the neck area is solved as I can’t wait to wear it. If your curvy I would suggest sizing up.”

Actor Jake Wood will return to EastEnders to reprise his role as Max Branning, it has been announced.

The character last appeared on screen in February 2021.

Wood said: “I’m over the moon to be coming home to Walford. Max has got lots of unresolved drama with many characters, so I’m sure he’ll be busy.

“I’m excited to see what he’s been up to, and what is next for the character, but if his last 15 years in the Square are anything to go by, I’m sure there will be plenty of chaos.”

Max will return briefly in autumn, before making a permanent return later in the year.

During his first stint on the soap Jake became a fan favourite of viewers with his character Max being at the heart of several huge storylines.

The Christmas Day episode where it was revealed that Max had an affair with daughter-in-law Stacey Slater, played by Lacey Turner has become known as one of the most chaotic festive specials ever.

Max will return to Albert Square to find his daughter Lauren (Jacqueline Jossa) expected to marry into the Beales, Stacey widowed, and a secret daughter with ex-lover Linda yet to be discovered.

Speaking on the Scott Mills Breakfast Show on BBC Radio 2, Wood said his return to the show was “quite emotional” and added it felt “like a very warm hug”.

He said: “I just felt like it was the right time.I spoke to so many people there, they’re just loving being there at the moment, I had a meeting with the new executive, Ben Wadey, back in January, and we went for lunch, and he just sort of outlined all of his ideas.”

He continued: “There’s just so many characters that Max has got drama with, so it felt like the right time to go back and mix things up a bit.”

Wood went on to say his character’s return would be “high, high, high drama” and added that it would not be “friendly and warm”.

EastEnders executive producer Wadey said: “I’m delighted to welcome the immensely talented Jake Wood back to the role of Max Branning.

“Whilst his character has only been away from Albert Square for four years, Walford, and the lives of those who live in it, have changed immensely.

“Max has a lot of unfinished business, but whether he is welcomed by his family remains to be seen.

“However, with a past as chequered as Max’s, it’s fair to say that many Walford residents will not be pleased to see him, putting the Brannings back at the heart of the square, and the drama, this year.”

Max previously left EastEnders on February 19, 2021 bringing to an end a 15 year run on the show.

.Max left Albert Square after burning bridges with many of his family and friends, and he joined his daughter Lauren and grandson Louie in New Zealand.

Since Jake’s final EastEnders scenes aired in early 2021, the popular actor has certainly been keeping himself busy – launching a podcast and starring in West End show 2:22: A Ghost Story.

Bez of the Happy Mondays has had his say on the upcoming Heaton Park Oasis gigs as he admits he isn’t surprised the band got back together for their reunion tour

Happy Mondays star Bez says the Oasis homecoming gigs in Manchester will be a “monumental moment” in music history. The dancer and pal of Shaun Ryder has toured with the Gallaghers and is thrilled they are back.

Talking of the shows this weekend at Heaton Park, Bez told us: “I think it’ll be absolutely phenomenal. It’ll be really big in time. A monumental moment, that’s what it’s going to be.”

Noel and Liam will be taking to the stage in their hometown for the first time in 16 years. While many could never see this moment happen, Bez, 61, thinks it was never in doubt.

Follow along the Mirror’s live Oasis updates for Heaton Park here.

“I’ve always known it’s gonna happen as soon as they broke up,” he said. “It’s like the Blues Brothers, you know what I mean? Getting the band back together again. And there’s always going to be that time when they have had to go ‘let’s get the band back together again’. And that time is now.”

He also admitted people resonate with the once-lairy brother because they’re “proper boys”. “They’re great. They’re working class lads, aren’t they? Proper boys. You know, you’ve got to take off your hat, because they’re living the dream.

“For me, it’s harder than being a footballer, because you’ve got more chances of being a footballer than a musician.”

Bez, 61, also tipped the icons to bring out new material, saying: “They could make another album. I can’t see why they wouldn’t do it because I’m sure it’d be a worldwide hit to bring another album out after the reception they got.

“You know, what a retirement plan, if that’s the last thing you do. I’m sure they’d go for the retirement plan. If they don’t, they’re mad!”

And he said he “can’t speak more highly of the lads”. “They’re everything you’d hope for them to be. I really like them both and wish them luck. I hope they do go on and make a new album as it’ll be amazing. There’s obviously a lot of legs left in Oasis.”

The Happy Mondays opened for Oasis back in 2000 and Bez said he is eternally grateful for them helping to bring him back to the big stage. Part of Oasis’ Standing On The Shoulder Of Giants tour, the Happy Mondays got the crowd pumping before the Mancunians took centre stage.

And during one of their sets at Wembley, Liam even joined the band for a special moment in history. “On a personal level, I just got over a massive spell in hospital,” Bez said of the tour.

“I had a really bad motorbike crash at the time, and they were my first gigs coming back with Oasis. So, I went from my deathbed to supporting Oasis in front of the biggest crowd you’ve ever seen.”

The near-death experience had left Bez, real name Mark Berry, in intensive care with broken bones and a punctured lung, fighting for his life. Doctors had called family and friends into hospital telling them he wasn’t going to make it through the night.

However, he wouldn’t share any behind-the-scenes secrets from the tour, joking “loose lips sink ships”. But the connection between the two bands remains, with Noel recently recording a tune with Bez’s new band, Mantra of the Cosmos.

Domino Bones (Gets Dangerous), written by Noel and Shaun, brings the two worlds back together again. “Mantra of the Cosmos is like Dylan, Dali and Ginsberg on a rocketship to the moon to have it with the Clangers,” Noel previously said.

While Bez may have given up the opportunity to see this weekend’s huge show, giving his tickets to family instead, he will be DJ-ing over the weekend at the official Oasis after parties and is also taking part in a Britpop celebration on Europe’s largest digital ceiling in Manchester.

The space will come alive in spectacular fashion with a vibrant visual display voiced by Bez himself. The immersive installation will run all throughout July and will pay homage to the golden era of 90s British music and culture, featuring animated sequences of iconic imagery, from Union Jack motifs and recognisable fashion to kaleidoscopic colours that evoke the spirit of the decade.

And speaking of the Oasis after parties, Bez added:: “People can expect to just have a good time, really. That’s what I’m planning on doing, anyway. I don’t know about the rest of you!”

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Glasgow-born Anita Manning has been a familiar face on the BBC’s Bargain Hunt for over a decade and has also made numerous appearances on other TV shows. Here’s everything you need to know about the antiques expert

Bargain Hunt enthusiasts are well-acquainted with the show’s beloved expert, Anita Manning. The Glasgow-born treasure hunter has been a familiar face on the programme since her debut in 2010 and at 77, she’s not only graced screens on Flog It! and Antiques Road Trip but also carved out a remarkable niche in history.

Anita’s fascination with antiques was sparked by childhood visits to auctions in Glasgow with her father. She proudly holds the title of Scotland’s first female auctioneer, boasting over 50 years in the trade. Before diving into the world of antiques, Anita pursued studies in PE and dance, later shifting her focus to the buying and selling of furniture.

Alongside her daughter, she has helmed Great Western Auctions in Glasgow since 1989. Reflecting on her illustrious career, Anita shared her enduring love for antiques.

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She said: “For as long as I can remember I have been passionate about Art, Antiques and Auctions.”, reports the Daily Record.

The star continued, expressing her admiration for the craftsmanship and design of the pieces she encounters, as well as the rich social history they represent, adding: “The beauty in craftsmanship and design, coupled with the social history of the objects, that I am privileged to handle on a daily basis, has been a continual source of joy.”

Anita also touched on the thrilling nature of her profession, stating: “The drama and excitement of the auction world has been a most stimulating environment and one I relish being a part of.”

She concluded by recounting the origins of her business venture, revealing: “Great Western Auctions was established in 1989 by myself and my daughter, Lala.”

Anita pointed out: “Although the company has grown enormously over the last 26 years, we still regard ourselves as a family firm providing a personal experience and dedicated service to our clients.”

The auctioneer was once known for her iconic black bob but has recently undergone a stunning transformation, embracing a chic grey crop that left her followers in awe.

Admirers have been scratching their heads about Anita’s age as she’s been a fixture on our screens for so long – she turned 77 last year and is gearing up to celebrate number 78 at the end of 2025.

Apart from ruling the roost in the antiques world, Anita balances motherhood, with her son Luke residing in Hong Kong, while her daughter Lala teams up with her in business.

Anita’s commitment doesn’t end at antiques; she’s heavily involved in charity work, fuelled by her passion for lending a helping hand.

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She had reason to pop the champagne last year when a Francis Campbell Boileau Cadell masterpiece, “Dahlias,” fetched an eye-watering £220,000 under her gavel.

Taking charge as the managing director and lead auctioneer, Anita started the bidding at an ambitious £80,000 and later shared: “Scottish Colourist still life works remain in demand, with an international fanbase.

“They are fresh, modern-looking, instantly recognisable and have a universal appeal, a century on from being created.”

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