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FIZZY DRINKS PUT ME IN HOSPITAL

N U FPUZZLES! WOMEN USE ME TO

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TRICK MEN

MUMMY HELPS TO BREATHE

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E I D R E H TO M 0 YEA OL S N IS A DRAG QUEEN

!

T I R E V O T E G ...

BROTHER because he was the

BEAST ON THE BEACH

STAND AGAINST A PLAIN, LIGHT WALL

WE WANT YOU!

W E ’ RE LO OK ING F OR W OMEN JUST L IK E YO U T O A P P E A R I N OUR M AG A Z I NE S .

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Contents On the cover

!

MI

Thisweek,we’re recognisingthe amazingworkof JohnYates,from Plaistow,West Sussex.Hewrote tosay…

WORDSBY HANNAH POON PHOTOS: SWNS

P

utting together the final touches to my cart, I was ready to set off on my next challenge.

It was September last year, and I was about to I wanted to embark on a 300-mile raise awareness cart pulling challenge, to raise money for Brooke, the working horse and donkey charity.

12-hours a day, it took me a I’ve always been a big animal month to get back home. lover and after completing a Due to the early autumn 900-mile cycle in 2018 for flooding, I was pushing my way Senior Staffy Club, I decided to through inches of water, take on a challenge each year. creating blisters on my feet.

So, with my 50kg cart But with just my cart to sleep attached behind me, I made in, I had to keep walking. my way through Shrewsbury, I’d crafted the cart so I could Kidderminster, Worcester, rest my head in it of a night, but Gloucester, Cirencester, it was hardly waterproof.

Swindon and Salisbury.

It wasn’t nice getting into a Trekking for anything up to wet bed every evening!

However, there was a reason I was doing this.

There are millions of working horses and donkeys, living in awful conditions.

1 2 3 4 Forced to carry water, food and heavy objects, they’re tortured daily, and when 5 they’re no longer fit to work, they’re dumped or killed. As

Bitesize!

6 7

ACROSS 1 Travelled by air (4) 5 Diplomatic adviser (4) 6 Animal enclosure (4) 7 Hard journey (4) JUST DOWN FOR 1 Verifiable truth (4) 2 Big fibber (4) 3 Outer limit (4) 4 Seven days (4)

FUN

Read down the shaded squares for the answer.

Answer on page 47.

well as raising nearly £1700 for Brooke, I wanted to raise awareness about this important issue.

So, I used this opportunity to talk to local people.

Most people were super friendly and were more than happy to listen to me.

When I got home on 29 October, it was nice to get into dry clothes, but I was incredibly grateful for the challenge.

I hope, in some way, I opened people’s eyes to the conditions these animals are living in.

Now, as I plan for my next challenge, I intend on raising even more awareness for the animals.

While I’ll do it for a different animal charity, my mission will be the same.

To give animals the best possible life.

Next year, I want to raise awareness about volunteers and charities who are helping to rescue animals.

Rescue animals have a bad reputation of being dangerous or ill, but that’s not the case.

I’ve had my two rescue dogs – Vizsla Staff, Wibble and Lurcher, Peppa – for nine years, and they’re the light of my life!

 Just Giving Page: John Yates 300 mile cartc

Sneaky peek at this week!

P9 Finishing touches

6 I’d just got my girl back… then I had to listen to her die 10 My 10 year old son is a drag queen, get over it!

17 Fizzy drinks put me in hospital 24 Women use me to trick men 32 Heroic Henry. Mummy helps him to breathe 42 He shot his brother because he was the beast on the beach

More real life 20 28 30 37 50

All in my reach Bingo winner Take my advice Shorts for all seasons Text on the beach

From you 3 One in a million 12 Your brainwaves

Feelgood 4 9 15 16 23 26 34 36 38 39 40 46 48 49

Your pick me ups Your home Your dilemmas Your health Animal magic Your style Storm in a teacup Your telly Genius or bonkers?

Look amazing!

Easy eats…

Solve it in 7 Food and drink Your stars l Shortland ter: Laea Marshall riters: Rosie Crass, on, Nia Dalton signer: Victoria Elliott Emily Kelford igners: Yazz Williams, xham, Mel Walter

26 Pops colour P24 Men think I’m their girlfriend!

3

me Good deed of the week ince 2004, there has been a steady decline in mental wellbeing in the UK, especially among children. Leicestershire businesswoman Joanna Proud has come up with an idea to support these youngsters – Mood Bears.

‘As little people, we often feel the same emotions as adults, but we don’t always have words for what we feel, or know how to express them,’ says Joanna.

Mood Bears are designed to help with this.

There are five cuddly bears that each express one of the five recognised feelings or states - sad, silly, nervous, love, and happy – encouraging kids to talk, listen and understand feelings.

For anyone wanting to express their feelings, Mood Bears are a helpful and comforting support.

If nothing else, who doesn’t love a bear hug?

You can pre-order a Mood Bear for £19.99 on w.moodbears.co.uk

What would you do?

W

e all love our pets, but do you value your animals more than a human life?

Apparently, many of us do. A study b American Hospital Association has fou that 40% of us would save our dog – o someone else’s – from a burning build over a stranger.

Other scenarios included saving the over a grandparent, a best friend, a co or a sibling.

The study, conducted on 500 people showed that 46% of those who chose t save their pet were women.

We hope this never actually happens but should this hypothetical scenario occur, dogs certainly have nothing to f

WORDS: SWNS STOCK IMAGES: GETTY AND ALAMY

GET IN TOUCH

Sendusyourstoriesand photos, including all names and ages, a daytime phone number and full address.

E-mailhello@pickmeupma .co.uk WRITE TO Pick Me Up! Media Centre, Emma-Chris Way, Abbey Wood Park, Filton, Bristol, BS34 7JU PHONE 01174400607 FACEBOOK facebook.com/pickmeupmag SEE OUR WEBSITE lifedeathprizes.com TI Media Limited reserves the right to reuse any submission sent to Pick Me Up! magazine, in any format or medium.

Unfortunately, we can’t return photos without a stamped sae.

Letters/photos must not be sent to any other publication.

4

DID YOU KNOW? ove c oco ate as muc as we D25odo?you The average Brit spends more than on chocolate every year – and our vourite bar? Dairy Milk!

According to a survey by oneySavingHeroes, three in five Brits nsider chocolate an essential part of

Playtime at nannies!

I love having my anddaughter two ys a week, she eps me on my es. Carol Adams, West Midlands

My 13-year-old daughter Jennifer made gifts for homeless people in Windsor and gave them out with a smile. Her amazing heart has restored my faith in humanity!

Rebecca Alcock, Bedfordshire

STAR LET TER

DON’T MISS! J

anuary 25 marks the beginning of the Chinese New year, and this year is the year of the rat.

Were you born in 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, or 2008? If so, you’re lucky to be associated with this clever creature.

Optimistic and energetic, rats are likable by most people.

They’re sensitive to others’ emotions, but can also be quite stubborn.

They love being organised and place a huge importance on family.

In 2020, your finances will be booming! Lucky rats!

UN US BU UAL Y

Look at my little mama’s cutie! Bless him. Sian Salsbury,

Cradley Heath

Crossing the finish line on my first half marathon in Birmingham. It was so hard but I felt a great sense of achievement!

Alexandra Low, Halesowen

og owners rejoice!

D Planning your perfect pooch’s big day just got a whole lot easier.

This amazing Dog’s Birthday Party Kit is pawfect for making sure your good boy has the best day. This ideal gift

for any dog lover includes a party hat, a bow tie, a celebratory flag, a dog toy, coloured streamers and some petty-confetti.

Let’s hope they don’t feel too woof the day after…

Pawty kit, £11.99, prezzybox.com

This is me and Evie at her cousin’s princess party. I couldn’t find Snow White outfit s I made one! Amand Hadley, Hayseech

our l will receive some beautiful blooms from Flying Flowers. With over 30 years’ experience of helping celebrate life’s special moments and FREE delivery by post, a gorgeous bouquet by Flying Flowers is a lovely way to celebrate sharing smiles and happiness. See lyingflowers.co.uk for more details.

5

B

lowing my The light nails so they’d of my life dry quicker, I grabbed the clear topcoat varnish and took it to the living room where my daughter Jade, 14, was watching telly.

‘Want to finish my nails off?’ I smiled, passing her the bottle.

‘Oooh yes,’ she squealed setting up on the dining room table.

It was her turn to pamper me.

Jade was chuffed I’d given her such an honour.

When I started my job a a nail technician, I agreed that Jade could occasiona have a go on my nails if sh returned the favour.

I needed to practice, an she loved to shine, especia when sitting on the back o horse, her favourite pastim Extremely outdoorsy, and always up for a hands-on adventure, Jade had taken up horse riding as a young child like it was in her blood.

She also adored her older brother Aiden, now 17.

She and I always had a strong mother-daughter bond, especially after we lost her dad, Paul, in 2016.

It had been a freak accident.

As a tree surgeon, he fell 60ft from the top of a conifer one day to his death.

Jade was only 11 at the time, but she picked herself up.

We spent a lot of time at the local horse stables together and that’s where she had her biggest smile.

She had dreams of becoming a professional rider – she would ride into the championship ring and Adley, Aiden, Dad and I perform all the tricks to the prepared dinner, and I heard highest standard.

Jade trundling in.

As proud as I was of my little ‘My cough is getting worse,’ girl for being a true explorer, I she uttered, wheezing. loved having her home to Jade’s eyes had big bags snuggle with and watch a under them. trashy film together.

She’d had a cough for a A few months after Paul couple of days, but it sounded passed away, I met Neil, 45, at chestier now. a charity event.

We’d gone to the GP the day We became friends, and before – nothing more than a then a couple, and in September 2018, we welcomed our son Adley, now one.

Still, even with three kids in tow, I was always especially close to Jade.

Which is why I found myself hovering by the front door after she’d come back from her horse riding lesson in May 2019.

My mum Charleen, 55, and dad Dave, 56, had come over for the night. As Mum held Always my angel

e H T A E R B

WORDS BY HOLLY SAWYER AND LAEA MARSHALL PHOTOS: SWNS

Louise Owe Stockport, never thought anything could break the bond she had with her precious daughter…

6

bad cold, they’d thought.

The doctor had heard fluid in her lungs, which explained the cough, and she was given antibiotics to keep her on track.

I told Jade to go straight to bed, and we all had an early night.

The next morning, I woke to hear Mum’s worried voice in Jade’s room.

I hurried in.

‘You need to take her to A&E ow. Something’s wrong,’ Mum said with urgency.

As an NHS nurse herself, I didn’t hesitate.

I bundled Jade into the car, leaving my parents to watch the kids, and made my way to Stepping Hill Hospital.

In the car, Jade looked pretty out of it.

She was also breathing very owly. At the hospital, Jade

Why had this happened?

was rushed to the ward.

A doctor pricked her finger for tests and discovered diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA).

‘It’s is a complication from diabetes,’ the doctor explained.

I was stunned.

We had no idea that Jade was diabetic.

‘Your daughter isn’t producing enough insulin, so the tissue in her body can break down,’ he explained.

‘If we don’t do something fast, she can die.’

I just couldn’t believe what I

H

We were such a close family

was hearing.

One moment Jade was a happy, normal 14-yearold, the next she was ose to death.

The next morning, the octor had some news.

‘To give her the best hances, we should send er to Manchester hildren’s Hospital onight,’ he said.

‘She isn’t responding well to the insulin we’ve iven her so far.’

I went with Jade in he ambulance to Manchester, holding her hand tightly the whole way.

When we arrived, she was whisked away and I didn’t see her again until later that afternoon.

In the critical care unit, she looked so fragile hooked up to tubes and wires.

‘We’ve put her in an induced coma,’ the doctor explained.

It was to let her body rest, and so doctors could carry out further tests.

It would also stop her brain from swelling up.

Jade was on a ventilator with a central line in her neck.

‘Is my girl going to be OK?’ I asked the doctor.

‘At the moment she has a 50/50 chance of survival, but even if she does come out of this coma, there’s a good chance she’ll be severely brain damaged,’ he explained. It felt

as if my whole world was crumbling around me.

Devastated, I fell to the floor in tears, praying for a miracle.

In the days that followed, I stayed by Jade’s side.

I even booked myself into a hotel across the road so I could be close to her.

Neil and my mum looked after the kids at home, and they came to visit every day.

Mum even brought up Jade’s favourite stuffed polar bear teddy, which she’d had since she was a baby.

Placing it by her side, I kissed her gently.

‘Come back,’ I whispered.

And she did.

After five agonising days watching my girl strung up to a ventilator, on 27 May, Jade woke up from the coma – I couldn’t believe it.

The doctors and nurses were just as amazed as I was, even more so when a CT scan showed she hadn’t experienced any brain damage at all.

Her eyes cracked open and she smiled when she saw me.

‘I’m starving, can I have a McDonald’s, Mum?’ she asked.

I laughed for the first time in forever – my girl was back.

Slowly but surely, Jade started to find her feet again.

Doctors were taking the time to teach us all about diabetes, and how we could help Jade monitor her insulin levels to prevent an attack like this one.

Jade was moved to a high dependency unit for two days, then joined a standard ward as she was improving so fast.

We’d walk around the hospital together, laughing and giggling like normal.

She even offered to paint my nails again.

‘When you’re better and back home, how about getting you a horse?’ I smiled.

‘Oh my God, yes!’ Jade cried.

Two weeks on, Jade was herself again.

Even though she was still in hospital, she was back to her normal, cheeky ways.

I left her side that evening, as she was scoffing a Special K bar with her grandma.

‘I’ll see you in the morning, love,’ I murmured, exhausted from the late hospital nights.

She’s back, I told myself.

My little girl was back again.

The next morning, 11 June, at 8:30am, my phone wouldn’t stop buzzing.

My eyes still blurry from being woken up, I answered.

‘Lou, it’s Jade. Something’s really wrong,’ my mum said.

I didn’t even listen to the rest of what she said before I pulled

REAL LIFE breathing in mould spores – some clothes on and sprinted which killed the tissue and across the road to the hospital. blood vessels in her throat, and When I got there, it was like the airways and passageways a warzone. to her lungs.

Jade was shut away behind a The mould could’ve come curtain, but I could hear the from anywhere, but our theory noises – she was choking, and is that because Jade was it wouldn’t stop. outside all the time and in Doctors put me in a room, horse stables, it could’ve been and it felt like an eternity. lying around there.

Then they came Her diabetes in the room, with made her my daughter’s vulnerable to the blood on them – infection – if only just 20 minutes we’d known she was after she’d started diabetic, we coughing. might’ve had a ‘There’s nothing chance to save her. we could’ve done,’ I couldn’t get over one of them said. the suddenness of her death – ‘She was choking on her own she seemed completely fine, blood. We tried our best to help then was gone in an instant. her. I’m so sorry, but she’s As a family, we’ve been doing passed away.’ our best to cope.

My heart shattered.

I often think of visiting the I dropped to the ground, stables that Jade loved so screaming, but no sound was much, but I think it would be coming out. too painful for me.

How could she be dead?

Having lost my partner and She was getting better! my daughter in such a short After five minutes, they let space of time has completely me see her. floored me.

I walked behind the hospital I don’t think my heart could curtain and collapsed again. take anymore.

Jade was covered in blood.

Jade was the rock of our Her white bedsheets were family, but my happy crimson, and her face was memories of her are tarnished soaked in red. from seeing her drenched in My gorgeous, sweet, funny, her own blood. clever girl was gone – and no That image is in my head all one knew why. day, every day.

The following weeks were a But I must focus on my blur, and on 10 July 2019 we precious girl’s giggle, her held Jade’s funeral. wicked laugh and her cheery, She was carried by a horseupbeat attitude. drawn carriage as a tribute to I know that Jade would her favourite pastime. expect nothing less.

We also played her favourite songs – You’re Not Alone

by Astraea and Remedy by Adele.

Putting my daughter in the ground took all my courage.

I spent the next few months in a blur of shock and grief.

How could my girl be gone?

When we got Jade’s postmortem results in October, it was the final piece to the puzzle of why we lost our girl.

They revealed she’d died from Forever in mucormycosis – our hearts a one in a million fungal infection usually caused by

They came in with my girl’s blood on them

7

FUN Follow it!

R O F T S U J

Juan’s nd (6,4)

Light, ethereal

Digits of the foot

Ogle, look suggestively

Solve the puzzle to spell out a term related to the picture. The arrows show you where to put your answers.

The answer is spelled in the yellow squares.

Answers on page 47.

Lincoln’s nickname

Fact used by a detective

Green hairy fruit

Cur

Weathercock

Swinging rhythm

__ Piper, actress

Join as one

Small species of deer

Religious entreaties

Piste runner

Evil spirit

Tender

Charity money

Unnoticed observer (3,2,3,4)

Payment

Fine silky fabric

Irish , hot meat dish

Coloured (hair)

Slantwise

Prepared

Gag

Lascivious

More imminent

Rifle, for instance

King , Shakespeare play

L

E

A

AGES: GETTY

Planet, Mars

Monogram notebook, £6 each, Debenhams 8

Love birds notebook , £2.95, RexLondon

Alter to fit

I

Because of (3,2)

E

Omagh’s county

Basic Italian food

Human form

Eve’s partner

Flank

Carried out

Bashful

See photo

Attached house

Female deer Roman goddess of hunting

S

Power of vision

Hot Trend!

R

Sorrow

Pertinent, relevant

Give support to

Disencumber

Stain

Commotion

Swaps

Climb

Jung, psychologist

Venomous snake

Teases

Active volcano on Sicily

Procedures

Bleached by the sun

Used a pen

Throat passage

Shelter

Sugar root

Chosen group

Burglar

Cosmetic item

Pigs’ home

Greek author of fables

Honour, award (inits)

Very dry

Board-game pieces

Shoulder harness

e Mak e somns pla

Leopard notebook, £6,Sainsbury’s Home

Cat notebook , £3, Sainsbury’s Home

Lockable notebook, £8, Paperchase

Printed notebook, £10, National Trust

__ Bean, actor

Brilliant buys from Very!

Starburst mirror, £27 Bamboo shade, £25

Jute rug, £24.99

Seagrass hanging planter, £15

Find th range e very.c at o.uk

Textured cushion, £12.99

Throw, £19.99

Flamingo trinket box, £24

Set of green bottles, £12 Cactus vase, £14

Faux plant, £18

Basket, £18

Duvet set, from £15 Side plates, £15.99 for 4

9

PL L U B A F ! r a t s r e p u The next s

WORDS BY HOLLY SAWYER AND LAEA MARSHALL PHOTOS: SWNS

A

s I knocked on my little boy’s door, I was ready to see his new look.

Fabian, 10, didn’t dress like other boys his age, nor did he kick a football around or want to play video games all day.

He never liked any of that stereotypically ‘boyish’ stuff and would turn down his dad, Darren, 40, if he asked to play rugby with him or bought him toy cars.

Even so, I’d never been too worried about him.

And when I walked into his bedroom to see Fabian trying out a pair of my new high heels, I felt nothing but pride for the person he was now becoming.

Ever since Fabian was born in 2009, he’d been fascinated with fashion.

When he was four, he’d put my shoes on and pretend to walk down a catwalk, covered

j y p my room.

‘Woo, go on Fabian!’ I’d cheer from the other side of the living room, as his dad looked on at us, slightly confused at what on earth was going on.

He’d gawk at the TV whenever any fashion shows came on, and would ‘shush’ us if we spoke over them.

‘This is important to me,’ he’d mumble.

‘I want to be just like them.’

As the years passed, Fabian’s urge to dress up got stronger.

One day, as we watched the telly, he turned to me curiously and asked; ‘Mummy, can I wear a skirt like that girl?’

Wanting the best for my son, I agreed.

‘As long as you’re happy, I couldn’t care less what you wear,’ I assured him.

He jogged happily home after hours of school that day, excited to rummage through my clothes again and let his alter ego out.

One morning in 2018, I took

As long as he’s happy, I don’t care what he wears

10

When her son pu of heels, Rachel Butler, 44, from Gwent, didn’t bat an eyelid. Now he’s the most glamorous kid she knows!

Fabian, then eight, to his best friend Evie’s house.

The pair always got along like a house on fire, with not a worry on their minds. t’s when Fabian called me from Evie’s mobile just an hour after I’d left him.

‘Mum, I’ve got to show you something,’ he said excitedly.

I panicked.

‘Is everything alright?’ I asked frantically.

‘I’ve found other people like me!’ he cried out.

‘There’s a show that Evie showed me, and it’s what I want to do. They understand who I am.’

What does he mean? I I promised to thought. support him What are ‘people’ like him?

I picked him up to take him home that evening, and saw how Evie, 13, had helped dress my son in full makeup, complete with glittery heels and jewels fit

for the queen.

Blimey, I thought.

He’s made for the stage!

Later that evening, I cuddled up with him on the sofa in the living room to watch this ‘magic show’ Fabian had been talking about.

Ru Paul’s Drag Race – in all its eccentric glory – was blasting into my home and injecting my boy with a happiness I’d never seen in him before.

‘I want to be a drag queen,’ he stated. ‘I want to be beautiful like them.’

Fabian’s revelation didn’t bother me at all. I just loved the

REAL LIFE Isn’t he gorgeous?!

LOUS fact that he was so passionate about something.

So, the process began.

If Fabian wanted to become a drag queen, then that’s what I would help him do.

Just like if he wanted to be a doctor – what right did I have to stand in his way?

Even Darren, who didn’t fully understand, was supportive of our son.

‘I just wan happy,’ he s ‘We need you a stage n I told Fabia ‘Every su drag queen drag name.

Fabian th long and ha one for wee end, and ev settled on Francheska a nice nod t Welsh roots Quickly, F performanc was sh I’d w him pr aroun room,

His so p

pop songs like his drag icons on the TV. Knowing my son was so confident within himself filled me with joy, but I was also worried for him.

A th I k

A born performer

h

like being Francheska.’ will be nice to d,’ I told him. is as open and as we are, you ember who you urself up.’ st that. idence grew even his dad stand who was. mum Carol, 62, rd, and would vintage or Fabian to we had a baby rren thought it e a little version someone to ugby ball with and take pub when he d enough. as Fabian came s own, we both d that he a lads’ lad. t wear that Darren used to embarrassing.’ h and walk n carried on itation.

Dad. I’m a d. rely, as Fabian n the drag rren paid more

interest, too.

‘I have a show with my drama lesson this week,’ Fabian told us one day.

We’d seen him singing around the house, practising.

At first, Darren refused to go.

But the more we saw Fabian master his performances, the more Darren wanted to see his son glow.

So much so, he even came to the show in the end.

God, I thought as we looked on.

This is my son.

The most natural performer I’ve ever seen on stage!

‘I’m so proud,’ Darren said, tears welling in his eyes.

In 2019, we set up an Instagram page for him, and watched the followers reel in.

Now he has over 700 followers.

Of course, we still see burn in hell comments on there, but Fabian didn’t bat an eyelid.

There are loads of positive comments, too.

I wish my mum was as supportive as you, one wrote.

Despite his young age, Fabian is the most strongminded boy I’ve ever met.

In the face of controversy, he sashays away and gets on with what makes him happy.

When he was four, he was miserable in dinosaur shirts.

Now, Fabian has a wardrobe full of sparkly dresses and more earrings than I can count – he’s even got more clothes than me!

Fabian doesn’t want to change gender, he just loves wearing dresses.

If he’s not in his school uniform, he’s in a dress.

He’s due to start secondary school soon, and I do worry.

Teenagers can be cruel.

But Fabian doesn’t mind.

‘I don’t care if people don’t like me,’ he says proudly.

He dances around the aisles of Asda while I do the shopping, but I wouldn’t have him any other way.

He’s the next drag superstar, and we are the proudest parents around.

Follow Francheska Valley on Instagram @Francheskavalley.

11

...

Your We share your brilliant tips!

The grass is greener

Be a winner !

I was spending a fortune on buying fresh flowers until one day on a countryside walk, I noticed some beautiful grasses growing by the path. They look fabulous and last ages and the best bit is they don’t cost a penny! Becky Jacobs, Birmingham

h s week, our t p o the week will receive a great product from Addis! Their premium washing up range (from £5.99) is designed to protect your dishes and your sinkware. No longer worry about damaging your sink as the soft touch feet prevent scratches and offers cushioning protection while the inner liner protects your dishes. For more ways to make your everyday life easier, visit addis.co.uk

Tip

of the

week

r e v e Cl ea! id

Rooting for you!

Put a dry sponge in the vegetable drawer of the fridge to absorb extra moisture. It helps keep veg crisp and fresh!

Judith Cairns, Essex

Iced cake

I put a sheet of aluminium foil und my cake tray when I was icing my cake to catch the drips Colleen Brunton, Enfield

Fresh spuds a eup queen

12

Kitch hacken !

COMPILED BY NIA DALTON

I always use a primer instead of a make-up remover to fix eye makeup mistakes. It leaves a primed surface for new attempts and makes less of a mess. Angela Garvin, Romford

you want to keep our spuds fresher or longer and not growing any roots, hen stick an apple in with hem! The ethylene gas stops spuds from prouting.

Amanda Hadley, Hayseech

Remember, these are YOUR tips – we havent tried them ourselves

R O F T S U J

Fill it!

N U F

ACROSS

Complete the grid then read down the shaded squares to reveal the name of a meteorological phenomenon. Answer on page 47.

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DOWN

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23

24

7 Have need of (7) 8 Bet win and place (4-3) 9 Green vegetable (7) 10 Taking neither side (7) 12 Spotty dogs (10) 13 Party-giver (4) 15 Unpleasant ending (1,5,2,3,4) 18 Cut with scissors (4) 19 Worthy, respectable (10) 21 Small changing room (7) 23 Noisy party or dance (7) 24 Find another home for (7) 25 Include, hold (7) 1 Track, monitor (4,4,2) 2 Charlie ___, Sons of Anarchy actor (6) 3 Label on an item for sale (5,3) 4 Lovingly touch (6) 5 Commonplace talk (4-4) 6 Rooney ___, US actress (4) 11 Decorate (food) (7) 14 Research-based (10) 16 Lock up in jail (8) 17 London airport (8) 19 Except if (6) 20 Give charitably (6) 22 Second-hand (4)

Your answer ______________________________

25

______________________________

JUST FOR

Strik

59

On your bingo card, cross out all the numbers that appear on the balls. Read the letters beside the remaining numbers on your card from left to right to spell out your answer word.

Answer on page 47.

A

11

S B

3 9

3 48

35

24

81

2

84

67

26

G

20 32 46

N

24

T

E

I

P

37

P

53

H

63

Which one of the listed numbers won’t fit in this mini grid?

Answer on page 47.

19

65

37

16

FUN Number fit!

78

49

0

R

I

S

S

74 81

O

59 67 78 89

2670 / 2790 / 7096 / 9027 / 9672 13

...

Your

ce vi ad d oo g e m so r fo ! p U e M k ic P Stuck for what to do? Write to My husband wastes money and I hate it. I save so hard and he’ll come home with a gadget he’ll get bored of in five minutes. It’s causing so many arguments. Anna,Sheffield

Q Hannah Martin, founder of Talented Ladies Club talentedladiesclub.com, is on a mission to unlock the potential of women and help them take control of their finances

A

Do you keep track of your family income and spending?

It can help to show your husband how much these impulse purchases are costing over a few months.

He might be shocked himself at how much he is, in effect, wasting.

If this doesn’t work, and you really can’t agree on how he spends money, then why not agree a carefully calculated monthly personal et for each of you?

Identi h money is left over each

PHOTOS: GETTY

In too deep

month after all your bills are covered (as well as any savings and a buffer for unexpected expenses), then mutually decide how much of this you want to allocate to personal spending money.

This way, you’ll be satisfied that it’s money you can afford to ‘lose’, and will be less concerned about how he spends it.

And on the plus side, you get your own guilt-free spending (or saving) money too.

Looking ahead

I’ve got myself into debt and I don’t know where to turn. I have several credit cards, and the interest alone is more than I can afford. I feel so stupid.

Karlee,StokeonTrent

Q

Q

A

A

You’ve already made the first positive st to tackling your situation by acknowledging it and asking for help.

The Money Advice Service has information about debt management and offers free debt advice.

They’ll be able to offer yo advice, and come up with a plan, based on your personal situation.

You don’t need to feel a shame in asking for help.

They’ll find ways to manage your debts and even if you think you have no spare money.

They’ll also be able to suggest ways to deal with debts that you might not k b t

Someone asked me recently about having a pension for my future. I’ve never had one and now I’m worried. I only have a part time job right now, and all my money goes into my rent and my family. Hayley,Portsmouth

It can seem impossible to even make a start on saving for your old age when every penny is accounted for.

Keeping a money diary will help.

Record every single thing you spend money on – from electricity to food and your phone.

Then, at the end of each month, for each thing you spend money on, ask yourself if you need it.

If you do, look for ways you can save money on it. If you don’t, can you ditch it?

Finding even a modest amount of money each month you can put aside in a savings plan will help you feel better.

Once you start saving, it’s worth getting financial advice on the best place to save your hard earned money.

GETTING HELP If you’d like advice from our Pick Me Up! expert, email us at hello@ pickmeupmag.co.uk or write to us at the address on our contacts page (pg4). If your problem affects your mental wellbeing, you can call the helpline run by the charity Mind on 0300 123 3398, open 9am to 6pm weekdays.

In denialÉ

D

o you avoid looking at your bank balance? Do you rarely talk about money with your partner?

If you do, you could be s from one of the most common mo disorders – financial denial.

When in financial denial, you av looking into your money situation simply bury your head in the sand comes to potential problems.

You don’t need us to tell you, it’ Tracking your incomings and outgoings is essential and we pro will be better than the stomach ch feeling you have when you don’t.

YOU’VE GOT THIS

15

Your

Disclaimer: Medical advice provided is for interest only and should never be substituted for seeing a doctor or seeking medical advice. If you have specific medical concerns please seek advice from a qualified medical professional.

Health

INSTANT

Feeling sick

Q

I’ve changed my contraceptive pill and I think it's making me feel nauseous.

Will this pass over time?

appointment Dr Clair Grainger at UK-based online doctor Zava UK (www. zavamed.com/uk)

Painful problem

Q

I keep getting piles and it's really uncomfortable. Are there any home remedies that will help prevent it?

Sally, Bournemouth.

A

Piles are more common than you may think, and can be extremely painful.

There are many home remedies that are rumoured to help with the symptoms until you can seek medical help or

What’s the cause?

Q

My jaw always clicks out of place and it's really painful. Why is that? Jane, Sunderland.

A

Jaw popping is an unpleasant, but common, condition typically caused by temporomandibular disorder (TMD).

Signs of TMD include the clicking and popping of the jaw, as well as headaches and jaw locking, which can make it tricky to open and close the mouth. TMD can be

Lilly, Cardiff.

purchase some over the counter medicines.

Aloe Vera can be used to manage haemorrhoid symptoms as it’s antiinflammatory properties are thought to reduce swelling.

A warm bath is another ‘go to’ home remedy.

Over the counter ointments are available and can offer immediate relief.

Small lifestyle changes can also help prevent piles, including staying active, eating foods high in fibre, drinking plenty of water and avoiding sitting for long periods of time on the toilet.

Try to go to the toilet as soon as you feel the urge as holding it in makes it harder and more painful to pass.

See your doctor to make sure you don't have any underlying causes. exacerbated by eating chewy or hard foods, eating with your front teeth, biting your nails, or yawning too widely.

To prevent it, try to eat softer foods and id clenching our teeth or resting your chin in your hands, which can force your teeth together.

If you're in in, massage your jaw regularly and use over the counter painkillers, heat or ice packs to relieve discomfort.

If the pain is persistent I'd suggest speaking to your GP.

A

When it comes to the contraceptive pill, it’s difficult to be sure what side effects each pill will have from person to person.

Nausea can be common in the early stages of taking a new pill but will often get better in the first three months or so.

If it doesn’t improve or your nausea is affecting your day to day life you should see your doctor to make sure there aren’t any other underlying causes and to think about changing contraception.

Every woman reacts differently to the combination of hormones in the contraceptive pill, and many won’t experience any side effects at all.

At Zava we've found that up to a third of women who have side effects from their contraceptive pill unnecessarily put up with these rather than seeking help from their doctor.

It’s important to remember that it's quite common to try different pills before you find the one that works the best for you.

CONTACT US For advice, contact us via one of the methods below. Letters and emails are selected randomly for publication. Sorry, doctors can’t reply personally. WRITE TO: Pick Me Up! Media Centre, Emma-Chris Way, Abbey Wood Park, Filton, Bristol, BS34 7JU. EMAIL: hello@pickmeupmag.co.uk 16

HOW TOÉ Treatrosacea

Rosacea usually needs treatment for symptoms to be kept under control, but there are a number of things you can do yourself to help improve your symptoms.

1

Avoid your triggers Alcohol, caffeine and spicy foods can all trigger rosacea.

2

Take care of your skin Use products that are suitable for sensitive skin and avoid perfumed soap and alcohol-based products.

3

Use make-up Patches of persistent redness can be covered up with specially designed camouflage make-up. Green tinted make-up is best.

4

Use a sunscreen Cover up and make sure you’re wearing SPF before you leave the house on sunny days.

have u o y f I tent persisoms of symptea, see rosac r GP you

FI

Meiverisiska Diack, 39, from Norfolk, didn’t realise she was doing her bladder any serious harm…

u see those angry and enlarged asked. are the result of a ladder infection, y your ion of fizzy drinks.’ d to stop drinking month, and take uzzling a cold fizzy biotics. drink, I felt the onth later, I sweet bubbles a follow-up trickle down my copy. throat.

And thankfully, My favourite, I thought. er obeying the It was mid-2019, and I tor’s orders, the adored a fizzy hit. der infection had After being diagnosed ared up. with MS in 2011, I started to t the dreaded pay more attention to y wasn’t over… doctor’s health advice. here’s one dark red Learning about the health I was hospitalised hat we are worried problems connected with Not as the doctor said, sugar in fizzy drinks, I innocent ned. ‘I’m arranging swapped my regular cola for as it looks nt biopsy.’ a zero-calorie and sugardays later, I had the ultrasound and free option. worse, and I still had blood nder general cystoscopy a I thought it was a great appearing in my urine. anae ic and a third, more procedure to c alternative, and it tasted just as ‘We’re booking an rigorous cystoscopy to check my bladder and ureth , good, too! appointment with the GP,’ for cancerous bladder tissue. said, anxiously.

‘That bottle is disappearing!’ Trevor said.

‘What if I’ve got cancer?’ I Trevor went with me to the my husband, Trevor, 59, We arrived at the doctors, cried to Trevor. hospital for an appointment. laughed. ‘You really shouldn’t and the on-duty nurse asked ‘I’m never drinking fizzy The nurse instructed me to drink so much.’ me for a urine sample. drinks again,’ I promised, drink lots of water.

For the past three years, I’ve The test confirmed I had a pouring myself a glass of water I wish this was fizzy, I been drinking 1 litre of the urine infection. and squash. thought, gulping it. addictive pop a day.

‘I’m going to send your After anxiously I had an I’m not a fan of water, and I sample to a medical lab to test My bladder waiting two weeks, ultrasound before never drink alcohol. I didn’t see for bladder inflammation,’ she my results came in and after going to the harm. explained to me. was the post. the toilet to examine Then one day in August I was given antiobiotics, red and ‘The biopsy shows my bladder.

2019, I was sat on the toilet which I took for three days to inflammation only After, I was when I noticed red blood on help calm my bladder. inflamed with no evidence of the tissue.

But I still felt uncomfortable. ushered into a cancer!’ Trevor said. treatment room to ‘There’s blood in my wee,’ I Then, a letter arrived in the There were no signs of carry out a cystoscopy. told Trevor, concerned. post with my test results. permanent bladder damage.

Accompanied by two nurses ‘I’ve never had that before.’

‘They’re worried about I’m so grateful to the medical and my husband, the doctor ‘It’s probably a water inconsistencies in my urine,’ I carefully inserted a long, scope staff for their speedy, thorough infection,’ he replied, finding told Trevor. treatment and stern advice camera into my bladder. some cystitis cream that my ‘I need to have an urgent about the health risks ‘My wife drinks so daughter had used once before. connected to fizzy drinks. much cola,’ Trevor told ‘Try this!’ he said.

After ten weeks of pain, the doctor.

Following the stress and worry, and ‘Do you think it cream instructions, numerous hospital visits and could be linked?’

I hoped the sleepless nights, I have been ‘ A ll fizzy drinks can infection would given the all clear. damage your health clear up at home.

Please take my experience as and will worsen Carrying on with a warning that drinking bladder infections,’ the my day, I made a carbonated drinks can worsen doctor said. homemade bladder infections and ‘I’m not surprised mocktail, drizzling dangerous inflammation, and you’ve got a terrible amaretto syrup over can cause a great deal of infection!’ he said. a glass of iced cola. physical and mental distress.

Examining the As the days No matter how tasty the Trevor used inside of my bladder, passed, the stinging bubbles are, they aren’t worth to tell me off the doctor told me to feeling when I went any health problems! look at the screen, to the toilet got far

G

WORDS BY NIA DALTON PHOTOS: SWNS, ALAMY AND GETTY

17

ws

Health W

e’ve all heard that an apple a day keeps the doctor away, but a new study has suggested that two apples may be even better.

Researchers at the University of Reading found that two apples every day could reduce a person’s risk of heart attack or stroke.

After 40 people with high cholesterol ate two large apples a day for eight weeks, researchers discovered it had lowered their levels of ‘bad’ cholesterol by almost four per cent.

Just two apples are thought to contain about a quarter of someone’s recommended intake of fibre a day.

Men’s health Q with Dr Clair Grainger

I think I’ve got a fungal toe nail infection.

How can I get rid of it? Jason, Norwich.

A toenail that is infected will slowly deteriorate over time and what might have started with a small spot under the nail could become thicker and crumbly.

A fungal infection can also spread across the toes without treatment so getting on top of this as soon as possible is key.

Luckily, if you are diagnosed with a fungal toe nail infection this can be treated with antifungal creams from the pharmacy or oral antifungal tablets from your doctor.

It can also be prevented by washing and drying hands and feet regularly, making sure your nails are trimmed and disinfecting your nail clippers after using them.

Wear sweat absorbing socks, shoes that breathe, and refresh your shoes regularly.

Women should also avoid using nail polish when you have an infection to prevent cross contamination between nails.

A

18

40,00 peopl 0 diagn e are every osed year

TRUE E S L A F r o Bloodcancers

1

83%...

That’s the percentage of people who have no idea where their first aid kit is at work. Protecting.co.uk found even more people don’t know what’s inside the kit.

English Tea Shop organic wellness teas, from £2.88, Amazon.

W

hether it’s a boost of energy or a calming detox, there is something for everyone with this range of wellness teas. Made with some of the most revitalising herbs, spices, fruits and flowers, theses eas make the erfect excuse for a bit of ‘me time’.

HEAL TH

TIP

2 3 4 5

There are different types of blood cancer.  True  False Blood cancer isn’t common.  True  False Unexplained weight loss is a symptom of blood cancer.  True  False You don’t always need treatment for blood cancer.  True  False Blood cancer is caused by faults in our DNA.  True  False

1 TRUE There are over

100 different types of cancer of the blood including myeloma and leukemia.

2 FALSE It’s now the fifth

most common type of cancer in the UK. 3 TRUE Other symptoms include tiredness, easy bruising and joint pain.

4 TRUE Some people may never need treatment and others won’t need it straight away.

5 TRUE All blood cancers

are caused by mutations in DNA.

WORDS: ROSIE CRASS PHOTOS: GETTY

Disclaimer: Medical advice provided is for interest only and should never be substituted for seeing a doctor or seeking medical advice. If you have specific medical concerns please seek advice from a qualified medical professional.

Two apples a day…

REAC

g, in d a e R m o fr , 9 2 , le il lv e M l ie n a D n e Wh ed… g n a ch fe li le o h w is h r, e st te a e m ca e b

WORDS BY HANNAH POON AND HOLLY SAWYER PHOTOS: SWNS

P

lay fighting with my brother, Jonathan, 30, my granddad George walked over with a wooden shield and baton.

‘Why not give it a go with these?’ he said.

‘And this one is just for you,’ he smiled at me, placing the shield on my arm.

My granddad George, who is sadly no longer with us, was my rock growing up.

He understood me more than anyone else – he understood what it’s like to have missing limbs.

You see, due to a medical condition called Amelia, I was only born with my left hand.

As a carpenter, he’d lost part of his hand so he always made

I never knew I was different 20

me things to make my life a little easier.

I had a great support system around me, with Granddad George, Granddad Arthur, my grandmothers and my parents, Kim and Ian, so I never really knew I was different.

It was only in my teens that I started to truly understand.

No one ever picked on me, but the kids at school used to ask questions.

Especially when I had on my NHS prosthetic arm.

‘I hate wearing it,’ I admitted to my mum.

Whilst I appreciated everything the NHS were doing, I hated the prosthetic arm.

They were heavy, clunky and highlighted what I was missing.

Soon, I stopped using them.

Instead, I learnt to accept my body.

I learnt how live a normal life with only one hand.

Then, when I started going to Reach’s week-long summer camp every year, everything changed for me.

The camp was for people with missing limbs so they could connect with others.

While there, I met some life-long friends who were a massive inspiration to me.

People with no arms at all were solely using their feet – it was remarkable.

While I could be myself at

the summer camp, I still suffered with shyness.

I didn’t want people asking me questions and judging me.

So, I got very good at hiding my hand – or lack of it.

As it was only missing from my wrist down, I could pop it in my pocket, and no one would be the wiser.

And that’s exactly what happened when I met my partner Harriet, 29.

It was 2009 and we were both out with friends who introduced us to each other.

We spent the whole night chatting away.

But I was worried she would be put off by my hand, so I kept it tucked away for the entire night.

However, when we got home, we started chatting online and I knew I had to tell her.

You should know, I’m missing my right hand, I typed out on the message.

I didn’t know how she would react, but I expected the worst.

Only, it didn’t bother her.

With all due respect, I don’t care, she told me. My boss has no legs, so it doesn’t faze me.

I couldn’t believe my luck and soon, we were official.

Harriet was so supportive over my hand and four years later at a Kickstarter event, I heard about Open Bionics.

They were a 3D printing service who were creating a

I hated the heavy prosthetic arms

It’s given me the upper hand

bionic arm.

I was familiar with bionic arms as they are worn a lot by characters in video games and sci-fi films.

As a huge fan of the genre, I was blown away.

And Open Bionics were looking for testers!

‘Apply!’ Harriet told me.

‘What have you got to lose?’

At first, the shyness I’d adopted over the years kicked in, but after a bit of spurring on from Harriet, I applied.

I didn’t think anything of it, but within a day, one of the co-founders, Joel, had replied.

Let’s meet up for coffee, he’d suggested to me.

I couldn’t believe it and the following week, I travelled down to Bristol to meet him.

And after just half-an-hour, Joel made me an official tester for the company.

‘We’d love to get your feedback to make the best possible arm,’ he told me.

I was completely touched and my family were so proud.

‘We always knew you’d do great things,’ my parents told me. And within a year, I’d

REAL LIFE

I’m so thankful

tested the first arm.

The technology was out of this world.

The fingers moved and I was easily able to pick things up.

Of course, there were things that could be improved, such as the weight and comfortability, but that was all part of the testing process.

Then, in January 2015, I jumped on a plane with Joel and his co-founder, Samantha, and headed for Las Vegas.

There, Open Bionics was officially launched and the first arm was shown to the world.

It was a mind-blowing experience – one I wish I could have shared with Harriet.

For years, I’d hid my hand in my pocket, but when I slipped on the bionic arm, I had a newfound confidence.

Standing in the middle of Las Vegas, I used my new arm to shake thousands of hands – something I never thought would be possible.

‘I wish you could see how amazing this is,’ I told Harriet.

‘I’m sure they’ll be lots of photos for me to see,’ she said.

When we arrived back in the

sion of the arm n lift up to eight os in weight. t can also run r 24-hours after nsistent usage.

However, hen Open ionics made a opy of the arm orn by the haracter Adam enson in the ideo game eus Ex, I was utterly amazed.

‘They’ve made all my I can do so many dreams come things now true,’ I laughed to Harriet, slipping on my cool new arm. , the arm My family loved it, too. derwent My Nanny Joyce is more testing fascinated by it and tells all her and soon a new one was friends about my ‘amazing created and ready to go. mechanical arm.’

Five years on, I’ve tested Since working with Open nearly ten arms.

Bionics, I’ve been fascinated Each one better than the last. with 3D printing and I’ve now Now, Open Bionics have opened my own company, released their ‘Hero Arm,’ Handy Dan’s 3D Prints. which is their best one yet.

I go to schools and hold It’s super lightweight and workshops about 3D printing. comfortable – it’s like wearing I show the kids all the a glove! amazing things they can do It’s been fantastic watching the Hero Arm evol For me, it’s been the little things that hav made all the difference.

Being able to open a door and hold a drink at t same time – bei able to help Harriet in the kitchen at dinne Whilst I’ve She always always pulled m has my back weight, it’s nice t be able to chop th vegetables now!

The current

and then at the last minute, I pull out the Hero Arm. ‘And when you’re really good, you can work on this!’

Open Bionics have completely changed my life and I’m so thankful for everything they’ve done.

I use the arm most days, but sometimes I choose not to.

Whilst I love talking to people and showing off the amazing work that Open Bionics do, sometimes I like to slip into the background.

When I wear the arm, people ask questions, so when I just have a few errands to do, I don’t wear it.

I’m now an official Bionic Hero for the brand and I get to travel the world showing off their amazing creations.

Last year I got to go to Japan, which was fantastic!

They’ve even partnered with Disney so there’s arms for young children, too.

As with everything, there will always be updates to the arm, but since it’s come into my life, it really has given me the upper hand.

Being supportive

H

arriet says: ‘When I first met Daniel, I didn’t know about his hand. When he told me, I really didn’t care.

My manager was missing his legs, so I was used to it. I understood why he didn’t like wearing the NHS arms and when we’d been dating for about four years, I found all his childhood ones under his bed at his parents’ house. It was kind of creepy. I knew when we heard about the bionic arm testing that he had to go for it and I’m so proud of everything he’s achieved.’

21

WORDS BY NIA DALTON PHOTOS: SWNS, @REAGANDOODLE AND GETTY ALWAYS CONSULT AN EXPERT IF YOU ARE PLANNING ON MAKING SIGNIFICANT CHANGES TO YOUR ANIMAL’S DIET OR ROUTINE

Bacon flavoured bubb machine, £11.99, ebay.co.uk

Dogs love popping bubbles, but most washing liquid bubbles aren’t pet-friendly.

These bacon scented bubble are irresistible and fun.

Best of all, they’re 100% non-toxic, tear free and safe for dogs and kids.

I only took the essentials on my recent weekend away!

ur Treat yoacon pup to bles! bubb

Sarah Whitehead, Warrington

ere’s Buddy having a run in the park!

Top tips to care for your pets in winter

C

ats, dogs, rabbits and rodents make great pets, but can be a little tricky to care for in the winter. To ensure your furry friends are well looked after, Dr Jessica May, UK lead vet at www.firstvet.com, shares her best tips for the colder months…

1. Hydration is key In the winter, the humidity in the air decreases, causing it to become drier.

When this happens, your pet needs more fluid than usual to regulate its health. Access to clean, fresh water at all times is key.

2. Monitor food intake It is important that all animals keep a healthy, consistent weight all year round as fluctuations can be hazardous. If your pet is less active in winter, slightly reduce their feed portions. Equally, if your pet is very active or lives outside, they’ll burn more calories in the cold, so be sure to increase their feed to avoid weight loss.

3. Wrap up warm If you are worried about your pet staying warm, try moving their bed or cage closer to a radiator or a source of warmth. When doing this, remember to regularly check that they’re not overheating. Always make sure they are sleeping in a draft-free area, too.

4.Grooming is a must After your pet has been outside, use a clean cloth to wipe down their feet, legs and stomach. Check their paws for dirt and debris, or compacted ice. Salt from the road can irritate their skin and paws s

Holly Sawyer, Bristol

PETHE OF TEEK W Meet our four-month-old rescue kitten Luna. She’s mischievous but loves a cuddle! We think she’s purrfect. Jason Booth, Derby

PET NEWS

Insta love

@reagandoodle Follow the adventures of Reagan the labradoodle and his toddler best friend Little Buddy. Reagan loves to lick human faces, nd believe it or no , pose for the camera. We can’t get enough of t ese adorable pictures!

My new 11-week-old Chorkie puppy Buster had taken to having a little ride on my granddaughter’s see-saw in the garden. Patricia Cordon, Cheltenham

My magical tabby cat Sabrina is 10 months old and so sweet. Carley Adair, Northern Ireland

23

o h w t o I’m n

K

world think they’re in a relationship with Jessica Davies, 26, from Cardiff? moved on to blogging and vlogging, soon building up a huge following online.

I wrote about anything from eminism and wellness to my xperience working mour model. started ing as a elance social edia manager, which is how I earned a living.

My modelling ays were pictures of hind me, and I’d shared my me online no regrets. pictures online catfish me t I didn’t over the w ugh, was that It all started when I those photos would come back was 18, studying sociology at to haunt me…

Cardiff University.

Back in 2012, I’d set up an Working part-time at a pub, Instagram account where I I soon realised pulling pints shared my was not going to pay the bills. modelling So I applied to modelling pictures as well as agencies in London, and by the personal pictures following year, I was working and selfies. as a glamour model, posing for But three years lad mags like Zoo. later, in 2015, I Often posing topless, I felt started getting completely comfortable, and strange messages. with £1,000 a shoot, it was Is this you? a stranger asked totally worth it. me on Instagram, attaching a I used the money to put link to a dating profile. myself through uni, and about Clicking the link, I was two years ago, when the horrified at what I saw… magazines folded, the The picture was of me alright modelling work dried up. I – from a topless photoshoot –

WORDS BY LAEA MARSHALL AND HOLLY SAWYER PHOTOS: SWNS

I’m used as bait!

S

at on the sofa one day, my phone pinged.

I love you, the message read. I want to have kids with you.

While words like these would make most women’s hearts skip a beat, my heart recoiled in horror.

I didn’t know this man – had never met him in my life!

Yet he seemed to know all about me – at least who he believed was me…

This wasn’t the first time I’d received a message like this, and by now, in early 2019, I knew exactly how to respond.

I’m really sorry, but I’m not who you think I am, I replied as politely as I could. I’m afraid you’ve been scammed.

You see, for the past four years, people have been using 24

but all the details had been made up.

Someone had created a profile with a fake name, age and location, using my picture!

This is not me,, I replied to the strange man, alarmed.

But we’ve been chatting for weeks, he responded, somewhat annoyed.

As it turned out, this man had been chatting online to someone pretending to be me – he really believed that we were in a relationship!

I soon worked out that he’d been catfished, and after explaining that to him, he eventually left me alone.

I was left feeling so violated.

I knew my pictures were out there, but I never imagined someone would be using them to trick unsuspecting men!

After that, I started getting more and more messages.

Whoever was doing this had a lot of time on their hands.

After a few more men messaged me, asking for a date – or sometimes money – I took to Facebook.

If anyone has seen me on chat rooms or dating websites, please know that it isn’t me, I wrote.

After that, men from all over the world started replying, saying they’d been chatting to me for ages and that I’d been sending them selfies!

Every time, I had to explain to them that it wasn’t me, and

I had to convince them it wasn’t me

o ou

K

REAL LIFE

My followers help me out

that they’d been catfished.

One guy became really aggressive when I told him, calling me all kinds of names.

Who do you think you are? he wrote.

Clicking into his profile, I saw he was a man in his 60s.

You’ve been scammed, I replied, hoping he’d go away.

I even had a guy from America message me, saying he’d sent thousands of pounds to someone in the Philippines, thinking it was me.

He believed we were in a relationship and had paid for flights for me to come see him!

I had to tell h catfished, and I bad for him.

Over the year thousands of m messages, think been chatting t or even months But what’s re is they’ve been c scammer on a d and then when Facebook or In accounts, they t same person.

These men o know me, beca my picture and to the personal created by the s Even after I’v the truth, they o to keep chattin they think they someone speci to keep the con I’ve told all m followers about profiles, and no help me spot th Here’s anoth friend will say, to another dati Many of thes been set up on F and Instagram

All the profiles I report them, these are fake people can easily just create another profile.

The problem is, when these profiles are made on dating websites like Tinder or Plenty of Fish, there’s nothing I can do.

I don’t have an account asking for money. with them, so I can’t Luckily, none of my report false profiles. followers fell for it.

Today, as disturbing as it is, I’m constantly having to I’ve kind of got used to it. post messages on Facebook I spend ages every day just and Twitter, reminding my replying to random men, breaking the news to them that followers that these profiles a not mine. they’ve been scammed.

But it can et personal.

Someone once set up an ofiles are name. onal glamour it all seem ad things ou want to t messages tached to

There’s nothing I can do about it

ad a y grandad. g is, that on my t was on nd I’d agged in it. is doing g their rk. of the men essage me heir 50s or ese men motionally they’re in me, often ing love. are easily ey’re not ine world. etty upset truth, and m. It’s a

strange feeling – I sometimes feel dirty knowing random men are doing God knows what with my pictures.

But after four years, this has become somewhat of a routine.

Still, it’s a huge invasion of my privacy, and there’s nothing I can do about it.

I can’t stop people from taking my pictures off the internet and doing what they want with them.

The men out there who are being catfished could maybe report it, but I’m just the one whose pictures are being used.

I’m the bait – and it’s out of my control.

I’ve considered giving up social media altogether, but then I think, why should I? I rely on it for my career, and I’m not going to stop just because some con artists are trying to take advantage.

My advice would be to both men and women.

To the women – don’t post pictures on the internet that you don’t want people to see.

And to the men out there – be aware of scammers.

25

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hrowing my keys on the coffee table, I was happy to be home.

It had been a long day at work at the end of June last year and I was looking forward to enjoying my evening and the weekend.

That night, I had planned to go to the bingo hall with my good friend Pauline, 57, but we had to cancel as she couldn’t make it.

We loved going on our bingo nights.

They were always good fun, the perfect place for a girls’ night out.

But I didn’t mind that the night out had been cancelled – it meant I could relax and have a nice night in with my boyfriend Iain, 59 – and still enjoy a few games of my favourite bingo, only online!

There was something so cos o t l i fro

the comfort of my own home.

I’d been a member of Pick Me Up! Bingo for over 10 years, and I have always enjoyed the variety of games and also catching up with friends in the chat rooms.

Iain wasn’t home yet so I set about making dinner.

With that done, I deposited a tenner and played a few games until Iain arrived.

When he got in, we enjoyed dinner, chatting about the day.

I said I was thankful it was almost the weekend.

Then he grumbled about working the night shift as he washed up.

‘You’ll be home before you know it,’ I told him.

Before heading for bed, I decided to have another game on Pick Me Up! Bingo. s i ottere o tt e

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house, I decided to spend 80p on a spin on my favourite slot game Jack In A Pot! I love the game, as there’s so much going on.

It’s really exciting, with lots of different features and you can even win free spins if you manage to collect four clover symbols in a spin.

I clicked spin and watched as the little symbols whizzed around until…

My laptop screen started flashing red.

What’s going on?

I thought ‘Iain!’ I yelled.

Then it stopped.

The numbers on the screen wouldn’t stop spinning.

I watched bemused. e ers rolle

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up until they froze…

‘What does that say?’ I said to Iain pointing at my balance. ‘£18,585,’ he gasped.

I squealed.

‘What is it?’ he asked so i worrie t

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‘I think I just won the jackpot!’ I cried The host in the chat room confirmed it – I’d won!

I couldn’t believe it.

Then I saw my balance, it was crazy.

All the other members of the chat room started sending

messages of congratulations when I told them, and w I started screaming.

‘I won, I won!’ I yelped.

After that I barely slept ffor the whole night!

The following morning, I called my daughter Amber, 26.

She was in America, studying to do her PhD. We’d both been saving for her to come home but she hadn’t been back in almost two years.

I missed her like mad but was so proud of her and what

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‘I’m buying you a ticket home,’ I told her, after revealing all about my surprise win.

As soon as the money was in my bank account, Amber booked her ticket.

She came home in autumn 2019 and we made the most of her visit by jetting off to Naples and Rome together.

It was amazing and we even bought a camper van to do some sightseeing

around Scotland.

Playing Pick Me Up! Bingo really is great fun and I still can’t believe my huge jackpot win.

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I have recommended Pick Me Up! Bingo to all of my friends and I still play every now and then. I loved our trip to Italy, and it was the perfect way to spend and share my huge Pick Me Up! Bingo win.

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Jam from Sunderland, has a stark warning for us all…

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aying a sheet of paper over the bed, I smiled as my first client of the day came in.

‘Alright love?’ I grinned, as Julie* plonked her handbag down.

‘Not too bad,’ she replied.

I was all ready for a busy week ahead at High Brow Bar, the eyebrow salon I’d started up back in 2014.

I loved everything beauty – waxing, plucking, and tinting – and felt so lucky to have landed on my feet.

As a single mum to three kids – Jaxon, 14, Nevaeh, 12, and Asa, eight – the job meant I could support them on my own.

But the best part about it was having a good old natter with my clients.

I had my regulars, who would always open up to me about what was going on in their lives.

I knew all about their families, jobs, and relationship troubles – and I felt honoured that they trusted me. Now, in

August last year, Julie, one of my regulars, had come in for a treatment.

Around my age, she had two young boys, and as mums, we always had a lot to talk about.

‘How are the boys?’ I ask carefully combing her brow Before she could answer though, Julie burst into tea ‘What’s wrong?’ I cried, setting down my comb.

‘I’ve had some terrible news,’ she replied.

Sitting down beside her, I pulled her in for a hug.

‘I went for a smear test last week, and I’ve been told I have abnormal cells,’ she said.

‘I have to go back for testing.’

My heart went out to her.

‘Oh you poor thing,’ I said.

‘I’m sure it will be OK.’ I tried to be positive for Julie’s sake, but deep down, I was shocked.

I’d always been good at attending my smear tests, never imagined something like this actually happening to someone I knew. To be honest, though, I hadn’t

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myself for not having had my smear test done sooner.

But here I was, sat in a hospital consultation room, being told I had cancer.

After that, I had to have another procedure to remove more cells from my cervix.

These were then sent to the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Newcastle for testing.

Once these results were back, I was told I needed to have a procedure to have part of my cervix removed.

Thankfully, I didn’t have to be put under anaesthetic for this, and it only lasted for a few hours.

Doctors also ran tests to see if the cancer had spread.

If it had, I faced months of gruelling chemotherapy and possibly radiotherapy.

I was allowed home the same day, and while I struggled with abdominal cramps and a bit of bleeding for a while afterwards, I felt so lucky.

It’s a small price to pay, I thought to myself.

All I could do now was pray that the cancer hadn’t spread.

I kept myself busy with work and the kids, and finally, on 4 December, I was called back to the hospital.

‘There are no signs of cancer,’ my doctor told me.

‘It hasn’t spread.’

I’d been given the all clear, and I burst into tears. That

I hated myself for not doing it sooner

WORDS BY LAEA MARSHALL AND LUCY BRYANT PHOTOS: SWNS *JULIE’S NAME HAS BEEN CHANGED.

been for a test in a while.

Setting up my business and taking care of the kids meant I just didn’t have the time.

Thinking back, I realised it had been five years since my last test.

Managing to calm her down, Julie headed off.

But she’d got me thinking…

Picking up my phone, I called my GP. ‘I’d like to book a smear test as soon as possible,’ I said.

Just two weeks later, I had my test done.

‘You should get your results in three weeks,’ I was told.

That wasn’t so bad, I thought to myself.

But three days later, I got a letter asking me to come into Sunderland Royal Hospital.

Fear welled up inside me.

Before I knew it, I was sat in front of a nurse.

‘We’ve found abnormal cells in your cervix,’ she said, explaining that I’d need to have a colposcopy.

‘Whatever you need to do,’ I mumbled, terrified and in complete shock.

A few hours later, my legs were placed in stirrups as she carried out the examination. I

o had to have a nch’ biopsy, where l samples of the mal cells in my cervix moved and sent away ng. streamed down my face as the nurse got to work – not because of the pain, but out of pure fear.

I’d never been in a situation like this before, and I had no idea what to expect.

‘We’ll have your results in about three weeks time,’ I was told.

It was the longest three weeks of my life – waiting was absolute torture, and I struggled to concentrate at work.

Finally, on 23 October, I was back for my test results.

Walking into the consultation room, there were four serious looking doctors waiting for me, and I knew then that this was bad.

‘Please, have a seat,’ one of them said.

I sat down without saying a word, my legs trembling.

‘I’m so sorry,’ another doctor went on.

‘You have cervical cancer.’

My mind went blank.

After the word ‘cancer’, I couldn’t hear anything else the doctors were saying.

I’m going to die, I thought.

Who will look after the kids?

My shock and fear quickly turned to anger, and I hated

night, I held my kids close to me and told them how much I loved them.

Having cervical cancer had shaken my bones to the core – it was a short experience, but the most horrific one of my life.

But it’s also changed my life for the better – I’m so grateful for everything now, and I want to help others.

I started off by sharing my story on Facebook in as much detail as possible.

I wrote about what was involved in a smear test, in the hope of reducing the stigma around having it done.

A small amount of discomfort is worth it if it ends up saving your life, I wrote.

Incredibly, it was shared over 4,000 times.

I’ve also been working with medical company Hologic to create a campaign around the importance of having regular smear tests.

I want to get the hashtag #dontfearthesmear trending.

Back at my salon, I’ve created business cards to give to my clients which read; I spend longer doing your brows than the time it takes for a smear test. Book yours now.

Thankfully, Julie was never diagnosed with cervical cancer, but now I want to help as many women as I can.

We’re so lucky that in this country, we can have our smear tests done for free – we have to make the most of this and not take our lives for granted.

Yes, having a smear test can be embarrassing, but I’d take that over everything I’ve had to endure in the last few months.

I feel like the luckiest girl alive, but I’m aware that other women may not be so lucky.

My smear test saved my life, and it can save yours, too.

Get involved

T

his Cervical Cancer Prevention Week from 20 to 26 January, Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust wants as many people as possible to know how they can reduce their risk of the disease and to educate others. You can get involved by holding your own awareness day or fundraising event, or if you’ve had your own experience with cervical cancer, by sharing your story on social media. Visit www.jostrust.org.uk for more information and ideas on how to get involved.

31

e

Her

Shevonne Waines, Burlington, couldn’t wait to bring her baby home, but it would be a long journey to get there…

WORDS BY HANNAH POON PHOTOS: SWNS

L

never happens! aying back in the So, we decided to carry on hospital bed, I couldn’t with the pregnancy. wait to meet my boy.

And when Henry was And 14 hours later, born in November 2017, it after one final push, we was all worth it. welcomed Henry into the But our happiness was world, weighing 8lb 3oz. short lived.

‘He’s perfect,’ my husband, Henry was born with an Ben, 35, beamed. imperforate anus, But it hadn’t been easy meaning that it hadn’t getting there. developed properly.

When I first found out I was ‘He will need to have an pregnant in February 2017, we operation,’ the doctor were over the moon. said, taking my precious Only, at our first scan, we newborn away from me. received some bad news.

And so, the following ‘Your baby’s bladder is full,’ day, he underwent a twothe doctor explained. hour operation to have the ‘Is that bad?’ Ben asked. anus corrected and have a ‘Bladder Outlet Obstruction l bag inserted. is very serious ’ h He was so nkfully, the warned. ‘It occ precious ration went when the ell and eight urethra is too ays later, we narrow or went home. blocked.

It was Your baby is wonderful and at risk of as we laid kidney and Henry in his cot lung issues.’ or the night, we Then, uldn’t belie things got lucky we w much worse. the first ‘If you carry night was awful. your pregnancy you risk Henry couldn’t settle and having a stillborn,’ he told us sympathetically. ‘I recommend noticed his breathing was very heavy. a termination.’

‘It’s the first night, it will We were told that most get better,’ Ben soothed, so babies with this problem do we tried to brush it off. not survive.

Only, over the next few So, we went home that night days, I knew something with a lot to think about. wasn’t right.

Then, two weeks later at our ‘His breathing isn’t next scan, something amazing getting better, Ben,’ I fretted happened for us.

And so, four days after ‘This is a miracle,’ the doctor bringing him home, we took smiled. ‘The bladder has Henry to the GP. completely emptied!’

‘You need to take him back We were quickly told this 32

He’s now two and don’t I know it!

doctor warned.

And once there, things went from bad to worse.

‘There’s something wrong with his lungs,’ the doctors at Hull Royal Hospital told us.

For the next ten days, they poked and prodded our little boy, desperate to find out what was wrong.

By this point, they had him hooked up to oxygen and then ected

diagnosis for him.

‘We think he has a rare lung abnormality called Long Segmented Tracheal Stenosis,’ the doctor explained. ‘It means his airway is only 1.5mm wide when it should be 6-8mm.

‘He also has two holes in his heart and his left pulmonary artery is wrapped around his already narrowed windpipe.’

We couldn’t believe what we were hearing and my mind raced to the beginning f my pregnancy.

It could lead to kidney and lung problems…

To confirm the

The journeys were tough He never saw us sad

AL LIFE

Worth every second of it

official diagnosis, little Henry would need to be transferred to Leeds Hospital.

‘You need to be prepared, he may not make the journey,’ we were told. ‘We’ll leave you alone,’ a doctor soothed.

As we kissed our precious boy, we couldn’t believe this might be goodbye.

‘Please hold on,’ I begged.

An hour later, we arrived at Leeds General Infirmary and he was diagnosed with Long Segmented Tracheal Stenosis and hooked up to a CPAP mask to help him breathe.

‘Great Ormond Street are the only hospital who can care for him now,’ a doctor said.

We were now in December and we were having a rare white Christmas.

All the airports were shut and there was no way of flying.

So, we piled into the ambulance and were blue lighted for five-anda-half hours down the M5 motorway.

‘It’s OK,’ I kept smiling at Henry.

I didn’t want him to see me sad. When we

I have to be super vigilant

arrived, Henry was rushed down to surgery the following day to have the two holes in his heart closed, his artery untangled, and his windpipe widened.

For ten gruelling hours, me and Ben waited for our boy to come out, praying that everything would be OK. Thankfully, the operation went well.

Henry’s health seemed to be stabilising, so in January 2018, with the help from the charity Lucy’s Air Ambulance, we were flown back to Leeds General Infirmary.

We’d have to go back to GOSH in two weeks’ time for further scans, but it meant that we could be closer to home.

Only, a week later, he had a respiratory arrest and was rushed to Intensive Care and hooked up to a ventilat ‘What is wrong with sobbed, unable to cont emotions any longer.

‘He’ll get through thi Ben soothed, but I could tell he was just as broken as I was.

For the next three weeks, doctors battled to save Henry’s life.

But they couldn’t stabilise him enough to move him from Intensive Care .

‘We need to get him back to GOSH,’ a docto warned. ‘There’s nothi

more we can do here.’

And so, in the March, we were flown back to London, where Henry was placed in Cardiac Intensive Care.

He needed stents fitted in his windpipe, which had to be made in the Czech Republic.

I hated seeing him like this, but we never let him see us cry.

Instead, we read to him every day and sung lullabies.

Then, in Easter, he underwent the twohour operation to have the biodegradable stents implanted, before having metal ones 10 weeks later.

But Henry was still really ill and doctors rushed to save him every few days.

The stents weren’t the answer and a stronger solution was needed.

‘His airways can still collapse,’ a doctor warned, and that’s when they decided on a tracheostomy tube.

‘The tube is hooked up to a ventilator and is inserted into his windpipe to help maintain his airways,’ the doctor told us.

By this point, we didn’t know

the long-term effects of Henry’s condition, but if it kept him alive, then that was all that mattered to us.

In the July, the stents were removed and the tracheal tube was inserted.

Little Henry was now attached to a portable ventilator 24-hours a day.

Immediately things started to get better.

Only, as a piece of machinery, the tracheal would sometimes stop working and doctors would have to rush around to save him.

Thankfully, however, within six weeks, Henry was moved from Cardiac Intensive Care, to start on his recovery.

As me and Ben were in hospital accommodation, we could always be on standby.

It was hard, especially when Ben had to go back to work after Henry came out of Cardiac ICU. He travelled back every weekend, but it wasn’t easy.

Then, after 14 months, in January 2019, Henry was allowed home.

Me and Ben had to be trained on how to look after him and the tracheal.

The ventilator where the tube is connected is kept in a rucksack, which I have to wear at all times when Ben is at work.

At first, I was terrified something bad would happen, but I knew I needed to give Henry an amazing childhood.

He’s now two and don’t we know it!

He loves running about, but as I’m attached to him through the rucksack, I have to keep up.

I have to be super vigilant, as if the machine stops working or he tugs the tube out, then his airways could collapse again. een told that he will of his illness, but it e time. s such a happy boy. e loves reading and ng outside.

Our Henry spent the rst 14 months of his ife in hospital and he’s been under general anaesthetic nearly 20 times.

There were so many moments here we nearly lost m, but every time he ed through. at’s why we now call roic Henry!

It was a tough 15 months in hospital

He is such a happy boy

33

WORDS BY NIA DALTON PHOTOS: ALMAY / GETTY /@KYLIEJENNER /@KHLOEKARDASHIAN

Online fa

N I M STOR P AT

Instagram has announced new policies to remove diet products – but why?

S

crolling through Mint and Bootea are just a few Instagram, you may of the herbal tea companies have seen petite, that claim to boost athletic girls, smiling metabolism, reduce bloating, and tensing in gym clothes, suppress appetite and leave holding a shaker bottle and a you feeling energised . brightly coloured box of tea.

But behind the perfectly Flogging the latest weight curated Instagram posts, the loss craze, these social influential stars are media influencers being criticised… and celebrities are Promoters have g n i x o t paid to promote been accused by Tea latest ‘detox’, ‘skinny’ experts of is theht-loss’ negatively and ‘flat tummy’ teas. eig o take affecting the w ‘ t And the body image and crazer social mental health of brands behind the teas are big their young ove edia business. followers and fans. m The hashtag And as a result, ‘#teatox’ has over 882k Instagram has taken a posts on Instagram, including stand against diet tea culture. the likes of billionaire stars The one billion user-strong Kylie Jenner and Cardi B. platform has announced new Flat Tummy Co, Skinny policies that will remove and

34

loss posts.

Since September, Instagram has been restricting posts for users under 18 years old that promote the use of certain weight loss products or cosmetic procedures that have an incentive to buy.

Under Instagram’s community guidelines, pos that make a ‘miraculous claim’ about certain diet products will no longer be allowed, and there is an added functionality to allow users to report the posts that don’t fall under the same guidelines.

A spokesperson for Instagram said: ‘We want Instagram to be a positive place for everyone that uses and this po ongoing w pressure th sometimes result of so media.’

The mov was suppo by activist a

promote detox tea.

Last year, Jameela tweeted images of Iggy Azalea, Khloe Kardashian and Amber Rose promoting these products, with the caption: ‘Give us the discount codes to your nutritionists, personal chefs, personal trainers

Celebrity influence

change in urine colour.

The herb increases bowel movement, which understandably, may leave centive people feeling lighter. hese A quick scroll through online y reviews for weight loss teas and ments is you’ll find several consumers oney. complaining of gas and star Kris bloating, loose and foulmitted her smelling stools and headaches. dren can Many users experience an a six-figure irregular menstrual cycle, too. e sponsored In 2015, detox tea brand ial media. nt interview, Bootea was blamed for a string of accidental pregnancies, the tea. dubbed ‘Bootea babies’, as its ds on what laxative effect can stop the eally is. If it’s contraceptive pill from eutical t’s something working effectively.

With these harmful side re going to drink, or effects, it’s no surprise that st, or put on your Instagram has taken action. y, [the price goes NHS medical director Kris said.

Professor Stephen Powis th million-dollar warned that paid-for ey-driven incentives, ot a surprise that Kim promotion of products, ashian has advertised including detox teas on social media sites, could have a ite-suppressing damaging impact on physical lollipops, or that Amber and mental health.

Rose has encouraged ‘The risks of drinking diet teas D i e t t e a quick-fix weightwhilst pregnant. c a n c ause loss far outweigh But what’s the benefits, and permanent actually in these advertising these diet teas? o r g a n d a m products Doctors have a and laxativege without a health dubbed these warning is products d e p e n d e n c y damaging and ‘laxatives’ because misleading,’ he says. many of them ‘Social media firms contain an ingredient have a duty to stamp out the called senna. practice of individuals and According to the NHS, companies using their senna is a natural laxative platform to target young made from the leaves and fruit people with products known to of the senna plant, and is used risk ill health,’ he furthers. to treat constipation.

Kitty Wallace, Trustee for Senna can irritate the the BDD Foundation, concurs: stomach lining and cause ‘The rise of celebrities and cramps, diarrhoea and a influencers promoting detox teas is having an increasingly damaging effect on the mental Money motives health of young people.’

‘The bombardment of these idealised body mages is fuelling a mental health and nxiety epidemic in oung people,’ she says.

Evidently, the toxicity f weight loss brands oes way beyond their axative effects.

With Instagram’s ower and influence, it’s opeful that the atform’s new strictions will h sitive impact on lnerable consum One thing’s fo this diet tea is certainly not a innocent hot b s and geons you

EXPERT ADVICE r Rekha Tailor, cosmetic doctor and D owner of cosmeticsclinic.com, answers our questions…

How does the rise of influencers impact consumer’s health?

People are more pressured with diet advice online every day and are regularly exposed to brands putting up ads via influencers under the guise of diet advice. Consumers take these advertisements as fact and believe they will help them lose weight quickly without having to change their lifestyle.

In order to lose weight safely, you must be monitored by a medical professional to ensure you aren’t putting too much pressure on vital organs. You simply cannot get this level of support from a social media platform.

How do diet teas pressure social media users to look a certain way?

Diet teas appear to specifically target younger millennials who are following celebrities. By using reality TV stars to advertise their products, they are insinuating that these teas give you a certain figure and help you lose weight.

In reality, these teas cause you to become dehydrated by using laxatives. This can cause bowel issues in the long run and does not result in permanent weight loss.

You actually risk weight gain as you will likely lose water and potentially muscle mass, rather than fat mass, therefore slowing your metabolism. This is the start of a dangerous cycle of yo-yo dieting.

NHS LIVE WELL, EAT WELL ollow the NHS’ five top tips already in the food when you Fchoices… to make healthier food buy it.

1. BASE YOUR MEALS ON CARBS Starchy carbohydrates should make up just over a third of the food you eat.

They include potatoes, bread, rice, pasta and cereals. Choose higher fibre or wholegrain varieties to help you feel fuller for longer.

2. EAT MORE FISH Fish is a good source of protein and contains many vitamins and minerals. Aim to eat at least 2 portions of fish a week, including at least 1 portion of oily fish. Oily fish are high in omega-3 fats, which may help prevent heart disease.

3. EAT LESS SALT Don’t eat more than 6g of salt a day. Eating too much salt can raise your blood

4. DON’T GET THIRSTY You need to drink plenty of fluids, approximately 8 glasses a day, to stop you getting dehydrated. Try to avoid soft and fizzy drinks.

Your total servings of fruit juice should be limited to a small glass a day.

5. DON’T SKIP BREAKFAST A healthy breakfast high in fibre and low in fat, sugar and salt can form part of a balanced diet, and can help you get the nutrients you need for good health.

Balanced diet

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Your telly TV treats

T ’ N DO ISS M The Great Pottery Throw Down, More 4 & Channel 4 This show, produced by the company behind GBBO, sees passionate potters compete to craft their very best creations. We started with 12 contestants, from all walks of life, and now the competition is really heating up. Hosted by Melanie Sykes and judged by master potter Keith Brymer Jones and award-winning ceramicist Sue Pryke, there is a potter of a week and lots of tricky challenges including hand-building an elaborate chess set and throwing tiny vases at the wheel.

Avenue 5, Sky One

PHOTOS: BBC, CHANNEL 4, SKY AND PA

Hugh Laurie stars in this science fiction comedy and takes to the skies as Ryan Clark, captain of the passenger space cruiser, Avenue 5. Captain Clark has to keep his crew in line and deliver a first-class voyage while making sure his passengers don’t die! Written by British writer Armando Lannucci (The Thick of It), it’s a quick-witted glimpse into the idea of space tourism – with some amazing special effects. Also stars Frozen’s Josh Gad as playboy billionaire Herman Judd.

David Jason’s Great British Inventions, More 4

Sir David Jason’s life-long fascination with engineering and mechanics will take us on a journey to discover the nation’s greatest inventions.

The multi award-winning actor is a qualified pilot and former mechanic who tinkers with rockets in his shed and steam engines in his back garden. In this series, Sir David sets out to discover the remarkable stories behind the nation’s world-changing inventions, from the jet engine and the hovercraft, to the light bulb and the tanks of World War One. David also learns about the inventors who have dedicated their lives, saved lives, and even died, during the pursuit of innovation.

5-page NETFLIX, AMAZON AMAZON, iPLAYER iP ER and more… more Now with 5 pa e weekly guide to NETFLIX 36

Best Home Cook, BBC One

In this series, queen of home cooking, Mary Berry, and Michelin starred chef Angela Harnett have teamed up with produce expert Chris Bavin to put talented cooks through the culinary ringer. There are two challenges to get through before the dreaded Eliminator round. Host Claudia Winkleman is on hand with encouragement.

There are triumphs and disasters – and plenty of inspiration if you can’t decide what to have for tea!

World’s Most Evil Killers, Sky Crime

In another episode of this gripping series, we discover the twisted world of serial killer Gary Ridgway. Known as the Green River Killer, Ridgway has confessed to murdering a staggering 71 teenage girls and women across Washington state through the 80s and 90s.

Most are believed to have been sex workers, who he would pick up in his car before strangling them and dumping their bodies.

Criminologists and psychologists explore the motives of this troubled man who was torn between an insatiable sexual appetite and his strong religious beliefs.

IN CINEMAS

Bad Boys For Life, in cinemas from Jan 17

It’s been 17 years since the second Bad Boys film, but our favourite detectives have reunited and are back for the third instalment. Will Smith and Martin Lawrence return as Mike Lowrey and Marcus Burnett, and together, they try to take down a Miami drug cartel. The best mates might be older – but are they any wiser? An explosive trailer promises all action and nostalgia, with Joey Pantaliano also returning as Captain Howard.

ALL SEA

To learn more about the work of Brunelcare, visit: www.brunelcare.org.uk 37

WORDS AND IMAGES: SWNS

houghtful Zane had Zane a plan Donaghy, eight, decided he wanted to do something special for his grandad Douglas Oram, 85, and his friends; who all live at Brunelcare’s Deerhurst Care Home in Bristol.

Zane wanted to send them all on a trip to the seaside and to raise the money, he wore shorts every day for the whole of 2019!

The dedicated grandson braved all weathers and even wore short pyjamas for 365 days from January 1, 2019, to make sure he had enough to get his grandad to the beach.

Douglas has been living Whatever with Frontotemporal the weather Dementia and receives full-time care.

Zane has smashed his goal.

His wife of 63 years, ‘I’m so very happy that Sheila, visits twice a week. myself and my friends can all Zane and his mum, Lucy, go to the seaside for the day visit as often as they can next Summer,’ Douglas says. together.

‘We are really looking ‘I just wanted to do something nice and send my forward to it! I think we’ll have fish and chips and grandad and his friends to the seaside,’ Zane says. ‘I like maybe even an ice-cream for wearing shorts but not when a nice dessert.’

Zane has received it’s freezing cold outside. I overwhelming support, have worn s lly from the wind, th m, Lucy, 44, rain and eve o was there in the snow l the way for I had to do him. it to give ‘I’m so my proud of him grandad for thinking the trip of of others and a lifetime!’ anting to do His initia mething nice target was omeone £500 but h Doing it for e says. ‘He made over £ Douglas has been so brave, Zane also did more wearing shorts in the fundraising along the way. rain and snow. He’s a He raised £343 from a determined young boy.’ charity bag packing visit at Zane is keen to continue Morrisons in Yate and fundraising in 2020 and is secured a further £450 at a already looking into ideas coffee afternoon at his local for him and his friends.

Baptist Church.  To donate visit JustGiving Grandad Douglas was and search over the moon to find out zanewearsshorts2019

Genius or

FUN

TOTALLY BONKERS? Sparkling wine jelly beans, £3, jellybelly.co.uk Toast any occasion with sparkling wine flavour jelly beans. All the flavour of a glass of bubbly with none of the alcohol. Add a touch of sparkle to any ecial Verdict: event.

GENIUS! Perfect for weddings!

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Work out which letter each number represents. When you’ve filled the grid, put the correct letters into the answer boxes at the bottom to spell out a word. We’ve given you four to start you off.

Answer on page 47.

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Baguette Amazon.co.uk Do you love bread so much that you want to sleep with it? Avoid crumbs with this 40-inch

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Boots made for snuggling!

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crowava e oots, £19.99, prezzybox.com The pinnacle of snuggle wear. Not only do they make your tootsies super toasty, but the boots release a e, thing vender cent to get you elaxed.

Crack it!

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t in w is th in k s r u o y r e ft a k o This week: Lo

W

ith winter well under way, it’s more important than ever that we look after our skin. But that doesn’t mean you need a 10 step morning and evening routine. Instead, you can do it with just four products from vegan beauty brand, Botanics Organic! Available from Boots.

AM:

STEP 1: Use Botanics Organic Refreshing Toning Spritz to wake up and revitalize tired skin within seconds. £7.99 STEP 2: Apply Botanics Organic Daily Facial Oil to the face to lock in moisture throughout the day and leave skin looking radiant

and smooth. £11.49

PM:

STEP 1

STEP 3: Massage the Botantics Organic Softening Cleanser onto dry skin to melt away daily grime and makeup.

Gently remove with a reusable cotton pad or flannel.

STEP 4: Unwind for a restful slumber with the calming scents of lavender, geranium and chamomile. Botanics Organic Overnight Facial Oil works in harmony with your skin’s natural nighttime process to help nourish and restore. £11.49

ay w a r p Ste m yound fro een a get scr ’t for k! dono blin t

You routinre doesn’ have to t be co

STEP 3 STEP 4

STEP 2

The skincare you need:

1.Cuticura Dry Skin Cream, £5, Superdrug

Specially formulated to make dry skin look and fee better. Powered by a unique 3-in-1 triple action complexion, this cream will soothe, restore and rehydrate dull skin. Enriched with zinc oxide, she butter and hydroviton, it will rejuvenate the skin leave it refreshingly hydrated.

1

2. True Skincare Certified organic facial o £13.50, Holland and Barrett Packed with na

WORDS BY HANNAH POON STOCK IMAGES: GETTY

Eye care ally top of our agenda this time of year, but it should be. With strong winds outside and high humidity inside, our eyes are likely to dry out. Nimesh Shah at Feel Good Contacts is here to help you look after your eyes this winter.  Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water will help stimulate tear production. If cold water isn’t tickling your fancy, try a nice hot drink such as herbal tea.  Increase your omega-3. You can find this in seafood, nuts, seeds and plant oils. Try and get it in at least once a week.  Try and blink more! When we’re glued to our screens, we often don’t blink enough. Get into the habit of blinking more often or follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20 second break and look at something 20 feet away.

ingredients and vitamins, these oils will help rejuvenate your skin. With a choice of three, this range has you covered. Simply apply two or three drops to clean and dry skin in the morning and/or evening. Instantly you’ll see a boost of radiance.

These luxurious oils will leave you feeling good as new. Choose from Rosehip & Rosemary, Avocado & Evening Primrose and Safflower & Basil.

2

3. Eucerin Hyaluron-Filler Instant Rejuvenation Mask, £6, Biocellulose Enriched with hyaluronic acid and Saponin, this mask gives an intense moisture which plumps the skin in just 10 minutes. A perfect quick fix – should you need it – for dry and dull winter skin. This 100% biodegradable mask will leave the skin soft smooth and supple, as well as providing anti-agein sit back, relax and indulge your skin!

3

4. Superdrug Vitamin C 10% Booster, £ Superdrug Designed to reduce dark spot

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revive the complexion, this booster will sh visible results in just four weeks. With Vita and antioxidant Ferulic Acid, it will protect skin ageing, whilst improving the appeara of fine lines, wrinkles and loss of firmness before or in conjunction with your moistur

5. Snow Cladonia Regenerating Night £9.99, Holland Barret Full of usnic acid, night cream will actively restore skin cells slow the ageing process. Formulated with Vitalayer® and SYN®- COLL, it will stimula collagen production and rehydrate skin for firmer and naturally ageless look. Wake up gorgeous morning glow like never before.

Do you need beauty advice? Write to hello@pickmeupmag.co.uk and we’ll try a

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t’s Chinese New Year! Wing Yip, the UK’s largest Oriental supermarket is encouraging foodies across the UK to head into the kitchen and experiment with traditional Chinese flavours.

Hoisin chicken wings

2020 i the Yea s the Ratr of !

Serves: 6

 24 chicken wings, mid and prime joints  120g Wing Yip Hoi Sin Sauce  2 tbsp Wing Yip Light Soy

1 2

Sauce  1 tsp Wing Yip Sesame Oil  1 tbsp shaohsing wine  1 spring onion, finely sliced  1 tbsp white sesame seeds

Pre-heat the oven to 180°c and line a large baking tray with foil.

In a large bowl mix together the hoi sin sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil and shaohsing wine. Once mixed, add the chicken wings and thoroughly coat them all in the sauce.

Lay the chicken wings on the baking tray on a single layer and cook for 20-25 minutes turning them once halfway through the cooking time. The wings should be nicely browned all over and cooked so that the juices run clear.

Remove the wings from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes. Just before serving sprinkle over the spring onion and sesame seeds and then serve.

While we try to ensure all recipes work, we cannot take responsibility for their success. IMAGES: WWW.WINGYIP.COM, GETTY

3 4

Chineseorange chicken Serves: 3 - 4

 2 large chicken breasts, cut into large even-sized chunks  1 tbsp shaohsing wine  1 tbsp Wing Yip Light Soy Sauce  1 tsp garlic, minced  2 tsp ginger, minced  1 egg, lightly beaten  3 tbsp cornflour  1 tbsp coriander, roughly chopped  1 tsp white sesame seeds  1 tsp black sesame seeds

Mix together the 1 shaohsing wine, soy sauce, garlic and ginger and then add the chicken. Coat the chicken well with the mixture and then cover and refrigerate for one hour or overnight.

Add the lightly beaten egg to the chicken mixture and mix well.

Place the cornflour into a sealable bag and then drain off each piece of chicken from the wet mixture and add to the cornflour. Seal the bag and shake well to coat each piece of chicken with cornflour.

Heat the vegetable oil in a fryer, or a wok, to 180°c using a thermometer to check. Fry the chicken in batches if necessary for 3-4 minutes until the coating is

2 3

t a Tref the o k e e w 40

4

 Vegetable oil for deep frying FOR THE SAUCE:  4 tbsp orange juice, freshly squeezed  3 tsp caster sugar  1 tsp Wing Yip Light Soy Sauce  2-3 drops Wing Yip Sesame Oil  60ml chicken stock  1 tsp cornflour crispy and golden brown.

Remove from the oil using a slotted spoon and place onto kitchen paper to absorb any excess. If cooking more than 2 batches, keep the chicken warm in a pre-heated oven at 150°c.

Whilst the chicken is frying, heat a wok over a low heat and combine all of the sauce ingredients. Stir the sauce until it thickens and bubbles gently.

Once all of the chicken has been cooked, turn up the heat on the sauce to high and add the chicken.

Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until all of the chicken has been coated evenly with the sauce. Serve immediately and sprinkle over with sesame seeds and coriander.

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Chineser is New Yeaated celebr uary on Jan 25

Spicy jackfruit and pineapple skewers  1 tin young jackfruit, 300g drained weight  300g pineapple, cut into 2cm cubes (18 pieces in total)  1 tbsp vegetable oil FOR THE MARINADE / COATING SAUCE:  2 tbsp Wing Yip Light Soy Sauce  1-2 tbsp Mai Siam Sriracha Sauce, depending on how spicy you want them  1∕2 tsp Wing Yip Sesame Oil YOU WILL ALSO NEED:  1 tsp white sesame seeds  6 small skewers

1 2

Soak the skewers in cold water for at least 1 hour before assembling.

Drain the jackfruit and cut any large chunks in half so that you have 12 pieces. Mix together the marinade ingredients and then add the jackfruit and pineapple. Mix well to ensure all of the pieces are evenly coated.

Starting with the pineapple, thread the pineapple and jackfruit onto the skewers so that

3

Makes: 6

you have 3 pieces of pineapple and 2 pieces of jackfruit per skewer.

Heat a frying or griddle pan over a medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. When the oil is hot, lay the skewers carefully in the pan and cook for 2 minutes on each side until they have started to caramelise and are hot.

Sprinkle sesame seeds over the pineapple and jackfruit skewers and then serve immediately.

Perfect for vegans!

4 5

Chinese sweet &spicy pork meatballs Makes: 20

FOR THE MEATBALLS:  450g pork mince  1 tbsp corn starch  1 tsp ginger, minced  1 tbsp garlic, minced  2 tsp light brown sugar  2 tsp Wing Yip Light Soy sauce  1 tsp five-spice powder  Vegetable oil for deep frying FOR THE SAUCE  3 tbsp Wing Yip Light Soy Sauce  1 tbsp Wing Yip Dark Soy Sauce  3 tbsp Wing Yip Hoi Sin Sauce  1 tsp rice vinegar  3 tbsp Mai Siam Sriracha Sauce  1 tsp light brown sugar  1 tsp Wing Yip Sesame Oil

For more inspiration visit www.wingyip.com

FOR THE GARNISH  2 spring onions, thinly sliced  2 tsp white sesame seeds

1

In a large bowl combine the pork mince, corn starch, ginger, garlic, sugar, soy sauce and five-spice powder and mix well.

It is best to use your hands to do this to ensure that the spices are evenly mixed.

Roll 1 1∕2 tbsp pork mince into a ball and continue until you’ve used all of the mixture. You should make around 20 balls.

Heat a deep fryer or a wok or saucepan with oil to 180°c. Once hot, fry the meatballs for 3-4 minutes until dark golden brown in colour and cooked through.

Alternatively, heat 1 tbsp of oil in a frying pan and cook the meatballs in batches for 8-10 minutes or until browned on all sides.

To make the sauce, combine all ingredients in a wok and heat gently until the sauce comes together. Reduce the amount of sriracha sauce if you don’t want a spicy sauce.

Once the sauce has come together and the meatballs are hot, add the meatballs to the sauce and stir well to ensure the meatballs are thoroughly coated. Continue to heat until the sauce has reduced to a glaze and then serve.

Sprinkle over the spring onions and sesame seeds to garnish.

For canapes, the meatballs could be served on spoons or toothpicks.

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41

O

Weeks away from being married, a young couple were executed on a beach…

WORDS BY GAIL SHORTLAND IMAGES: FACEBOOK, SONOMA COUNTY SHERRIFF’S OFFICE AND GUNMEMORIAL.ORG

T

he secluded California beach was an idyllic spot for a couple who loved nature.

Lindsay Cutshall, 22, and Jason Allen, 26, tucked up inside their sleeping bags on the sand and listened to the waves lapping the grey shore.

The religious couple talked about their wedding day – which was only weeks away – and read their bible as they marvelled at the view.

Just earlier, they’d written in a visitor’s log in a shack on the beach.

As I stir this mac and cheese, I think to myself, ‘What a wonderful life,’ Jason wrote. I’ve just spent two awesome days with my fiancée, Lindsay. Can life ever be so perfect? Only with a person who is so great. God gives me this privilege in life, and He has given me a wonderful woman to enjoy it.

Lindsay was just as happy.

The sun is going down in the horizon, she wrote.

All I see is the beams shining on the cliff face. And I know that God is awesome. I look around and I see his creation all around.

Jason, from Michigan, joked to his family that it was unlikely he’d marry, as he couldn’t imagine meeting a girl who would join him camping – then he me Lindsay from Ohio.

They were engaged just six weeks.

Now, it was August 2004, and the couple had spent the summer working at the Christian outdoor adventure camp Rock-N-Water in California.

They were counsellors and water rafting guides. With

42

their wedding just weeks away, Lindsay had bought her white beaded gown, adorned with pink flowers.

Her dad was a pastor and was officiating the day.

But before finishing their summer jobs and heading back to Ohio to finish wedding planning, the couple decided to spend the weekend exploring the north California coast.

They packed up Lindsay’s car and started a three-day tour.

After stopping at Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz along the way, they found themselves in the quiet sleepy town of Jenner on August 14.

It was a Saturday night an the local hotel was full.

It’s believed that’s why they’d set up camp on the local Fish Head Beach.

Camping was prohibited, but it was just for one night.

But the following Monday, they didn’t appear for work and their worried families hadn’t heard from them.

On August 16, a missing person’s report was filed.

By coincidence, two days later, a helicopter was sent up by police to search for a missing man who was stuck on a cliff near Jenner.

From the air, the

Jason and Lindsay were weeks away from getting married when they met their fate on a beach

They loved being outdoors

search team spotted two bodies in bloodstained sleeping bags down on Fish Head Beach.

Lindsay and Jason were found dead.

Both had been shot at close range in the head with a rifle.

There was no sign of sexual assault or robbery – Lindsay was still wearing her jewellery.

Police struggled to find a motive to explain why anyone would shoot the young couple

in cold blood.

Their violent murders shocked the quiet area.

Investigators questioned drifters who slept on the beach and even analysed graffiti.

Officers went door-to-door looking for the unusual Marlin rifle that was used – a gun popular with hunters.

Even a $50,000 reward brought no leads.

For over a decade, their grieving families had no answers.

They found Shaun was a comfort in their twisted hunter faith and believed the couple were both asleep when they were shot.

A memorial stone cross was secured on the rocks overlooking the beach.

Then on March 24, 2017, a 911 call was made from nearby Forestville, reporting a fatal bloody shooting.

When officers

O KILL He made his own weapons shouldn’t have been there and that he went back to his car for a gun.

‘That’s when I snapped. I was like ‘Oh my god, I’m just going to start killing people,’’ he told officers.

Later adding that; ‘I s gonna kill them out spite.’

Shaun returned and shot them both dead.

He directed police to a soda can stashed in a bush nearby, holding the shell asings that he’d ected from the scene of me.

Shaun had actually been a suspect at the time of the double murder.

He’d been found a week after the killings nearby with a loaded gun in his pocket.

But it didn’t match the weapon used to kill the couple – Shaun had already got his dad to get rid of that.

Shaun’s father would later commit suicide, seemingly weighed down by the guilt that he’d been part of covering something up.

In June 2019, Shaun, then

Mak i of a ng

Murdered out of spite arrived, they found Shamus Gallon, 36, dead from gunshot wounds.

They arrested his brother Shaun, then 38.

Shaun admitted he’d killed his brother.

He had a long dangerous criminal record and had served time in prison for firing an arrow at two men through a car roof in 2009.

Shaun was a selfconfessed survivalist who often took photos of himself with homemade bows.

He’d poach animals, chop them up and leave pieces around the house.

Shaun confessed that without warning, he’d fetched a gun that he’d built himself and had walked upstairs and shot his brother in the chest and neck.

When asked why, he explained he had held a grudge

ever since Sha had punched him in early childhood.

Police also connected Shaun to a bombing in 2004 – just months before the Jenner Beach Murders.

It was clear Shaun had uncontrollable anger and a disregard for life.

Then, Shaun confessed to killing Lindsay and Jason 13 years earlier.

Shaun said he’d been driving along feeling upset about his life.

Shaun would later insist that he was mentally fine until he’d taken excessive amounts of the drug LSD in 2001 that had left him tormented with ‘voices and demons.’

He’d used a flashlight on the beach and saw Lindsay and Jason sleeping.

He told officers they

They could see blood from the air

Brother Shamus

40, pleaded no contest to murdering Lindsay, Jason, and his brother Shamus.

Contrary to what they’d believed, Lindsay was not asleep when she was killed.

Prosecutors played an audio of Gallon’s confession, in which he described shooting Jason first, prompting Lindsay to sit up for a moment in alarm, before being gunned down, too.

‘I saw two people asleep in sleeping bags, ust layin’ there asleep,’ he told the detective. ‘I just made myself do it … like, I don’t, I don’t know what I was thinking at the time.’

Shaun described picking up the spent shell casings and thought about digging the bullets out of the bodies, but instead just drove away.

Shaun was sentenced to three life sentences, plus more than 94 years for other crimes, including the planting of a car bomb in 2004.

He will never get parole.

‘It’s crystal clear to me you deserve to spend the rest of your life in prison and then some,’ the judge said.

Lindsay’s mum, Kathy Cutshall held up her late daughter’s wedding dress.

‘I brought this because it is empty,’ she told him. ‘It represents what they lost.’

Her husband, Chris, brought one of his daughter’s hair ties, still with strands of her hair tangled in it.

And her gold ring, which he wears on his little finger.

‘To think I was just 3½ weeks away from officiating that wedding,’ he said. ‘But then pure evil walked down on that beach and came upon two sleeping people.

‘I’m a man with a broken heart, and I always will be, and I’m OK with that.

Lindsay’s worth it…’

A letter from Jason’s parents was read out in court.

Shaun Gallon broke our hearts beyond description, it said. Our family changed forever that horrible night.

The families of Lindsay and Jason finally had answers, but they wouldn’t bring back the future the beloved couple had planned.

That night they’d gone to sleep so grateful that they’d found each other – but evil had found them, too.

43

ross it!

JUST FOR

FUN

Solve the puzzle to find a word. Fit the words back in the grid and the letters in the highlighted squares spell out the answer. We’ve put in one word to help.

Answer on page 47.

8

5

4

s ’ k e e w t x e n n I

7

I SPENT OUR WEDDING FUND ON

8

7

3 3

SAVING THE DOG!

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4 5

6

4 8

8

8 5

6

7

4 3 7

6

3

C O L U M N 3 7

3 letters Ass Egg His Ice Keg Sue

4 letters Cage Isle Liar Mere

5 letters Abhor Ripen Whelk

6 letters Column Milieu Repine Sporty

7 letters Applaud Couture Integer Newborn Pelican

FINALLY SEE LEFT IN A C

8 letters Exorcist Garbanzo Narcotic Registry Yarmulke

A ATTACKER WALKED FREE

Sudoku!

To solve the puzzle, each 3 x 3 box, each column and each row must contain the numbers 1 to 9. Solve the puzzle, then read down the numbers in the highlighted squares for the answer. Answer on page 47.

7

9 5 7 9 8 2 5 2 8 4 5 3 7 6 9 7 9 5 4 8 3 8 1

3 1 5 6

4

9

THE TWO KIDS I WAS

PHOTOS: SWNS

4

NEVER MEANT TO HAVE

On Sale THURS 23 JAN

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THIS W E En Resolvi K g

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Improve your life in just a week!

Remember harmony

E

very couple has their arguments, but it’s how we resolve those arguments that can determine the health of our relationships. Experts from self-help community website Powerofpositivity.com are on hand to help us do just that.

Don’t sweat the small stuff

S

o one goes into a N relationship wanting to have arguments.

When you’re arguing with your partner, try to remember that they’re not having any more fun than you are – they want harmony just as much as you do.

Don’t let the argument blind you into thinking that your partner is fighting against you for peace.

1

ometimes, not everything requires a serious discussion or argument to get over a conflic Many arguments can be resolved by just letting go.

Things like forgetting to pick up dirty clothes off the floor or simply disagreei relationship-ending conflict

4

Change your expectations

our partner may ha Ydifferent expectations that to yours, which may

lead to your expectations not being met.

Having an honest conversation about what you expect from the relationship will prevent confusion and stop a majority of arguments.

Accept your partner’s response

CTIVE FIND PERSPE

on’t demand D a different response – accept

Learn acceptance

STOCK PHOTOS: GETTY

earning and practising acceptance is one Larguments of the major things that can help us end in a relationship.

2

The other person is often coming from their own specific background with their own unique point of view – and you don’t have to want to change their mind.

Learning to accept them for who they are can put an end to many unnecessary arguments.

46

3

ractise patience

P

atience is a virtue for a reason.

When you don’t ave enough patience r your partner, you gin to snap or allow rself to give in to flict where there sn’t need to be any. hen you learn ience, understanding our partner will ecome second ature, rather than rguing with them.

Remember, the more atience you have with ur partner, the more ey’ll have with you.

5

6

what your partner is saying to you without trying to get them to change.

Once you learn how to accept what they’re saying, the argument can come to an end because you now know exactly what they really meant.

7

Leave it behind you nce an argument has ODon’t ended, it’s done. bring it up two

weeks later to remind your partner of what they did wrong or to make them feel guilty about it.

If you constantly rehash every fight you’ve ever , there will be ver-ending s u euding and zero c Fo ilding ime for love u on bfun andure and fun. Leave a py fut your arguments r p e n the past, and a h h toget egin to move ward together.

Thisweek’spuzzle answers!

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47

D O O F

The Ginsters Vegan Quorn Pasty, £1.80, supermarkets nationwide.

OUR

That nation’s favourite pasty maker has teamed up with Quorn to create a vegan alternative to the beloved Cornish pasty.

Wrapped in a light puff pastry, marinated Quorn pieces are combined with potato, onion and swede.

K N I R D alo Top trawbe Chees Tub, £5 esco. ust 360 calories he entire tub, this new flavour of Halo Top ce cream is almost too good to be true. The ub includes doughy heesecake pieces and a elicious biscuit swirl.

n ou ern Poppers, 5 (60g), nsbury’s. in fibre and e with tainable otein, these te-sized savoury nacks are coated a yummy fried rispy breadcrumb coating.

GO!

Dr.Oetker Ristorante actose free pizzas 3.69, Sainsbury’s and Ocado.

Using a variety o different lactose free cheeses on top of a gluten free pizza base, Dr. Oetker have launched two brand new lactose-free pizza options.

STRYYK range, £1 Ocado.

If you’re still committed to dry January, then these non-alcoholic spirits could make the perfect alternative. The experts at STRYYK have reconstructed the flavours of rum, gin and vodka to create three booze free options.

GO THE WRITE WAY

23 January marks National Reading Day, s rounded up some of the best literary locat to visit, based on our country’s finest write

Charles Dickens Museum - London STOCK IMAGES: GETTY

Step back in time for a visit to this charming museum, where you’ll enjoy the world’s largest collection relating to Dickens, including letters, pictures, first editions, furniture, memorabilia and lovingly restored rooms.

The famous novelist lived here from 1837 to 1839, and it was at this very house that he wrote his masterpiece Oliver Twist, achieving international recognition as one of Britain’s best storytellers.

Immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this family home, and don’t miss the regular temporary exhibitions.  From £4.50  dickensmuseum.com 48

Shakespeare’s Globe - London Step inside this recreation of William Shakespeare’s iconic Globe theatre and imagine it as it would have been at the centre of London’s notorious bankside entertainment district way back in the 16th Century.

Throughout the year, expert guides bring this extraordinary theatre to life with stories of the building’s rich history.

Enjoy exciting live demonstrations including Elizabethan dressings and printing the famous playwright’s work using a 17th Century printing press.  From £10  www.shakespearesglobe.com

Lee Kum Kee Sesame Wok O £2.29, Tesco and Sainsbury’s.

Adding some sizzle to the nation’s woks, this new oil will ensure all your stir-fries are cooked to absolute perfection!

Jamaica Inn - Launceston, Cornwall Immortalised in Daphne du Maurier’s tale of smugglers, rogues and pirates, this historic house has welcomed travellers crossing Bodmin Moor for nearly 300 years.

Full of legend, mystery, romance and even (according to folklore) the odd friendly spirit, the Jamaica Inn is set in one of the most evocative moorland locations in the country.

It’s also home to an awardwinning restaurant and hotel, great ales, a souvenir shop and the fascinating Smugglers’ Museum, whe t l of murderers a villains are brought to life  Museum tickets from £2.95  www. jamaicainn. co.uk

7 days of hope & happiness with Claire Petulengro

ch re n ok

ARIES

TAURUS

GEMINI

CANCER

You’re only worried, because others placed doubt. Focus on what you know to be fact, not what others think will be the pitfalls. If you can focus on what you want the end result to be, not just what the possible pitfalls are, you’ll be on the road to success. Family tell lies to cover their tracks, but this is one week, you’d be better to watch, not comment. Not yet.

Jealousy is evident. Could it be that you’re experiencing a bit of the green eyed monster? I hope not. You start to recognise who is making you feel inferior and you learn that you don’t want to be around toxic people. The next step is removing yourself from their influence. You can do this with events that occur on Friday, Taurus – and when Saturn most definitely has your back.

We become a grown up when we realise we have the right, not only to be right, but also to be wrong.

Take time out to relish all of the experiences that life has brought your way so far, Gemini. Draw on the strengths this has already given you. Doing so can help you make your bravest decision yet. You can improve on several areas of your life if you do. You’ve got this Gemini!

The great thing in this world is not where we are standing, but in what direction we are moving. It is your home life that the stars are shining on. You realise what you need to do to own your life again.

Expect big decisions, which were beyond even your wildest dreams. Someone else has made it so. You’re no longer alone, Cancer.

Embrace this. Believe in yourself, Cancer!

Call: 09058 170 710*

Call: 09058 170 711*

Call: 09058 170 712*

Call: 09058 170 713*

LEO

VIRGO

LIBRA

SCORPIO

A difficult influence in your life is making it harder for you to stay in a calm and unpredictable mood. Don’t forget what sign you are and how good you are at fighting for and getting what you want. It seems that a younger person who was not on side, soon will be. Watch and wait, Leo, you’re in for a tremendous surprise. You will be extremely happy when it finally comes!

I know you miss a person who taught you so much, but certain influences in our life are supposed to only pass us by. Try to remember that your life was always going to be an unpredictable one at this stage. Ride the wave and enjoy the experiences.

There is much to be gained personally and professionally, if you do.

Go out and enjoy yourself Virgo, and good luck!

Changes which have occurred in your personal life are not sitting well with you.

Your stars tell me that you are not happy with the lack of control you now have. Try to talk to close ones before Tuesday, or you could end up exhibiting a knee jerk reaction, which will take you even further off course.

Stand your ground. Admit your dreams, my friend.

Don’t let anyone get you down, you’ve got this.

Family make it hard for you to tell them the truth. You may even find yourself going out of your way in order to avoid those you think may ask you personal questions. Travel plans you make now mark the beginning of a really exciting time for you personally. New attractions make for a better social life. Take it slow. Time is on your side more than you know.

Call: 09058 170 714*

Call: 09058 170 715*

Call: 09058 170 716*

Call: 09058 170 717*

SAGITTARIUS

CAPRICORN

AQUARIUS

PISCES

With confidence, you have won before you’ve started, Sagittarius. You thought you did not know what or who you want, but that all changes this week.

Mercury gives you the ability to ask the right questions and to get honest answers, so make sure you take full advantage. Conversations with family, reveal a liar in your circle. Share your information with caution.

Are you remembering the past as it was, or as you wish it cold have been?

Make sure you are not being influenced by those who are putting their own needs before yours. Offers you get linking to education from Monday, opens up a whole new world of possibilities for you. Aries promise you a better professional life, if you follow their advice.

Should you listen, you’ll be pleased with the results.

Try not to tell tales on others or you could be labelled as the source for the stress, which is evident. The planets suggest arguments which you may be blamed for. Keep out of dramas which don’t directly involve you. Someone is looking for a scapegoat. Use Wednesday to make that call you’ve been putting off for weeks now. The stars are behind you for positive results if you do.

Believe you can this week and you’re half way there Pisces. Mistakes in work and with cash are likely. Try to keep an eye on what you’re spending. You’ll miss out on the opportunity and flexibility your love life offers you if you don’t, my friend. Gemini’s can keep that secret which is causing you such anxiety. Seek them out. They know more than you think! Be brave, be strong – you’ve got this.

Call: 09058 170 718*

Call: 09058 170 719*

Call: 09058 170 720*

Call: 09058 170 721*

21 March–20 April

24 July–23 Aug

23 Nov–21 Dec

IMAGES: GETTY

www.theastrologyroom.com

21 April–21 May

24 Aug–23 Sept

22 Dec–20 Jan

22 May–21 June

24 Sept–23 Oct

21 Jan–19 Feb

22 June–23 July

24 Oct–22 Nov

20 Feb–20 March

*Starlines updated every Thursday. Calls cost 80p per min plus your telephone company’s network access charge and last approx 4 mins. Callers must be 18+.

You must have bill payer’s permission. SP: Spoke 0333 202 3390.

49

FE

BEACH! She said yes!

WORDS BY NIA DALTON AND HARRIET ROSE-GALE PHOTOS: SWNS AND GETTY

be to d te n a w e h ew n k , m a h g in m ir B m tefan Cahill, 25, fro … n io st e u q e th d e p p o p e h n e h original w grateful and generous, such a

olling the bowling ball down the alley, I cheered as the pins knocked down.

‘It’s a strike!’ I said.

‘You got lucky!’ Heidi, then 19, laughed.

It was the start of 2015, and we were on our first date.

I’d been introduced to Heidi through friends on a night out.

The moment I met her, I knew she was someone special.

Soon, Heidi and I had made it official, and after two years, we moved in together.

‘Let’s go away for the weekend,’ I said to Heidi one day, wanting to take her to Brean Down where I grew up.

Swinging Heidi’s hand, we walked across Brean seafront eating fish and chips.

‘I used to love watching that sand artist,’ I said, pointing to the beach.

‘Let’s see what he’s making!’

Heidi said fascinated.

We watched with onlookers as he created a castle.

Nostalgia flooded through my body.

‘It’s amazing,’ Heidi said, impressed.

For years after, little getaways to Brean became our downtime.

Every trip, we’d visit the sand artist and see his latest masterpiece.

A year ago, I was having a rough time 50

happy to do it! Simon replied.

Phase one complete!

Now I just needed to get Heidi to the perfect spot and capture it on camera…

‘We’ll tell Heidi that I’m going to join you to the hill because I want to try out the drone,’ Chris said.

‘Let’s hope it works!’ I said, organising for us to go to Brean for the weekend in August.

With no suspicions, Heidi thought it was a normal getaway.

‘I’m just heading out to see a friend from work,’ I told Heidi. ‘He’s down in Brean for the day.’

Sneaking off, I went to see Simon’s progress.

‘It looks amazing!’ I said in awe as I watched him start to spell out the words.

‘You’re the first person I’ve done this for,’ Simon chuckled.

‘Please take some money for i ’ I asked him. ‘I insist.’

‘I don’t want the money, but it would be Sand artist reat to buy a new rake,’ imon said.

I gave Simon some money for a rake, and e decided to donate he rest to charity.

‘The Peter Tatchell Foundation is close to my heart!’ he said.

Simon was so

training to be a paramedic.

Heidi was there for me – she was the best support.

‘You really are my rock,’ I told her one evening.

‘We’re a team,’ Heidi said.

In that moment, I knew she was the one!

‘So, I’ve been thinking,’ I said to my brother, Chris, 32.

‘I want to propose to Heidi.’

‘No way! Congrats mate,’ Chris said.

‘It’s got to be original,’ I said.

Searching through Facebook, I hunted down the sand artist from Brean.

Simon Beck – that’s him!

I’ve got an idea, and I wondered if you’d be able to help… I typed in a message.

I want to propose to Heidi using your sand art.

Waiting apprehensively, I prayed that he’d be up for it.

Sounds great! Yeah, I’ll be

Heidi didn’t want to go there

nice guy.

Racing back to meet Heidi, it was time to take her to the viewpoint and propose.

‘Let’s go to the beach!’ I said.

‘But it rained yesterday, and it’s so windy,’ she moaned.

This is going to be hard work.

‘C’mon, I really want to try out the drone,’ Chris said.

‘Fine!’ she sighed.

Trekking up to the top of the hill, I took Heidi to the perfect spot to watch Simon.

‘I wonder what he’s making,’ I turned to Heidi, full of nerves.

‘I’m not sure,’ Heidi said.

Simon had raked ‘Will you marry me He..’ in the sand.

And suddenly, Heidi clicked.

‘Are you serious?’ she cried.

Before she turned around, I was already down on one knee.

‘Yes!’ she said emotionally.

I placed the sparkling ring on her finger.

‘I can’t believe you did this for me!’ she wept.

‘Congrats!’ Chris shouted.

‘I couldn’t have done it without you!’ I said to Chris.

Thanks to my friend William loaning me the drone, we captured the moment forever.

Months on, Heidi and I are saving up to plan the wedding.

‘I want us to get married quick!’ Heidi says.

Bring on the shell-ebrations!

I don’t know how I’m going to beat the proposal, but I’m shore it’ll be a special day.

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