free webpage hit counter

admin

Gogglebox star slams ‘exploitative’ show saying she LIED to quit it and made no money

FORMER Gogglebox star Rev Kate Bottley has slammed the “exploitative” show, saying she LIED to quit it and made no money.

Kate, 50, who now presents on BBC Radio 2, revealed she gave a fake excuse to step away from the hit Channel 4 series – but had no intention of ever coming back.

Reverend Kate Bottley in a pink vintage dress.
Instagram
Former Gogglebox star Rev Kate Bottley has slammed the “exploitative” show, saying she LIED to quit it and made no money[/caption]

The Church of England vicar, who appeared on Gogglebox with her husband Graham for five series until 2016, said signing up for the show ended up damaging her family’s home life.

She alleged it left her children isolated, meal times disrupted, and their modest fee swallowed up by hidden costs.

Speaking on the Walking the Dog podcast, Kate said: “I wish I’d known how much it took over our life for two and a half years. It’s reality TV, it’s by its nature consensual exploitation.”

The journalist said she originally agreed to take part in a bid to change how people of faith were portrayed on screen – but soon found the filming schedule was “quite intrusive”.

Her son Arthur, who she described as on the “autistic spectrum”, and daughter Ruby, then still in school, would hide away in their rooms twice a week while a large production crew set up in the family home.

She continued: “My kids spent two-and-a-half years sat in their bedrooms every Tuesday and Thursday night or whatever nights they came to film.

“My kids didn’t have friends round for a lot [of the time], didn’t have help with their homework. Things like that.”

Meal times also took a hit, with Kate adding: “I’m married to a man who won’t eat takeaways, and I don’t want to be filmed eating on camera so I was like, ‘No, I’ll cook.’ There were casseroles and chillis.”

She added: “They paid, but I cooked two nights a week for the crew… all the money we got from it went on the electricity, the internet connection that they were using, and the food and being hospitable to six people in my home two nights a week.

“It’s a vicarage as well, I should be hospitable. We should be sharing our home to people, and eating food together.

“It was a good two and a half years but we couldn’t have done any more. It got to the point where we were just a bit overwhelmed.”

Kate said she was first approached to take part after a 2013 video of her dancing down the aisle to Kool & the Gang’s Celebration at a wedding she officiated went viral.

It clocked more than eight million views on YouTube and caught the attention of Channel 4, who signed her and Graham up the following year.

The pair were a hit with audiences, but Kate’s confident personality drew online criticism from some viewers.

She recalled: “We used to get that whole ‘Oh, you never let your husband speak.’ It was like, ‘Wow.’ Be careful there, your misogyny’s showing.

“Of course if you’re a confident woman married to a quieter man he must be henpecked, and he must be bossed about – it’s not that he’s just naturally quieter. In any relationship there’s someone that is more outgoing.”

She said that while she and Graham were paid, the fee was small – and worse, being tied into the show stopped her from taking up better-paid offers elsewhere.

She said: “As well as finding the modest amount of money we were paid disappearing. There was stuff coming in that I wanted to have a go at that I just wasn’t able contractually to do.”

Offers from major entertainment shows like Would I Lie To You? were off the table due to the show’s strict exclusivity clause.

Kate said: “There’s quite tight exclusivity, and rightly so. Because if you’re filming ordinary people sat on their sofa watching TV you can’t then have those people on the TV. It sort of breaks the fourth wall too much.”

Eventually, the family decided to walk away from Gogglebox, but not before offering viewers a cover story.

She said: “It so happened that it came around the time that Ruby was doing her GCSEs so the excuse we gave was, ‘We’re going to take some time away while she does her exams.’ But we were just a bit overwhelmed.”

Despite her experience, Kate credits the show with boosting her public profile.

Since quitting, she’s become a regular on Songs of Praise and built a successful career in radio and television, while husband Graham returned to teaching music.

Speaking of her decision to go on Gogglebox, Kate previously told The Sun: “We wanted to show people that just because we have a faith and are Christians, it doesn’t mean we are four-headed.

Kate met her husband Graham at school when both were aged 13 years old but didn’t begin dating until they were 18.

Since her rise to fame. she has put her culinary skills under the microscope on Celebrity MasterChef.

She has also presented the BBC’s Songs of Praise.

A couple and their dog sit on a couch in their living room.
Handout
Kate appeared on Gogglebox with her husband Graham for five series until 2016[/caption]
Rev. Kate Bottley in a MasterChef apron.
BBC
Since her rise to fame. she has put her culinary skills under the microscope on Celebrity MasterChef[/caption]
Richie Anderson, Jo Whiley, and Reverend Kate Bottley promoting their "Dare 2 Tri" challenge for Sport Relief.
PA
Kate now presents on BBC Radio 2[/caption]

Read More »

Inside Dan Sheehan’s adorable life outside of rugby with hockey star girlfriend Katherine and his supportive family

DAN SHEEHAN has become reliable source of inspiration for Ireland and Leinster in the biggest moments.

And his sensational performances will lead to him captaining the Lions against the Western Force on Saturday.

Dan Sheehan's British & Irish Lions squad announcement.
Dan Sheehan will captain the Lions against Western Force
Dan Sheehan of Ireland playing rugby.
He has became a crucial cog for Ireland and Leinster
Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile
Dan Sheehan and a woman in a pink dress at an event.
Dan Sheehan is in a relationship with Katherine Egan
Instagram/dansheehan09
Dan Sheehan with his family at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome.
His parents names are Barry and Sinead
Instagram/dansheehan09
Family photo at Aviva Stadium during a Six Nations rugby match.
He is one of four kids, alongside his brother Bobby, and sisters Susie and Emma
Instagram/dansheehan09

He is one of eight Ireland players starting in Perth – alongside – Mack Hansen, Garry Ringrose, James Lowe, Tadhg Furlong, Joe McCarthy, Tadhg Beirne, Josh van der Flier – while Ronan Kelleher, Andrew Porter, and Jack Conan are on the bench.

The 26-year-old Leinster hooker has 32 international caps to his name since Andy Farrell gave him his debut against Japan in 2021.

In the time since, he has scored 15 tries in the Green jersey, while also running in 45 tries for Leinster since making his first team debut in 2020.

The Dubliner’s meteoric rise has been watched closely by his family and loved ones and here SunSport takes a look at the people behind the man.

Where is Dan Sheehan from and how old is he?

Dan Sheehan is originally from Dublin, and was born on September 17, 1998, making him 26 years of age.

Sheehan lived in Romania for three years and upon returning to Ireland attended Clongowes Wood College.

He went on to represent Lansdowne FC and Dublin University in the AIL, before making his senior Leinster debut against Zebre in October 2020.

Who is in his family?

Dan is one of four kids in his family, alongside brother Bobby and sisters Emma and Susie.

His parents names are Sinead and Barry, the latter having instilled the desire to play rugby in his superstar son.

Barry Sheehan played for UCD in the 1980s and 1990s, while further back, his grandfather Denis played for Leinster.

It took some time for his family to be able to share in Dan’s breakthrough in the Ireland team.

While he made his debut at the Aviva Stadium in November 2021, it was not until he made his Six Nations bow against Wales in February 2022 that his family was able to be at the game.

Who is his girlfriend Katherine?

Dan Sheehan has been in a relationship with Katherine for a number of years, with photos on social media tracing their bond back as early as 2017.

While the former has made his name in rugby, the latter has sporting pedigree in her own right as a hockey player with UCD, where she also studies Medicine.

Ever supportive of one another, they attended the 2022 Leinster Rugby Awards Ball where Dan won LAYA Healthcare Men’s Young Player of the Year.

Katherine was also in attendance at the Stade Velodrome to watch her partner help Ireland to victory over France.

A hockey player receiving a medal.
Katherine Egan is a hockey player with UCD
Dan Sheehan and Katherine Egan at the Leinster Rugby Awards Ball.
Dan Sheehan and Katherine Egan at the 2022 Leinster Rugby Awards Ball
Sportsfile
Dan Sheehan of Ireland celebrating with Katherine Egan after a rugby match.
Dan Sheehan of Ireland celebrates with his partner Katherine Egan after the 2025 Guinness Six Nations Rugby Championship match against Scotland
David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile
Couple taking a selfie in an elevator.
Instagram/dansheehan09
Dan Sheehan and Katherine during a visit to Ballynahinch Castle Hotel[/caption]

Read More »

Paul Smith Black Friday 2025: what to expect this November

PAUL Smith’s Black Friday deals are your golden ticket to bag bold suits, stylish winter coats and eye-catching prints without the eye-watering price tags.

The iconic British brand, famous for its signature stripes and razor-sharp tailoring, is a fashion lover’s dream, offering everything from statement pieces to wardrobe essentials across both men’s and women’s wear.

a paul smith advertisement with a black friday sale tag
We’re hoping for designer discounts in the Paul Smith Black Friday sale this year

Shop Paul Smith

While the fashion giant is keeping its cards close to its chest about this year’s deals, we’re predicting some serious price drops, just like in previous years.

Will Paul Smith join the sales bonanza? And could they surprise us with early deals ahead of the big day? That’s what every savvy shopper wants to know!

We’ll be keeping a close eye on all the latest news about Paul Smith’s Black Friday bargains. After all, there’s nothing better than snagging designer gear at prices that won’t make your credit card weep.

While the exact discounts are still under wraps, we’re expecting some massive savings across the British label’s ultra-stylish range once again this November.

From when the sales kick off to which pieces are worth grabbing, here’s everything you need to know about getting your hands on Paul Smith’s most coveted styles this Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Shop Paul Smith

When is Black Friday 2025?

When is Black Friday 2025? Mark your calendars – the big day falls on Friday, November 28.

The shopping bonanza typically follows Thanksgiving in the US, which is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November.

Usually, Black Friday falls on the fourth Friday of November. However, because the month starts on a Saturday in 2025, Thanksgiving is pushed to November 27, making Black Friday the fourth Friday this time around.

Savvy shoppers will want to start saving now – the big day will be here before you know it!

Remember to shop smart and compare prices across different stores. Paul Smith gear can often be nabbed at ASOS, Flannels, Coggles and House of Fraser – all of which typically slash prices during Black Friday.

Our top tip? Check all these retailers before hitting the checkout button to ensure you’re getting the absolute best deal possible.

Of course, there’s more to Black Friday than just bagging bargains – but who doesn’t love designer threads at high street prices?

Is Paul Smith taking part in Black Friday this year?

The luxury British brand is keeping its plans for Black Friday 2025 close to its chest.

But based on previous years, bargain-hunting fashionistas can almost certainly look forward to snagging some designer Paul Smith deals during November’s shopping extravaganza.

While no official announcement has dropped yet, savvy shoppers should bookmark the Paul Smith website now and sign up for their newsletter to be first in line when those stylish discounts land.

Don’t forget to check other retailers too! ASOS, Flannels, Coggles and House of Fraser all stock Paul Smith gear and typically slash prices during Black Friday – giving you even more chances to bag signature stripes and luxury threads for less.

We’ll be updating this page with all the hottest Paul Smith deals and discounts as soon as they drop, so keep checking back if you’re eyeing up something special.

What to expect from Paul Smith’s Black Friday sale 2025

Last year, the luxury British brand slashed prices by a massive 30% off selected products on its official website.

In previous years, fashion enthusiasts could purchase gorgeous gear using an exclusive discount code that applied to everything – men’s wear, women’s wear, kids’ wear, homeware, and all those must-have accessories.

While the discounts might not be as dramatic as some high street retailers – let’s face it, Paul Smith is proper posh – even a 30% saving on designer threads is nothing to sniff at!

Savvy shoppers should hit the Black Friday sales early rather than waiting for Cyber Monday – the best bits always get snapped up quickly, and nobody wants to miss out on those iconic stripes.

We’ll be updating this guide with all the latest bargains as soon as they drop, so keep your eyes peeled if you’re after some designer gear that won’t cost a fortune this November.

paul-smith-black-friday
We’re anticipating some great discounts in the Paul Smith sale this year
Paul Smith

Shop Paul Smith


What was in Paul Smith’s sale last year?

Fashion fans were treated to some MASSIVE discounts in the 2023 and 2024 Paul Smith Black Friday bonanza.

The official Paul Smith website slashed prices with a whopping 30% off selected items across the board. Shoppers could bag serious bargains using the special code ‘BLACKFRIDAY’ at checkout, which unlocked discounts on everything from sharp suits to signature striped accessories.

Smith goodies were also available at major retailers, including ASOS, Flannels, Coggles, and House of Fraser, with many offering exclusive Black Friday deals on the British designer’s collection.

When is Cyber Monday 2025, and is Paul Smith taking part?

If you’re already wondering: when is Cyber Monday 2025? It falls on Monday, December 1 – as always, it’s the first Monday right after Black Friday.

The luxury British brand hasn’t officially confirmed whether it’ll be joining the Cyber Monday action yet, but if Paul Smith offers Black Friday deals, you can bet they’ll still be offering discounts when Monday rolls around.

As mentioned earlier, Black Friday (November 28) is typically when brands launch their biggest discounts, which continue across the weekend until midnight on Cyber Monday.

If you spot that signature striped scarf or sharp suit with a decent discount on Black Friday, don’t hang about hoping for bigger savings on Cyber Monday – the best bits always get snapped up fast!

Remember that Paul Smith gear is also stocked at ASOS, Flannels, Coggles, and House of Fraser – all worth checking for exclusive deals that might offer better prices than the official site.

Watch this space for all the latest Cyber Monday deal updates from Paul Smith right here in our guide.

How much does Paul Smith’s shipping cost?

Paul Smith offers totally free express delivery, as well as free click and collect options, when you buy directly from their website.

Want your designer goodies to arrive on a specific day? No problem! You can choose the £10 ‘Select Any Day’ delivery option for complete flexibility.

If you’re in a rush to get your hands on those iconic striped accessories, the £12 ‘Select Any Morning’ delivery guarantees your parcel will arrive before noon any day of the week – perfect for impatient fashion lovers!

Just a heads up – the Paul Smith website does warn: “During sale and busy periods, some services will not be available in the checkout and orders will be shipped in minimal packaging.”

They also add: “If you’ve shopped in one of our sales, please allow an additional three working days for despatch.” So don’t panic if your Black Friday bargains take a little longer to arrive!

Remember, if you’re purchasing Paul Smith items from other stockists, such as ASOS or House of Fraser, the delivery options and costs may differ – always check before you check out!

Does Paul Smith offer any other discounts?

Bad news for bargain hunters – luxury brand Paul Smith doesn’t offer any student discounts.

But there are still ways to save on those designer delights! The British fashion house has a handy price match policy that works on items sold cheaper by official stockists.

The fancy fashion brand states: “The price match guarantee only applies to full-price items inclusive of sales tax and includes seasonal reductions and/or any special promotions.

“Products must be the exact style, material, colour, size and be available to purchase on both websites. Our online prices include VAT but exclude delivery charges and any other services.”

Want to know exactly how it works? You can read the full details of the Paul Smith price match policy on their website.

NEW shoppers can also bag 10% off their first order by signing up to the Paul Smith newsletter – perfect for getting a cheeky discount on that designer purchase you’ve been eyeing up!


Shop Paul Smith


Where to shop for Paul Smith Black Friday 2025 deals?

From the Paul Smith website to leading fashion e-tailers, there are plenty of places to search for potential Paul Smith Black Friday deals.

Below is a rundown of some of the most popular high street and online retailers to browse when the sales start.

More Luxury Fashion Deals

Are Paul Smith clothes true to size?

Yes, Paul Smith’s clothes are generally true to size.

The brand offers an extensive suit fit guide and jeans fit guide online to help shoppers, along with shoe fit advice.

You can also make use of the brand’s in-store personal shopping services too to ensure you find the perfect fit.

Though if you are dissatisfied you can return your order.

What is PS by Paul Smith?

PS is a second Paul Smith collection, including apparel, denim, footwear and accessories for both men and women, which has a more youthful feel.

This second line still uses the confident bold colours, unique prints and sharp tailoring you’d expect from Paul Smith.

PS Paul Smith is also stocked on ASOS, as well as other retailers, and considered a slightly more affordable range from the luxury brand.


More Amazing Black Friday Deals

  • Best Black Friday deals
  • Amazon Black Friday
  • Boots Black Friday
  • Simba Black Friday
  • M&S Black Friday

Read More »

Every phone in UK will be pinged with ‘emergency alert’ that triggers loud siren for 10 seconds this year

EVERY phone in the UK will be pinged with an ‘emergency alert’ that triggers a loud siren for 10 seconds this year.

The alarm is a test of the Governments’ emergency alert system, which first launched in 2023 and is used to alert Brits of nearby emergencies.

Smartphone displaying a UK government emergency alert test message.
Every phone in the UK will be pinged with an ‘emergency alert’ that triggers a loud siren for 10 seconds this year

The 2023 alert said: ”Severe Alert. This is a test of Emergency Alerts, a new UK government service that will warn you if there’s a life-threatening emergency nearby.

”In a real emergency, follow the instructions in the alert to keep yourself and others safe.

“Visit gov.uk/alerts for more information. This is a test. You do not need to take any action.”

The jolting alarm shocked some Brits, with one noting: “The emergency alert system just scared the f*** out of me.”

A second added: “That alert was a bit loud.”

While another joked: “It was so dalek like.”

The announcement about this year’s test alert comes as the government stressed the importance of Brits being prepared for any emergency – weather, war, and more.

It also comes after the world has been watching the Middle East amid fears of a wider conflict igniting after tensions in Iran.

The Emergency Alert System (EAS) is designed to warn the public if there is a danger to life nearby.

After this year’s alert (the exact date will be announced in the future), the system will be tested once every two years.

Earlier this year, the European Union went as far as warning the nearly 450,000,000 people who live within its borders to stockpile emergency supplies to last 72 hours in case of war or natural disaster.

The advice, issued to nearly half a billion people across 27 countries, includes telling people to buy bottled water, energy bars, a torch, and waterproof pouches for IDs.

And EU households could get a handbook to help them prepare for ‘various crises, from potential conflict to climate disasters, pandemics and cyber threats’ reports The Metro.

The EU’s announcement came after France decided to issue 20-page survival manuals.

With measures on how the French can protect themselves from armed conflict, natural disasters, industrial accidents and nuclear leaks.

Back in 2923, the Goverment’s first test alert failed to sound on some phones in nationwide test – here’s why.

There’s also been a lot of speculation and misinformation about what the message does and how it does it.

Experts from Full Fact have debunked some of the biggest falsehoods about it.

A Cabinet Office spokesperson said: “This system is not designed to cause panic, but to ensure people are aware of imminent threats and can act quickly.

“This test is part of building national resilience and saving lives in future crises.”

Read More »

6/45 LOTTO RESULT Today, Friday, June 27, 2025

6/45 LOTTO RESULT June 27, 2025 – Here is the draw of 6/45 Mega Lotto Result of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO). 6/45 Mega Lotto Winning Numbers June 27, 2025, Friday Jackpot Prize See UPDATED results for the following draws: LOTTO RESULT Today, Thursday, June 26, 2025 (updated 9PM) EZ2 RESULT Today, Thursday, June 26, ... Read more

The post 6/45 LOTTO RESULT Today, Friday, June 27, 2025 appeared first on PhilNews.

Read More »

Anak-Anak Mafia Episode 6 Tonton Drama Video

Kepala Bergetar, Anak-Anak Mafia Episode 6 Tonton Drama. Tonton Online Cerekarama Terkini TV3 Malay Drama Anak-Anak Mafia Episode 6 myflm4u Senarai HD Video. Dfm2u Tonton Anak-Anak Mafia Drama Full Episod 6 Today Video. Download Kbergetar Terbaru Drama Anak-Anak Mafia Full Ep 6 Terkini Melayu High Quality myinfotaip Video. Tonton Anak-Anak Mafia Episode 6 Drama Video

The post Anak-Anak Mafia Episode 6 Tonton Drama Video appeared first on Kepala Bergetar.

Read More »

SWERTRES RESULT Today, Friday, June 27, 2025

SWERTRES RESULT June 27, 2025 – Here is the result of Suertres lotto draw by Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO). Updates of the Swertres result is refreshed every 2PM, 5PM and 9PM. Draw Winning Numbers 2:00 PM 5:00 PM 9:00 PM The above results are the official winning number for the June 27, 2025 (Friday) ... Read more

The post SWERTRES RESULT Today, Friday, June 27, 2025 appeared first on PhilNews.

Read More »

4D LOTTO RESULT Today, Friday, June 27, 2025

4D LOTTO RESULT June 27, 2025 – Here is the draw of 4D Lotto Result of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO). 4D Lotto Winning Numbers June 27, 2025, Friday Jackpot Prize See UPDATED results for the following draws: LOTTO RESULT Today, Thursday, June 26, 2025 (updated 9PM) EZ2 RESULT Today, Thursday, June 26, 2025 ... Read more

The post 4D LOTTO RESULT Today, Friday, June 27, 2025 appeared first on PhilNews.

Read More »

Call The Midwife fans convinced show will end in heartbreaking death as they work out final storyline

CALL The Midwife fans have been left convinced that the show will end in a tragic death after news the main series could come to an end.

The popular BBC family drama will come to a close following the conclusion of the 15th series which is currently being filmed and is due to air next year.

Call the Midwife nurses riding bicycles.
BBC
Call the Midwife fans have been speculating on how the show may end amid reports of its axing[/caption]
Two nurses in uniform holding a baby doll.
BBC
The popular programme has ran for 15 series[/caption]
Sister Monica Joan and a young girl sharing tea and sandwiches.
BBC
Could Sister Monica Joan die at the end of the show?[/caption]

It has left fans speculating at to how the programme might reach its conclusion and some have predicted a tragic death could be on the cards for one of its most popular characters.

One character who looks set to meet her match during the show’s finale is Sister Monica Joan.

Whilst not confirmed, fans have begun to cast suspicion that she could fall victim to a death in the programme’s final episode.

The character, played by actress Judy Parfitt, has been a part of the show since the very first series and has been one of the drama’s fan-favourite characters.

Taking to Reddit, it led one fan to quip that they could kill off their longest-serving character for shock value.

Speculating what is to come: “Something tells me that something is going to happen to Sister Monica Joan.

“I think it’s going to be a two part episode and the series will end with implications for the upcoming film… and maybe something for the prequel series.”

Another added: “Maybe so. I’ve honestly been waiting for Sister Monica Joan to leave because she was a bit of a nuisance at times and very openly disobedient and often willful.

“The actress is wonderful but the character has been shown less and less the past couple of years.”

Whilst many fans were sad to see the programme come to an end, others argued that now felt the right time to call it a day.

They added online: “I love the series but honestly it was time for it to end anyway. Maybe even beyond time. Especially after Lucille left.”

As someone else penned: “I’m not too sorry about the show ending — it’s had a fabulous run, but the writing and storylines just aren’t what they were in the early years.”

The Daily Star were the first to report the news of the show’s end.

However, the BBC have clarified that whilst Call the Midwife’s main series may be paused – the show’s prequel and spin-off movie mean the show will still be on the air for years to come.

They said: “The BBC would like to reassure fans that Call The Midwife will remain at the heart of the BBC for years to come.

“As previously announced, there are two Christmas specials, a new series, a film and prequel series, before a sixteenth series in due course.

“Call the Midwife isn’t going anywhere.”

Up to 11 million people watched the highly-anticipated episodes at any time since it first launched in 2012.

It has won numerous awards including National Television Awards, TV Choice Awards and has received several BAFTA nominations.

Call The Midwife: A breakdown

Call The Midwife first came onto the airwaves in 2012 and has been seen by millions. But what is it about?

Series one: Set in early 1957 and it explored the ‘Baby Boom generation, which included themes of poverty and post-war immigration.

Series two: Set in 1958 and it showed gas and air being introduced for pain relief for the first time. It ended with the Nonnatus House building being condemned.

Series three: Set in 1959 and it depicted gruesome conditions such as cystic fibrosis, polio and it showed the midwives in the context on prisons.

Series four: Set in 1960 under the threat of nuclear warfare and the emergency response guidelines issued by the local Civil Defence Corp. Other themes included LGBT rights, and syphilis.

Series five: Set in 1961 and it shows the care of patients with conditions such as Typhoid and strokes. We also saw the effects of thalidomide, the introduction of the contraceptive pill.

Series six: Set in 1962 and domestic violence was at the centre of the season. Other themes included FGM (female genital mutilation), mental health issues and interracial marriage. It was also notable for the introduction of Reggie, a recurring character with Down Syndrome.

Series seven: Set in 1963 and we see Nurse Lucille Anderson for the first time. We also see the show address conditions such as dementia, huntington’s disease, leprosy and meningitis

Series eight: Set in 1964 and it bravely covered the issue of abortion, which was not legal for another three years in 1967. Sickle cell disease, cleft lip, cleft palate and intersex people also featured.

Series nine: Diptheria was at the centre of the ninth instalment in 1965, and it was notable for featuring a blind expectant mother. But the role of Nonnatus House within the community also came into question.

Series ten: Set in 1966, Nonnatus House has a rival in the form of the private Lady Emily Clinic in Mayfair. PKU, diabetes and the controversy surrounding abortion were central themes.

Series eleven: Set in 1967 amid the housing crisis and a scabies epidemic. The show was rocked by a train crash right next to Nonnatus House.

Read More »

Celeb doctor injected Botox up my NOSE – people tell me I look great thanks to little known secret treatment

LET me start by saying I’m not anti-ageing or anti-wrinkle – at 27, I’ve got no problem with the idea of looking more mature, and I’ve come to like the little lines that appear when I laugh and smile.

Maybe that will all change.

Jess from the Sun Club before and after Botox.
Jess Lester tested out Baby Botox for the first time, above after the injections
The Sun
Botox injection in a woman's jawline.
She booked an appointment with Dr Brendan Khong
The Sun
Close-up of a person receiving a botox injection to their nose.
The aesthetics expert injected Botox up her nose
The Sun
Jess two days after Botox.
Jess says the results were noticeable about a week after the treatments
The Sun

But after months of looking at my face in Zoom meetings and feeling like I appeared a little more tired and weathered than I felt, I started to get curious about Botox.

Not the frozen, wind-tunnel kind, I wanted the whisper of change… the kind that celebrities have before stepping out to say they’ve tried a new product that’s entirely changed their face shape.

The kind of tweak where your friends ask if you’ve “been sleeping better lately” or started “using laser treatments” because you’ve been looking “more glowy lately”. Enter: Baby Botox.

Now, I’d heard all the buzz, and the warnings, about microdoses of Botox that are there not to freeze your face in one place, but just soften things slightly, touch things up like Photoshop.

And after a few deep dives on TikTok and a couple of late-night WhatsApp group chats (cue my entire family threatening to disown me), I booked an appointment with Dr Brendan Khong.

Dr Khong is not your average injector. First off, he doesn’t believe in the whole “preventative Botox” craze that’s everywhere online at the moment, even if I desperately wanted him to.

This is not, he was clear, about injecting twenty-something’s into oblivion to change their appearance, and it’s not a rocket into the space of an entire new look, just a gentle nudge into the stratosphere.

Think a refresh without diving headfirst into the ever-growing pool of fillers, from lips to cheeks to chin to nose, and it all made perfect sense to me.

I went in asking for three things: a lip flip to lift my top lip slightly without using filler, jaw Botox to slim the face and ease my clenching habit, and a bit of brow Botox to give me that snatched, slightly lifted look, think high fashion catwalk model, not permanently surprised.

Instead of plumping the lips with filler, Dr Khong popped a tiny amount of Botox just above my lip, to relax the muscle enough to encourage it to flip up, giving a poutier look without adding volume.

It doesn’t make you look like you’ve had anything done, just like my top lip, which for a while felt like it was on strike in smiley photos, decided to show up to the party for once.

The jaw Botox was a little more… spicy – I was warned the needle might feel a little deeper in the skin.

I’ve had tattoos in places that I’ve been warned will hurt and still managed to nap through it, but there’s something about being pricked in your jaw muscles that makes you want to clench even harder. Not ideal.

The magic is, if you can get through it, in the weeks that follow it slims your face by relaxing the masseter muscles, seeing them get smaller and smaller until they felt almost like they’d disappeared.

My jaw hasn’t felt this relaxed in years, though, eating anything chewy became a chore and I soon realised I’d have to cut my food up into tiny bits to handle the tiredness I’d feel from trying to work muscles that had been, essentially, put to sleep.

Diet hack, I guess.

The brow Botox was the cherry on top – a secret move Dr Khong told me was his “signature”. Should I be worried? No. He showed me the results on other clients, and I was sold.

Botox injection into a woman's lip.
Botox was injected just above Jess’ lip to relax the muscle enough to encourage it to flip up
The Sun
Botox injection being administered to a woman's forehead.
The brow Botox is Dr Khong’s ‘signature’ move
The Sun
Woman's face with markings for Botox.
Jess also got jaw Botox which, although quite uncomfortable, helped slim her face by relaxing the masseter muscles
The Sun

It’s not a full-on brow lift, but the difference is real, as a friend told me just days after, I looked “like I’d had a holiday, or a facial, or both at the same time.” I’ll take it.

And to top things off, Dr Khong surprised me by sticking the needle up my nose. Yes, you read that right – in the name facial balancing, one prick more didn’t seem a bad idea.

What surprised me most was how little Botox was actually used. Baby Botox really is a minimalist’s dream. Dr Khong was conservative with the amount.

He’d rather I come back for a top-up than overdo it.

So what’s it like immediately afterwards? Honestly, sort of anticlimactic.

You’re left with a few tiny needle marks which fade fast, and you can’t lie down for four hours, no hardcore workouts, no drinking alcohol for at least 24 hours, no sun tanning, and no sex.

Luckily, I went on a Wednesday. No plans in store.

What surprised me most was how little Botox was actually used. Baby Botox really is a minimalist’s dream

The results don’t show up right away. It took about a week before I noticed the difference, but when I did?

Everyone kept telling me how good my skin looked – and I got ID’d buying a pair of scissors.

Not one person guessed Botox, so I could tell them green juice, and eight hours of sleep. Lies, all lies – and here I am, spoiling it all for myself.

My face still moves, I can still frown (albeit mildly), and I haven’t had to defend myself against a single “you’ve had work done”. Instead, I just keep hearing: “You look really well, what’s your secret?”

Just a few tiny jabs. But let’s keep that between us, shall we?

A gloved hand holding a vial of Botox.
Baby Botox really is a minimalist’s dream, says Jess Lester
The Sun

WILL BOTOX KNOCK YEARS OFF MY FACE?

By Jack Hardwick

“No gym, no sex and certainly no sunbeds for 24-48 hours” – words most guys would hate to hear.

But as I sat in the plush clinic at 41 Harley Street, this was my reality.

Man demonstrating Botox before and after.
Jack Hardwick popped his Botox cherry as his crows feet were becoming more and more visible
The Sun
Man receiving botox injections in his forehead.
He says he felt his forehead freezing up within 48 hours of the injections
The Sun
Man receiving botox treatment.
Jack is very happy with his new complexation
The Sun

Though I was promised the short term loss was worth it for the long term gain, as I was about to pop my Botox cherry.

As for the reason for my self imposed gym and sex ban? Any strenuous exercise that would raise my heartrate runs the risk of causing the Botox to migrate before it settles into the muscles.

The areas of concern? My very expressive 31-year-old forehead which seems to have a life of its own – especially after I have a drink – and my eyes.

More and more over the past 12 months I’ve noticed my eyes were beginning to look tired.

Dreaded crows feet were becoming more and more visible – especially in certain lighting like on the gym floor or in the office lifts.

After months of deliberating with friends – both male and female – I have decided to take matters into my own hands.

Many of my friends have been splashing out on Botox for years but for me it’s always been a female option – somehow emasculating to admit I’ve given in to the age old quest of turning back the clock.

But the past decade has seen a strong rise in men seeking out tweakments.

The amount of money spent by men on Botox rose by 400 per cent between 2000 and 2023, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.

In 2020 alone, it’s estimated that 265,000 men had Botox procedures.

Even with that in mind, as I sat down to pop my Botox cherry with Dr Ross at Cosmedics on Harley Street, my brief was clear – I wanted subtle touch ups rather than looking like I was frozen in time.

Enough to enhance my look, but subtle enough I could deny if anyone were to ask me.

When it comes to the six injections I had to remove my crows feet, I couldn’t be happier from the get go

After being marked up with no less than 20 injection points, it was time to receive my Botox.

The best way to describe the feeling is a wasp bite – a quick unpleasant crunch similar to being stung that’s over as quick as it began.

‘Exactly what I wanted’

The worst of these came in the six – three each side – around my eyes.

But even then, it was hardly painful. I was told it could take up to a week for the Botox to kick in but due to it being my first time I could feel my forehead freezing up within 48 hours.

Some of my mates love the feeling, I on the other hand was unsure.

Initially I admit I missed my formerly very expressive forehead but within a week I was super happy with my new smooth complexation.

When it comes to the six injections I had to remove my crows feet, I couldn’t be happier from the get go.

Thanks to a few little pricks, this issue has gone.

Has it knocked years off my face? No. But do I look fresher and more youthful? Yes. At least I think so – and to be honest that’s more than enough for me.

In fact, the few people I have told about my trip to Cosemedics had zero idea I’d had anything done – exactly what I wanted.

Though after showing them before and after pictures everyone can see the improvement.

Even my mum, who living in a rural village in Derbyshire couldn’t be further away from the often shallowness of London, conceded she thought it looked good.

Man receiving botox injection.
The reporter feels more youthful, although the Botox hasn’t knocked off years off his face
The Sun

Do's & Don'ts before and after Botox

Dr. Aamer Khan reveals the do's and don'ts with Botox

Do’s Before Botox

Consult a qualified practitioner with medical training and experience.

Inform your practitioner about all medications, supplements, and medical conditions.

Avoid alcohol and blood-thinning medications (aspirin, ibuprofen, vitamin E) for 24–48 hours.

Stay hydrated and have a light meal before your appointment.

Ask questions about the procedure, expectations, and outcomes.

Don’ts Before Botox

Avoid retinol, glycolic acid, or exfoliants on treatment areas for 24 hours.

Don’t schedule within 2 weeks of major events to allow time for the treatment to work and any healing. needed, possible bruising, which can occur.

Reschedule if you’re feeling unwell (cold, infection, etc.).

Try to avoid makeup on the day of treatment, unless it is mineral make up.

Do’s After Botox

Gently move treated muscles (smile, frown) to help Botox settle.

Stay upright for 4–6 hours post-treatment.

Apply cold compresses gently to reduce swelling if there is any.

Use mild, non-active skincare to keep skin clean and calm.

Don’ts After Botox

Do not lie down or bend over for at least 4–6 hours.

Avoid touching or rubbing the injected area for 24 hours.

Skip workouts and heat exposure (gym, saunas, hot yoga) for 24 hours.

Don’t apply makeup or active skincare for at least 12–24 hours.

Avoid alcohol and blood thinners for 24 hours post-treatment.

For any concerns post-treatment, always contact your provider directly. Mild redness, swelling, or bruising is common and usually subsides within a few days.

Read More »