Hollyoaks Star Goes Instagram Official With Stunning New Girlfriend After Quitting Soap For Normal...

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HOLLYOAKS star Billy Price has gone Instagram official with his stunning new girlfriend after quitting the soap for a normal job.

Billy , 24, who departed the Channel 4 soap last year in favour of setting up a sock business , posted an adorable selfie with his new love earlier this month.

The former actor cosied up to brunette beauty Pearl Beaney during a night out in Covent Garden, as seen in an end-of-year Instagram dump.

Although his role on the show was originally meant to be a guest appearance, his character was promoted to a series regular.

But nowadays the actor has set up his own business which specialises in socks and other clothing items.

Before starring in Hollyoaks and becoming a businessman, Billy worked on a number of big projects .

He started his career when he was just a youngster, treading the boards in a series of theatre productions.

TV Actress Who Promised 'Truths Will Come Out' Shelves Plans For Tell-all Autobiography...

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The Royle Family actress, 43 , announced her book Honestly in 2021 to be released in October that year but it faced multiple delays.

Sheridan, who appeared in Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps from 2001 to 2009, had worked with a ghostwriter but the book has now been axed.

Those close to Sheridan insisted she still wants to finish her book in the future, but that she has been too busy.

Emmerdale Star Shares Sweet Tribute To Dean Andrews After Will's Exit

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Emmerdale 's Olivia Bromley has shared a sweet tribute to former co-star Dean Andrews following his final performance as Will Taylor.

Andrews, who joined Emmerdale in 2019. dramatically departed the ITV soap in the Boxing Day (December 26) episode.

The post, which included a photo featuring Bromley and Andrews with their co-stars on set, received a warm response from fans and followers in the comment section.

One wrote: "@oliviabromley_ I'm shocked. Can't believe he's gone. @deanoandrews you were a great actor."

Others also expressed their hopes that the development was a ruse and that it's part of a larger plan to bring Kim down.

UK High Street Panic As Fewer Shoppers Trek Out Due To Online Sales And Weather | UK | News...

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High street retailers have reported a dismal festive trading period as people turned to online shopping during the windy and wet weather.

But there was a glimmer of hope – as footfall figures surged during the last weekend and the final days before Christmas.

And on Friday, bargain hunters flocked to the High Street for the proper start of the Boxing Day sales, with shopper numbers up by 20 per cent compared to the same day last year.

Jenni Matthews, of MRI Software, which provided the data, said: "This is an encouraging sign for towns and cities, and could be reflective of shoppers seeking out Boxing Day bargains and enjoying leisure activities, which are increasingly becoming integral to retail destinations."

However, the British Independent Retailers Association said that trading for December was worse than last year's – and some small shops may be forced to close in the new year as a result.

"Businesses on the high street have just had a tough year and Christmas has not brought any cheer, to be honest. Everyone was hoping December would lift spirits." Despite average wages rising above inflation, the expert also noted: "There is too much negative talk about the economy – people don't feel confident they can look forward, spend and feel happy about that."

Mr Goodacre stated that the start of the next year "looks like being very difficult for many" small retailers, saying: "My fear is that some may say, 'Enough is enough, it's time to get out.'"

He feels that more will follow when the minimum wage, business rates and employer's national insurance contributions all rise in April.

London's New Year's Eve Fireworks In Jeopardy As Expert Issues Wind Warning

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Most of the UK will be covered by at least one of the multiple weather warnings issued by the Met Office this week, as the stormy year of 2024 comes to a close amid another barrage of snow, wind, rain, and freezing conditions . New Year 's celebrations have already been cancelled in Blackpool in the last few hours due to forecasted unsafe conditions, and worries are now mounting among would-be spectators that London's huge televised fireworks display could be next in line.

Former Ministry of Defence research scientist turned fireworks display firm boss, Stephen Miller, told the Sun that ⁘wind speed and direction⁘ would determine what happens on Tuesday night. Explaining how the event may still go ahead but with changes, he said: ⁘It may be the case of cutting out the biggest fireworks from the display.

⁘Because it's all controlled by a computer system they can quickly flick a few buttons to remove some of the bigger effects, but they always design displays so there are smaller effects alongside the bigger ones so the general public wouldn't notice if the bigger ones are missing.⁘ Other potential contingency plans may include changing the location of crowd barriers to avoid people being hit by pieces of downwind cardboard and small debris from the rockets.

On New Year's Eve, Met Office forecasters say delays to all types of transport are ⁘likely⁘ as strong winds persist and may reach speeds of up to 70mph in England and Northern Ireland. Winds of up to 60mph are also forecast across a larger area covering much of England and Wales all day on New Year's Day, with gusts of 75mph likely around coastal areas and hills, according to the Met Office. The warning for wind is in place from 7am until midnight on Wednesday.

Northern England has already started to be battered by blustery conditions, with gusts expected to ramp up to 60mph on Monday, according to the forecaster. A weather warning is in place where strong winds could impact travel plans until 6pm in areas including Durham, Northumberland, Cumbria and North Yorkshire.

Hollyoaks Star Reveals Mental Health Struggle During Second Pregnancy | Soaps

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Hollyoaks star Chelsee Healey has opened up about experiencing 'dark thoughts' while struggling with her mental health during her second pregnancy.

'There were times when I would have dark thoughts then blame myself, because I would think, "How can I be like this when I am pregnant and have a young girl who needs her mum?"

'There were moments when I couldn't get out of it mentally and then I would put myself in a bigger hole, thinking, "Why am I feeling this way?"'

She went on to explain that her mental health reached such a low that doctors took her in for a caesarean section three weeks before her due date.

'Cookie was due on January 14 and they put me in for my C-section on ­December 22. They knew I was really struggling.'

Chelsee admitted that her struggles continued after the birth as she was diagnosed with post-partum depression, but that counselling throughout the 'tough' process helped.

Want to be the first to hear shocking EastEnders spoilers? Who's leaving Coronation Street? The latest gossip from Emmerdale?

Devastated Emmerdale Star Axed After Seven Years In ITV ‘Cash Crisis' | TV & Radio | Showbiz & TV...

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An Emmerdale actress is reportedly "devastated" after suddenly being given the axe from the ITV soap . Susan Cookson - who plays nurse Wendy Posner - has allegedly already filmed her final scenes after seven years on the popular programme.

According to reports, the decision came about as the broadcasters have had to make "budget cuts". A source allegedly told The Sun: "Susan was devastated at the decision. She loves the show and loves being part of it.

"She's really well liked in the cast but unfortunately budget cuts mean hard decisions need to be made and that resulted in Susan being one of a number of cast leaving."

They continued: "ITV is going through a cash crisis with the soaps and the money just isn't there to pay for everyone any more. Ultimately if the character isn't inspiring a lot of story from producers then there's no space for them in the show anymore.

Elsewhere on the ITV soap, Dean Andrews who plays the role of Will Taylor was axed in a grisly way, with his final scenes airing on Christmas Day (December 25).

In a desperate attempt to justify his actions, Will insisted he had abandoned his scheme out of genuine love for Kim. However, the stress of the situation proved too much, and he collapsed clutching his chest.

Meanwhile, Dean has previously discussed leaving the show, admitting that it would require a decision from the bosses for him to exit.

The actor confirmed his retirement plans following the end of his character Will's storyline on Emmerdale . He shared: "I feel very settled.

Coronation Street Actress Was Snubbed By ITV Bosses For Emmerdale Role As Major Character's...

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Headlines:

Coronation Street star Channique Sterling-Brown has revealed before landing the role on the ITV soap she audtioned for a role in Emmerdale - but was turned down.

Responding to backlash over their relationship, Channique said during a documentary titled Breaking Through with Zeze Millz , that fan reaction to her inter-racial relationship has been nothing short of ⁘bizarre.⁘ She said: ⁘The dating storyline is really fun. Calum Lill, who plays Joel, is wonderful. We're getting on like a house on fire . I saw some comments about us being an interracial couple. Almost like 'An interracial couple on the Street – God forbid.' I just thought it's so bizarre, because the relationship had nothing to do with race. It really is just about two people who have found each other, and are really in that loved-up, gross honeymoon phase.⁘

She added: ⁘It's really nice to be able to play that without… I think as a Black woman in the industry, I think we do put constraints on ourselves on how we're going to be presented, especially romantically. So whether we are the sexual interest or just the friend-zoned woman or whatever, I feel like we're often hypersexualised or under-sexualised as Black female characters. So, again, it's really nice to have this authentic relationship for Dee-Dee and Joel. It's just normal. I really, really do love that. I think it's so important to, obviously, present culture.⁘

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Emmerdale's Jacob Faces Worrying Manpreet Drama

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Emmerdale's Jacob Gallagher sparks concern from Manpreet Sharma after a worrying road incident next week.

His first day is explored in a special standalone episode on January 2, which sees Jacob dealing with situations that are close to home.

Driving through the Dales, Jacob feels terrible when he narrowly avoids hitting Manpreet in his car.

Jacob repeatedly apologises to Manpreet for his mistake, but she's more worried about his obvious signs of exhaustion.

With her own medical background to draw on, will Manpreet convince Jacob to get the help that he needs?

While Jacob has had a quieter few months in the show, Emmerdale producer Sophie Roper recently revealed that it was always the plan to explore this storyline for his character.

Eurostar Passengers 'Trapped For Hours' In Channel Tunnel After Train Breaks Down Between London...

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A Eurostar train was hit by a "technical problem" in the Channel Tunnel, causing a six-hour delay to passengers travelling from London to Paris.

The 06.01am train left on time and was supposed to arrive at Paris Gare du Nord at 9.20am local time - but travellers were told they would get to Paris with a delay of about six hours.

Eurostar said on its live departures and arrivals page: "Due to a technical problem, your train cannot complete its journey. It will now terminate at Calais Frethun where you'll be transferred onto another train to your destination."

Lisa Levine posted on X: "What a mess. We were trapped for hours and hours in a tunnel. No idea of when we were go get out. Now transferred to another train and literally missing our entire day in Paris.

Read more from Sky News:
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Get ready for 'wet and windy' New Year's Eve - with some snow
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Watch The Moment Gavin And Stacey Actress Laura Aikman's Family Found Out She Was In The...

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LAURA Aikman has revealed the exact moment her family found out she was in the Gavin and Stacey finale after keeping it a secret.

As she appeared on screen ahead of her planned wedding to Smithy, her family only then learned of her involvement in Gavin and Stacey : The Finale

The star also revealed to fans she signed a non disclosure agreement (NDA) as part of her return for the finale.

Last night viewers watched as James Corden's character Smithy realised he was making a big mistake and left Sonia at the altar for Nessa Jenkins .

In an emotional scene on a cargo ship, Smithy dropped to one knee and told his true love, who had proposed in a 2019 festive cliffhanger: "Five years ago on  Christmas  Day, you asked me a question and I didn't answer you.

"I know it's been messy and not perfect. But that's because we're messy and not perfect. But I love you, Nessa. I always have. Will you marry me?"

In a flash-forward the pair then got hitched before the entire cast celebrated at the wedding after party, closing the last ever episode.

THE Christmas Day ratings battle was won by Gavin and Stacey: The Finale - with 12.5million viewers and climbing.

It spelled the end of  Ruth Jones  and  James Corden 's series for ever - 17 years after it was first created.

Emmerdale's Ned Porteous Lifts Lid On Joe Tate's 'Sinister' Plans For Village After Dramatic Retur...

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"There are multiple sides to Joe and you will see him go to dark places. He is a control freak and he's afraid of showing his true feelings.

"I don't want to give the game away too much, but there could also be something else sinister going on.

"It's also safe to say I'm not too sure many of the villagers are that happy to see him back! But the truth of why Joe has returned will, in time, come out."

But the Covid pandemic hit the acting industry hard and he landed only a few small roles, playing Henry Granville's lover, Lord Wetherby, in Bridgerton and Luke in Disney Plus' Extraordinary.

Why EastEnders' Christmas Cindy Twist Simply Had To Happen

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Naturally, this meant that there was a lot of pressure attached to Christmas 2024 in Albert Square. When it was revealed that the big festive storyline would revolve around Cindy Beale, there was a bit of concern. While EastEnders has had a very strong year overall, Cindy and Junior's affair hasn't necessarily been one of the highlights for viewers.

There was a mystery to solve as the episode began , with Cindy unaware of who had stolen the recording of her conversation with David Wicks , that exposed not only her affair with Junior, but her true feelings for her ex-husband – and Junior's dad – George. But it wasn't long before she found out that it was Lauren, who arrived at the Beale/Knight family dinner with the intention of causing chaos.

Viewers were reminded that Lauren previously exposed Stacey and Max's affair at Christmas, in iconic scenes that unfolded 17 years ago. This affair reveal might not quite stack up in comparison, but it's a really nice parallel, and it makes sense for Lauren to want revenge, considering how Cindy has turned her family against her in recent weeks.

After an incredibly tense Christmas lunch, The Vic hosted festive celebrations for the community, and Ian opened another present addressed to him – the USB stick. He handed it to George, who played it on the speaker, and the entire pub heard Cindy and David's sordid chat.

During the first episode, Denise and Ravi kissed , Stacey failed to tell Martin how she felt about him, and a lonely Phil was reunited with Nigel. But all of this fell by the wayside after the shocking reveal in The Vic – and rightly so, as the major fallout required an episode all of its own.

While Cindy had hope that she could get Ian to forgive her once again, this time he decided to break the cycle, finally realising that she will never change. ⁘It's like I fell into a maze 30-something years ago,⁘ he said, ⁘and I've been struggling to get out of it. But now I can see the light, and all I've got to do is walk.⁘

50m In Boxing Day Sales To Avoid Price Rises Caused By Reeves's NI Hike

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Shoppers are set to spend an extra £50 million in this year's Boxing Day sales ahead of feared price rises caused by Rachel Reeves's National Insurance (NI) tax increase.

The public is forecast to shell out £3.73 billion in the post-Christmas sales on Thursday ahead of the tax raid, according to data firm GlobalData.

Industry experts said the country was in the mood for "bargain hunting" amid fears that the Chancellor's NI raid, which comes into force in April, will push up prices.

Boxing Day sales traditionally see hours-long queues outside some of the biggest high street shops.

Andrew Goodacre, chief executive of the British Independent Retailers' Association (BIRA), told The Telegraph that Ms Reeves's October Budget was making "bargain hunting" shoppers more "savvy".

"People are really bargain hunting," he said. "Customers are savvy and know that retailers have a huge increase in costs coming in April next year when the National Insurance (NI) rise comes in, with price rises inevitable.

The Boxing Day spending forecast, which was commissioned by discount website VoucherCodes, represents a £50 million increase on the £3.68 billion spent last year.

Strictly And Hollyoaks Favourite Will Mellor Shocks Fans As He Poses With A-list Actor And Brands...

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The soap favourite, 48, took to social media to share the snap after attending 40-year-old Katy 's recent ITV special, Night of a Lifetime.

The two men posed for a selfie, with Will later writing: ⁘Great to see Orlando Bloom at the Katy Perry gig. Nice bloke.⁘

Fans rushed to comment on the photo, with one saying: ⁘What a lovely photo of you Will and Orlando - I'm sure he too thought you were a really nice guy.⁘

Will shot to fame as Jambo Bolton in Hollyoaks in 1995 and has since appeared in EastEnders and Coronation Street.

Will played Gaz for 10 years before the series ended in 2011 - but he recently revealed he hopes to find a way to bring the show back .

⁘Susan Nickson, the original creator, wrote it, and the BBC said they didn't want to revisit it. So there is a massive hunger for it.

Inside EastEnders Cindy Beale Actress Michelle Collins' Stunning Countryside Home

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It's set to be an explosive festive period for EastEnders fans this Christmas, as an affair within Walford comes to light.

Cindy Beale actress Michelle Collins will take centre stage in the drama this year, as she teased fans what to expect as the bombshell news of her affair with Junior Knight is exposed in the BBC soap.

Join the Daily Record's WhatsApp community here and get the latest news sent straight to your messages.

Actress Michelle has hinted at how things will play out, noting fans will be left "on the edge of their seats". Teasing the huge scenes ahead, Michelle promised fans would not want to miss the big episodes.

EastEnders Fans Convinced Nigel Bates' Return Means HUGE Soap Legend Will Make Shock Comeback Afte...

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EASTENDERS fans are convinced Nigel Bates' return means one huge soap legend will make a shock comeback after years of rumours.

Paul Bradley , 69, has left BBC viewers stunned  as he reprises his legendary character for Christmas , leading many to believe that another show legend could be heading back to Albert Square.

For years, there's been speculation surrounding the return of Grant Mitchell, one of EastEnders ' most memorable and explosive characters.

The rumours gained further momentum last month when actor Ross Kemp , 60, was spotted leaving the Walford set in a car with dark-tinted windows.

Grant's exit from the soap back in 2006 left a significant void, with his turbulent relationship with brother Phil and his fiery temper making him a household name.

The two characters share a history , as Nigel's role in the show has always been tied to the Mitchell family, and his return has sparked wild theories about the possibility of Grant's re-emergence.

Social media has been buzzing with excitement since the news broke, with fans eager to see what the future holds for the Mitchell family.

Taking to X, formerly Twitter , one wrote: ⁘Actually this makes sense, cause grant and Nigel were best friends back in the day, so if phil needs saving who bettervtgen to bring back grant #eastenders.⁘

Another added: ⁘There's a mention of ⁘ Ghosts returning from the past⁘ during tomorrow's 2nd episode of #EastEnders.

When Are ITV Coronation Street And Emmerdale On This Week?

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ITV viewers will probably be hoping their favourite soaps won't be changing their usual schedule too much this week, during the Christmas period.

But as most know, it's not unusual for the likes of Coronation Street and Emmerdale to air at different times – especially when some of the biggest storylines of the year can take place (including Gail Platt's exit on Christmas Day for 2024).

If you're wondering when you can see the latest drama from the cobbles or in the Dales during the festive period (December 24 to December 27), luckily for you ITV has confirmed its soap schedule for the week. Let's take a look.

Earlier this month, ITV released a new trailer that revealed Gail will plan to leave the Weatherfield for France following a Christmas Day wedding.

The character, played by Helen Worth for 50 years prior to her departure this year, is set to marry Jesse Chadwick in the soap's festive special, but the broadcaster said she is unaware of secrets her offspring are keeping and "ticking time bombs" she is leaving behind.

He was replaced by John Thomson's character Jesse, with the 55-year-old actor claiming Helen was a "joy to work with".

You can keep up to date with Coronation Street and Emmerdale's TV schedules by following the soap's social media accounts on X, formerly Twitter.

Popular Clothing Chain To Close One Of Its 150 UK Stores In Days | Express.Co.Uk

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Headlines:

The chain, which has become an iconic British brand , operates largely in retail parks rather than on the high street .

However, it has failed to sustain business in one part of the UK as the out-of-town store prepares to close .

Situated along Stadium Way near Greyhound Retail Park, the Matalan store in Chester will close to all customers on January 4, 2025. A notice has been placed outside the building to confirm.

A spokesperson said: "Our Chester store will close on January 4 2025 as the landlord has opted to redevelop the site."

The Matalan spokesperson continued, "Our priority is to support our colleagues. We are working closely with all those affected and, where possible, offering them alternative positions."

The nearest Matalan for customers is 4.8 miles away in Cheshire Oaks, followed by Bromborough, which is 9.9 miles away.

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'Don't Let Assad's British Wife Return To UK', Ministers Urged, After She...

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After Assad was toppled by jihadi rebels earlier this month he fled to Russia, who backed him in the years-long civil war.

He added: ⁘She has been sanctioned by the UK Government for a reason - the Assad family were responsible for some of the worst atrocities in modern times.'

It's unclear if Ms Assad would be allowed into the UK, despite being a British citizen. Foreign Secretary David Lammy said she was ⁘not welcome here in the UK⁘ because of the sanctions against her.

Giovanni Pernice Wins Italian TV Dance Show After Leaving UK Amid Strictly Probe

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Former Strictly Come Dancing professional Giovanni Pernice has won the Italian dance show Ballando Con Le Stelle, months after leaving the UK in the wake of an investigation into allegations about his behaviour on the BBC show made by former dance partner Amanda Abbington .

Pernice, 34, and his celebrity partner, Italian actress and singer Bianca Guaccero, 43, were crowned winners of the 19th season of the hit reality programme on Saturday. Ballando Con Le Stelle is the Italian equivalent of Strictly Come Dancing and its US spin-off Dancing With The Stars.

The duo, who also recently confirmed they were a romantic couple, took to social media to celebrate their win. Palermo-born Pernice shared a clip of himself and Guaccero shortly after they were crowned the winners, alongside a caption that reads "la coppia vince".

On Saturday, Pernice posted a video to Instagram and said: "To all my dear friends in the UK that are supporting us all the way. We just want to say a massive thank you, because realistically, we couldn't do anything without you.

"And I tell you why, because, the way that the vote (works), it's all about likes on social media...We can totally see which part of the votes are coming from the UK and you are being unbelievably amazing." In October, addressing whether he will return to Strictly after his absence this year, Pernice told ITV show Lorraine: "Who knows, never say never."

Soap Fans Fume As Emmerdale And Coronation Street Get Pulled From ITV Christmas Schedule - Mirror...

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Soap fans are up in arms over ITV's decision to pull classic episodes of Emmerdale and Coronation Street from the schedules over Christmas .

Meanwhile, fans of the current storylines are on edge over plans for the 2024 Christmas episodes of the soaps - which are set to continue as planned. The change of scheduling has been flagged in a fan group on Reddit.

A poster commented: ⁘Just to let you know, there will be no Classic Emmerdale on ITV 3 from [December 23rd] until the 2nd January due to the Christmas holidays, so films will be taken over. Same goes for Classic Corrie.⁘

The revelation has angered and distressed fans, with one writing in reaction: ⁘I feel gutted they aren't showing classic coronation street over Christmas.⁘ While another added: ⁘Think I would sooner watch classic Emmerdale than crappy Xmas movies!⁘

ITV viewers will see the latest festive episodes air on ITV1 as expected - with Emmerdale lined up to play on Christmas Day at 6:30pm, followed by an hour-long episode of Corrie at 7pm. The Radio Times reports of the Christmas Day episode of Emmerdale: ⁘Emmerdale is going for a feelgood factor, as Belle is reunited with cute pooch Piper, reports of whose demise were greatly exaggerated by toxic Tom.⁘

Helen Worth, 73, who has played Gail for 50 years on the long-running soap and stunned fans earlier this year when she revealed she is bowing out. Announcing her resignation in June, she said: "This year felt like the perfect time to leave the show after celebrating 50 years in the most wonderful job on the most wonderful street in the world .

A Third Of All Small And Medium Sized Listed Companies 'At Risk Of Takeover' In 2025...

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Headlines:

The City is set to come under siege from a "major and sustained" flow of takeovers of London listed companies next year that could see up to a third of small and mid-cap AIM businesses vulnerable to bids, an investment bank warned today.

Peel Hunt predicted that the trend of London listed companies being "taken out" by private equity or foreign based corporate raiders will accelerate in the New Year "absent an unexpected change in circumstances."

The deluge of companies leaving the public arena is seen as a growing threat to London's status as a pre-eminent global financial centre. A total of 88 companies delisted or transferred their primary listing from London's main market this year, the highest since the financial crisis, with only 18 taking their place, according to the London Stock Exchange Group.

Michael Nicholson, head of advisory & M&A at Peel Hunt wrote in a report titled "Barbarians at the Gate": "We observe a wave of demand approaching the shores of the UK – with strategic and private equity buyers simultaneously active – and our coastal defences feel weaker than ever."

The report states that up to a third of small and mid-cap AIM businesses are vulnerable to acquisition due to a lack of liquidity, depressed valuations and "reduced ability to utilise the capital markets."

"In addition to unsolicited approaches from potential bidders, we hear increasingly from UK boards who are seeking to explore their strategic options and assess the feasibility of a sale process.

"The option to run a private sale process under revised Takeover Code rules has made this a more palatable option for many boards. For smaller companies, low share liquidity, a share price that barely responds to positive news (but overreacts to negative news), and a perceived structural dislocation of the share price from fundamental value all call into question the merits of being listed.

"The exodus of capital from UK equity funds and the reduction of tax incentives to invest in AIM only serve to whip up the headwinds facing the UK small and mid-cap segment."

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Coronation Street Star Stuns Fans As She Says 'I'm Glad ITV Have Got No Money' In Outburst - Mirro...

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Coronation Street star Sally Ann Matthews baffled fans this weekend, when she made an unexpected dig at broadcaster ITV on social media, while revealing her particular her dislike for one aspect of filming. The Jenny Connor actress, who first starred in the soap between 1986-1991, before returning full time in 2015, was taking part in a Q⁘A session on social media, when she addressed a question put to her by one curious viewer who asked: ⁘Where would you like to film on location?"

Sally then revealed that location shooting was now a rarity on the soap, as she responded: ⁘We don't do on location … right … ok so the whole 'Corrie doesn't do location any more.'

The unusual comment about her employer immediately caused concern among fans, who earlier this year had feared Sally's alter-ego Jenny may have been axed from the soap after she appeared to vanish from our screens for several weeks.

Loyal soap fans were quick to fear the worst earlier this year, when Sally took to social media to share her desire for "happier times" amid a shortage of storylines that required her presence on screen. Speaking to fans at the time, Sally said: "I chose to get on an airplane because I'm particularly quiet at work I've got like a million years off, so I chose to go on an aeroplane and I chose to remember happier times."

The actress then went on to reveal she had jetted off the Cyprus twice in the space of five weeks, and was intending to head abroad again to "do nowt." She then cryptically commented: "And at some point I might get a job and someone might employ me, potentially."

When asked directly if she had been axed by new showrunner Kate Brooks, Sally Ann just made an awkward sound and declined to comment any further.

"Have you left the street? Hmm. Hang on, next question," she told fans. "You're not going to be seeing Jenny for quite a long while. So that's that."

Most Coveted' Designer Perfumes Slashed By 25% Off | Express.Co.Uk

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Debenhams has revealed the top perfumes in the run-up to Christmas this year, including some designer names that have also been reduced in the retailer's current sale .

Christmas shoppers can still snap up the fragrances with delivery in time for December 25, but you'll have to be quick if you want to get them in time. The fragrance deals have free next-day delivery today, with code FREEDEL.

On December 18, Debenhams reported: ''British shoppers are "made up" ahead of Christmas, with sales of perfumes, make-up, and even glam vanity mirrors soaring, according to fresh data from Debenhams⁘ online marketplace.'

"From London to Liverpool, the festive fragrances we'll all be wearing this Christmas have been unveiled ⁘ and it⁘s a mix of signature scents, trending TikTok hits and beauty staples that are wooing shoppers.''

This perfume has sweet floral notes mixed with musky amber and balances sophistication and sensuality. There are over 5,400 five-star reviews on Debenhams, and it comes in 30ml, 50ml or 90ml sizes - the smallest size is running low on stock however so you'll have to be quick

YSL Black Opium Eau de Parfum is a bestselling perfume, with over 21,000 reviews, and as part of the Debenhams offer, it's been reduced from ⁘67 to ⁘50.25.

The floral fragrance is deep and sensual with a touch of black coffee, and it comes in a striking black and pink sparkly bottle which is ideal for gifting.

Holiday Destination Under An Hour From London Has 'UK's Only Desert' And Warmest...

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With 140 miles of beautiful coastline, rolling countryside dotted with nature reserves and endless eating and drinking options, Sussex offers all your holiday essentials. 

Add to that fun family days out and the brilliant beaches of both East and West Sussex and the hardest question on your upcoming £9.50 Holiday will be: where to visit first?

Foodies can whet their appetite with a meal at somewhere like The Fig in Rye, where MasterChef finalist Rosie Furnival creates dishes such as wild garlic arancini and tuna ceviche. 

You've also got your choice of chippies by the sea, with Paddy's Plaice in Selsey and The Pilot in Dungeness being recommended by Sun readers and local experts.

Dungeness used to be called Britain's only desert, but the  Met Office  stopped that officially in 2015, as deserts need little rainfall and large differences in day and night temperatures... and it has neither.

When it's time to burn it all off, take your pick of activities, including paddleboarding in a sheltered inland lake near Camber Sands with a company like Rye Water Sports .

A recent   Parkdean actually showed that Camber Sands   is the Uk beach to get warmest first in spring, hitting highs of 19C.

Active families could hit a cycle path together, with options that include the South Coast East route , which traces the seafront of Worthing and beyond.

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Christmas Stories Revealed In 28 Pictures

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Coming up on Hollyoaks , it's a busy Christmas for the McQueen family as Nana and Myra both return .

He spends time with his girlfriend Vicky, but will he find out the secret she's keeping over her pregnancy?

She has banned Mercedes from the party guest list, still feeling jealous over her connection with Freddie.

She appreciates Freddie's visit but is taken by surprise when he asks her to run away with him tomorrow.

Myra has discovered that Mercedes is planning to flee from the village for a romantic break with Freddie.

Marianne Jean-Baptiste: Hard Truths Star On Oscars Buzz For Playing 'Difficult' Woman

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Nearly three decades after being nominated for an Oscar, British actress Marianne Jean-Baptiste is back in the awards race thanks to a tremendous performance in director Mike Leigh's new drama, Hard Truths.

The 57-year-old jokes she feels ⁘older and wider⁘ (rather than wiser) this time around - a line she credits to co-star Michele Austin, who plays her on-screen sister.

But waistlines aside, her reunion with Leigh, whom she first worked with on 1996's Secrets ⁘ Lies, has prompted some of the most positive reviews of her career.

Hard Truths centres on Pansy, a woman who is constantly grumpy and miserable, and the impact her unspoken depression has on those around her.

It would be unfair to call the film a comeback for Jean-Baptiste, because she has been working tirelessly in the intervening years. But her second collaboration with Leigh has led to renewed attention on the film awards circuit.

⁘It's very interesting, because the first time, I was not aware at all that we were even in an Oscar race. You've got to remember, in 1996, there was still a huge independent film presence in the United States.

⁘At that time, we weren't that aware of the whole Oscar thing. It was something that happened over there,⁘ she says, gesturing far away, ⁘with really big stars. So it really was not on our radar.⁘

Having won the top prize at Cannes, it was only when Secrets ⁘ Lies played at the New York Film Festival four months later that Jean-Baptiste became more aware of the awards buzz. ⁘I hadn't even heard of the Golden Globes at that point,⁘ she recalls.

⁘We were just talking about the film, doing loads of interviews, we were just knackered from all the plane rides, so there was a naivety to it the first time.

Inside Emmerdale Star's Incredible Indian Holiday With Co-star Husband As She Stuns In Bikini...

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While many are shivering away in December's cold temperatures, Emmerdale star Fiona Wade has been keeping her fans up to date with her sun-soaked Indian getaway. The soap star, who left her role as Priya on Emmerdale for the final time in early 2023 , is currently on holiday with her co-star husband Simon Cotton.

In one photo, Fiona relaxed in a white bandeau bikini under a palm tree umbrella on a panoramic beach surrounded by golden sands while another showed her posing for a gorgeous sunset selfie with her fellow actor husband Simon Cotton .

She also captured a glimpse at her incredible bikini bod in a mirror selfie and then posed in front of an incredible beach sunset wearing a white bikini and matching sarong.

One video clip in the carousel showed Simon walking through a tropical setting surrounded by exotic greenery as they made their wake to the beach, with the sounds of animals clearly heard in the background.

The last photo was another stunning sunset photo that showed the couple enjoying a romantic cuddle on the beach as they watched the sun set beyond the waves.

S Surprisingly Low EastEnders Wage Despite 39 Years On Soap | TV & Radio...

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Adam Woodyatt , who has played Ian Beale since the show's very first episode in 1985, reportedly earns £260,000 a year.

That figure places him behind several of his co-stars, despite his status as the longest-running cast member.

For comparison, Steve McFadden - the iconic face of Phil Mitchell - earns around £300,000 annually.

Meanwhile June Brown, who plays Dot Branning, was once offered a £300,000 contract to remain on the show until March 2018.

The true top earner was Danny Dyer, who joined the cast in 2013 as Mick Carter. Dyer's salary reportedly towered above the rest at £400,000 per year before his exit from soap.

His pay packet has reportedly caused some tension among the cast, given his relatively shorter tenure on the show.

Adam and Danny were previously rumoured to have clashed on set, leading to Danny storming off, but both actors have denied this ever happened.

An EastEnders spokesperson told the Digital Spy : "Danny is always a consummate professional. Danny has never walked off set, nor has he ever lost his temper or been rude to anyone at work."

Ex Corrie Star Shayne Ward Jumps To ITV Soap's Defence Amid Backlash From Former Cast And Fan...

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SHAYNE Ward has defended Coronation Street after a series of outbursts from former cast and backlash from fans.

Away from singing, Shayne played the role of factory manager Aidan Connor on the Weatherfield cobbles.

Six years on, the Strictly star has jumped to the ITV soap's defence, after previous stars such as Vicky Enwistle , Sean Wilson and Charlie Lawson all blasted the soap.

Speaking exclusively to The Sun, the 40-year-old said: ⁘I mean, everyone has their opinion. I mean, I think you've got to realise with these shows, because that's been going for 50 odd years, you know, you have to move with the times as well.

The star continued: ⁘I hope in my heart that it will always be there. And that because it is such an iconic show that, you know, that the public will do their best to try and keep on the television. But just times are changing so much. You never quite know.

⁘So a lot of things are going online. And that's heartbreaking to see. What can you do? But I just I have a feeling with Corrie, it will always be there, at least in my heart.⁘

Earlier this month Vicky Enwistle - who played Janice Battersby - called likened the soap to a 'cult' in a now-deleted rant.

Cadbury Fans Are Going Wild For Giant 1kg Bags Of Brits' Favourite Chocs Scanning For Just £1...

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CADBURY fans are going wild for a giant bag of Britain's favourite chocolates that are now available in giant 1kg bags.

Chocolate lovers have reacted to photos shared online showing the huge bag scanning on shelves of a supermarket for £14.

A Facebook post on Monday from Newsfoodsuk shared the news and shoppers couldn't be more excited by the deal.

Due to the time of year, not many retailers are currently stocking Mini Eggs, but the current places to get them are charging more.

The chocolatiers are charging £15 for a 1kg bag, making B⁘M the cheapest place for Brits to celebrate a bit of Easter at Christmas .

We all love a bit of chocolate from now and then, but you don't have to break the bank buying your favourite bar.

Go own brand - if you're not too fussed about flavour and just want to supplant your chocolate cravings, you'll save by going for the supermarket's own brand bars.

Kellie Bright Swears As She Avoids Great Sewing Bee Disaster | TV & Radio | Showbiz & TV...

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EastEnders actress Kellie Bright swore as she called for help on The Great British Sewing Bee. The soap star was joined by Steps' Ian "H" Watkins, comedian Fatiha El-Ghorri and reality TV personality Charlotte Crosby on the Celebrity Christmas Special of The Great British Sewing Bee on Thursday evening (December 19).

"It's a very family, festive piece, this", the EastEnders star commented as she began to iron on letters. However, as she lifted the hot iron, she realised only the J had been imprinted onto the fabric, with the O falling off and the Y stuck to her iron.

Daily Record reports Kellie laughed and swore as she touched the burning hot iron, shouting "Help me, help help". Steps' Ian "H" Watkins watched on in surprise and amusement.

Despite the incident, her advent calendar wasn't ruined and left Patrick and Esme impressed with the stitch work, even patterns and pockets and decorations.

Patrick remarked: "Kellie - the robin on this green holly leaf just leaks out. It's almost like a soft of explosion in a way. It's a bit sort of Batman kapow".

During the inspection of Kellie's handiwork, Esme Young spotted a minuscule imperfection in the material, remarking, "I love how this is your family but oh look - a hole".

Patrick Grant couldn't resist chiming in with a playful accusation: "This is what she does - she puts her little finger in. I think she actually creates them."

Patrick commented the calendar was "a thing of festive joy apart from the tiny hole" and the calendar finished second overall. Kellie went on to win the Christmas special with a Last Christmas inspired dress.

Emmerdale Fans Left Sobbing As Soap Breaks Fourth Wall In Harrowing Tom Scenes | TV & Radio...

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Emmerdale fans were left reaching for the tissues last night as the show delivered a groundbreaking moment that pierced the fourth wall.

In a much-anticipated scene from the ITV favourite, justice descended upon villain Tom King who was handed a prison sentence. The notorious character had been facing justice for the coercive control and torment he inflicted on Belle Dingle for months.

Viewers were profoundly moved by the dramatic scenes, as one fan expressed on social media: "Superb writing and acting tonight! Best episode of the year! # Emmerdale ," following the episode's broadcast. Another praised the intense moment with a tweet: "Eye contact at the cameras ! Absolutely brilliant @ emmerdale .", reports the Mirror .

A third was impressed by the show's bold move: "Got to hand it to # Emmerdale , breaking the fourth wall at the end there was powerful stuff."

Yet another viewer was left in awe, commenting: "What a f**king episode. Belle looking directly into the camera? Dear god I'm a mess # emmerdale ."

BBC EastEnders' 'Dramatic' Christmas Episode Will Leave Fans 'On Edge Of Their Seats' - Mirror...

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Now, Cindy Beale actress Michelle Collins, who takes centre stage in the dramatic set of episodes, has teased what fans can expect. Cindy's fling with Junior Knight is set to come out to the Beales and the Knights in classic EastEnders fashion.

As the two families sit down for their Christmas dinner , things take an explosive turn when Cindy's affair confession is broadcast to the entire pub. What follows is drama and chaos as the two families are left reeling, and Ian Beale discovers his wife's betrayal.

Soon other secrets come to light and accusations are flying, and now actress Michelle as promised fans will be left ⁘on the edge of their seats⁘. Teasing the huge scenes ahead after a recent trailer offered a glimpse of the big scenes, Michelle promised fans would not want to miss the big episodes this Christmas Day and beyond.

She spilled: ⁘You'll certainly be on the edge of your seats, but I would say it's dramatic, powerful and moving. A classic EastEnders.⁘ She also joked she'd be resting this festive period to recover from her character's ⁘big year⁘.

On filming the tense scenes as her lies unravel, Michelle said it was fun but ⁘a whirlwind⁘. She said: ⁘Why do people always like playing the villains in panto? Because sometimes they're a bit more fun [laughs]. As an actor playing Cindy, I go through a whirlwind of emotions, so you have to enjoy it a bit and have some fun in between. She is always a challenge.⁘

British Shoppers Turn To Socially Conscious, Story-Driven Retail

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Global fashion powerhouses have quickly tapped into this trend. Tommy Hilfiger saw customer interest rise by 2,250%, and Ralph Lauren experienced a 2,035% increase in searches.

A surge of interest in socially conscious shopping and tradition-driven products is redefining British consumer habits, according to comprehensive data from livestream buying platform Whatnot. The findings reveal a significant cultural shift, with buyers increasingly drawn to inclusivity, storytelling, and heritage in their purchases. The most striking trend is the growing appeal of inclusive and vintage fashion . Searches for vintage-inspired styles skyrocketed by 3,100%, while plus-size clothing witnessed a staggering 7,350% spike in interest. These numbers highlight a clear demand for fashion that celebrates diversity and evokes nostalgia.

This evolving landscape signifies a broader movement toward narrative-driven consumption. For today⁘s British shoppers, products are more than mere commodities⁘they represent identity, inclusivity, and community. The livestream retail ecosystem has become a hub for cultural connection, where consumers seek more than transactions; they crave stories and shared experiences. ⁘ Retail is no longer just about buying and selling; it⁘s about creating cultural moments,⁘ a spokesperson for Whatnot stated. ⁘Innovation and nostalgia now go hand in hand as consumers look for products that align with their values and personal stories.⁘

As this dynamic marketplace evolves, it offers businesses a golden opportunity to engage with a new generation of socially conscious, experience-focused buyers. From fashion to footwear, British consumers are championing a retail revolution where tradition, inclusivity, and storytelling reign supreme.

Hollyoaks And Corrie Star Steph Davis Shows Off Glam New Look As She Launches Unexpected New Caree...

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FORMER Hollyoaks and Corrie legend Steph Davis unveiled a glamorous new look as she launched an exciting new career in the beauty world.

But it's not just her stunning transformation turning heads—she's also launching her own eyelash brand using faux mink hair.

She teased fans with a snap of her new products, writing: "My Beauty Brand SINCERE ♥️ @sincereofficialuk

"Make sure to follow @sincereofficialuk ready for everything to go live and see what I've created for you all.

The actress, known for her dramatic storylines on Hollyoaks as Sinead O'Connor , has been keeping busy during her pregnancy, with this new venture marking a fresh chapter in her career.

Steph, who previously appeared on Celebrity Big Brother, is clearly thriving as she prepares for the arrival of her little one while balancing her beauty empire dreams.

Bond Girl' Trashes Idea Of Female James Bond: ‘Like Mary Poppins Being Played By A...

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British actress Gemma Arterton doesn't agree with the idea of a gender-swapped James Bond, thinking moviegoers would find it "outrageous."

In a recent interview with UK outlet, The Times , Arterton pointed out that James Bond being portrayed as a woman is absurd on its face.

"Isn't a female James Bond like Mary Poppins being played by a man?" she wondered. "They talk about it, but I think people would find it too outrageous."

Arterton played British Secret Service agent Strawberry Fields in 2008 Bond film "Quantum of Solace," the second in the series to star Daniel Craig. She insisted that Hollywood should respect the legacy of the character and not opt for the change.

Canada Post Strike Impacted Small Business Deliveries

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Small business owners that rely on Canada Post to serve customers are hoping for a Santa miracle this holiday season. It comes as service resumes at the crown corporation after a month-long strike.

"This is the longest period that we've ever had any kind of disruption like this that's caused this much chaos in our holiday, for sure," said Ryan Schroeyens, who's known as the head guru at Music City, London Guitar Shoppe in east London.

The family-owned business, now in its second generation, has been involved with e-commerce for more than a decade. It sells audio gear, musical instruments and more, both online and from its showroom on Charterhouse Crescent. But now they find themselves in catch-up mode, getting merchandise packed and parceled and out the door as quickly as they can.

"We service nationwide, right, we're over 50,000 customers a month. And so, we have customers that live in all kinds of rural areas where a P.O. box is the only way they can get packages for Christmas," explained Schroeyens.

He said they also use private couriers. However, they too are backed-up, overwhelmed because of the Canada Post strike.

An employee gets a parcel ready for shipping at Music City, seen on Dec. 17, 2024. (Bryan Bicknell/CTV News London)

"Certain packages will sit for weeks and there's no recourse. Even some of the biggest suppliers we deal with have shipments inbound to us that have been sitting for over a week," he said.

According to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, as many as three quarters of small businesses still use Canada Post for some services. In all, small business owners lost $1.6 billion because of the strike, said CFIB VP of Legislative Affairs for Ontario Ryan Mallough.

Boost For Retailers As UK Shoppers Set To Spend More Than £6bn On Last-minute Christmas Gifts...

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UK consumers are set to spend £6.52billion this week as they embark on last-minute Christmas shopping trips.

New data has shown high street shoppers to spend £3.81bn with online shopping to reach £2.72bn. An estimated 55 million shoppers will hit the high streets to stock up on Christmas gifts, while will 31.7m shop online.

The data, from Vouchercodes has predicted that spend up until Friday will account for 49% of all spending in the 10 days building up to Christmas.

Friday will also be the busiest day on the roads since the AA began recording data in 2010. It said 23.7 million drivers are planning a trip on Friday, almost 4 million more than they did during the previous record of 19m making journeys on Friday December 21 2018.

Hollyoaks' Darren Makes Devastating Confession After Return

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Hollyoaks ' Darren Osborne has made a devastating confession following his return to the village .

Darren went missing at the end of October, leaving his family increasingly worried as several leads didn't help locate him.

Last week, the Osbornes appeared on live TV to appeal for information on Darren's whereabouts, which ended with a panicked Nancy fainting on screen.

After six weeks, it was then revealed that Darren was secretly staying with Charlie Dean , who urged his dad to ⁘go home⁘.

Meanwhile, an anxious Robbie waited outside with flowers for Nancy, and was shocked to see Darren turn up.

⁘Hey bro, did you miss me?⁘ Darren asked, before Robbie swiftly handed him the bouquet and punched him.