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❙ star chat ❙ By Alison James areth Malone isn’t often lost for words but a recent encounter with a fan really did leave him speechless. “I was out and about when a lady came up to me and said, ‘I like watching you on TV and really enjoy your programmes, but I didn’t like your beard so I didn’t watch any of your last series’,” he explains. “I couldn’t believe it. She missed the entire series because of my beard? It was bizarre. But. . .” Gareth begins to laugh. “Beard-hating women of Britain, you can now come out from behind the sofa because it’s gone. The beard is no more!” We can’t help wondering why he grew one in the first place? Did he suddenly fancy the currently fashionable ‘young fogey’ look? “It had nothing to do with fashion or trends,” he replies. “It was for completely practical reasons. When my wife, Becky, gave birth to our second child, Gilbert, in April 2013, I didn’t shave for a while because there was never time. I started to think how selfindulgent it was for me to go off for a shave every day for ten to 15 minutes while Becky was dealing with newborn Gilbert and our daughter, Esther, who was then only two-and-a-half. It was a luxury I didn’t feel I could justify. That’s why I grew the beard.” So what made him finally choose to shave it off? “I had my hair cut a few weeks ago,” Gareth laughs. “The beard didn’t look quite right with shorter hair so I decided it was time for it to go. Gilbert’s over one now, anyway, so I can justify time for a During the beard phase! shave.”

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‘Why the beard had to GO!’ As TV’s Gareth Malone prepares to take to the stage at this year’s Proms he chats about being a dad, making music and a facial foliage decision The newly clean-shaven Gareth recently completed a tour of the UK, and loved performing before live audiences. He’ll next be taking to the London stage as part of the Proms, conducting the Military Wives Choir on August 3. The concert will include puppets from the famous War Horse stage production. Choirs and singing groups are thriving around the UK. Singing together as a leisure activity has never been so popular – and Gareth and his BAFTA-winning TV programmes, such as The Choir, Boys Don’t Sing and Sing While You Work must surely take some of the credit for this. “People responded to The Choir and it got them going – rather like The Great British Bake-Off has encouraged us to start baking again,” he says. “I encourage people to love music and help breathe life into it. That’s my job. I’m not necessarily talking about people like myself who grew up surrounded by music and singing, but those who never considered singing before. Being involved with music brings so much joy – as groups such as the Welsh Male Voice choirs have known for years. It goes beyond the music – you

can’t help but make friends with the people you sing with. You find a common interest and passion. “I believe practically everyone can sing – very few people can’t hold a tune. Like anything, the more you practice, the better you get. You’ve got to want to do it, though. While I’m hoping my own children will grow up to be musical and enjoy music, I don’t want to be a pushy music dad, forcing my tastes and interests on them. My children do seem to love music but then all children do.” Although brought up in a musical home – his parents are both amateur singers, Gareth originally set out to become an actor and director, studying drama at the University of East Anglia. “When I was 18 I wanted to be Kenneth Branagh!” he laughs. “I was so serious about wanting to act and direct. But music was always the thing I came back to. It’s always been an obsession. I was in the university choir and composed music for theatre productions. After graduating, I took a two-year postgraduate vocal studies course at the Royal Academy


❙ strap strap ❙ ‘I don’t mind when people come up and start singing to me – as often happens’

of Music in London. “I was running the youth and community choirs for the London Symphony Orchestra when the TV company who made The Choir for the BBC got in touch. “My advice to anyone starting out and not quite sure which direction to go in is, follow your talent. That’s what I did. The acting and directing training hasn’t been wasted, though. I use those skills performing before an audience and directing people to sing.” In the seven years since Gareth (38) first appeared on our screens, he’s become a household name, been awarded the OBE for services to music, written two books and, in conjunction with the Military Wives’ choir, reached number one in the charts twice! Does it surprise him the way things have turned out? “Only all the time!” he replies. “I look at the platinum album I received for Military Wives and think ‘How on earth did that happen?’. It was the same when I performed in front of the Queen at a Remembrance Day concert, went

to Downing Street and appeared on the Graham Norton show. I’m absolutely delighted by it. Of course I am.” What about the fame factor? Does he find it intrusive? “Being recognised goes with the job description,” he says. “I don’t mind when people come up and start singing to me – as often happens, or they say hello. These are the people who watch my shows and I’m very, very grateful to them. Of course, people are going to come up and talk to you – you’ve been beamed into their living rooms and they think they know you. Anyway, it’s not like I’m Lady Gaga or One Direction with hoards of screaming fans wherever I go!” One final question... what’s his favourite kind of music? “You’re expecting me to say choral music, aren’t you?” he teases. “Well, yes it is choral music when I’m in a fabulous cathedral or church. But ✢ The Proms run from the other day I was in a jazz club and the band were amazing – July 18-Sep 13. Gareth’s concert will be broadcast live the combination of clarinet, on BBC Radio 3 on Aug 3 and trumpet, saxophone and shown on BBC2 in November. double bass was perfect. At that moment, jazz was For ticket details call Royal my favourite! But ask me Albert Hall Box Office on tomorrow, and it’ll 0845 401 5040 or visit be different.” www.bbc.co.uk/proms YOURS

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PIC: JEFF SPICER/ALPHA PRESS; REX FEATURES

Gareth has two children with wife Becky


Style MIRACLE SWIMW notes

Baring all in swimwear can be a daunting prospect but, relax, these gorgeous cossies will trim off the inches and flatter your figure. Enjoy your holiday! By Fashion Editor, Michelle Nightingale

Mastectomy styles Finding the right swimsuit suitable for wearing after breast surgery shouldn’t be a stressful experience these days. The good news is that mastectomy swimsuits are not only discreet and stylish, but figure flattering too, so you can feel body confident and really relax. Look for styles with secure pockets and a slightly higher neckline to give support and cover scarring. Adjustable straps are important too, so you can be sure of a snug fit. Michelle says: Mastectomy specialists have a great range of swimsuits with pockets both sides and attention to detail. Lots of swimsuits also have hidden tummy control panels – brilliant for hiding lumps and bumps.

Jill wears: Ruched swimsuit, £29.50, 8-22, Marks & Spencer; hat, £12, Damart; bangles, £12, M&Co

STOCKISTS: Bonmarché 0330 026 2728 www.bonmarche.co.uk; Damart 0871 423 0000 www.damart.co.uk; Debenhams 0844 561 6161 www.debenhams.com; Evans 0844 984 0262 www.evans.co.uk; George at Asda 0800 952 0101 www.asda.com; Isme 0844 811 8112 www.isme.com; M&Co 0800 031 7200 www.mandco.com; Marisota 0871 984 6000 www.marisota.co.uk; Marks & Spencer 0845 609 0200 www.marksandspencer.com; Next 0844 844 8000 www.next.co.uk; Nicola Jane 0845 265 7595 www.nicolajane.com; Simply Be 0871 231 2000 www.simplybe.co.uk; Wallis 0844 984 0266 www.wallis.co.uk Details correct at time of going to press YOURS

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Classic black high neck swimsuit, £39.99, 3244, Nicola Jane

Peony swimsuit, £39.99, 32-42, Nicola Jane

Ruched bandeau swimsuit, £43, 32-42, Nicola Jane


MWEAR (that takes off the pounds) Apple shape

Hourglass

Big bust

Go for waist-trimming styles and built-in support panels, belt details and clever tricks to help give you back your waist. Bodysculpt animal print swimsuit, £14, 8-24, George at Asda

Don’t be afraid to show off your shape with belted styles and plunge v-necklines. Classic and wrap styles will suit you. Tummy control bandeau swimsuit, £39.50, 8-22, Marks & Spencer Collection

Stick to underwired styles with full cups for the best support. Halter necks are great, and a belt or tie detail will help balance you out. Pink halterneck swimsuit, £35, FASHION EDITOR’S 14-32 (different CHOICE cup sizes available), Evans

Halterneck tummy control swimsuit, £38, 8-20, Principles by Ben de Lisi at Debenhams

Bandeau swimsuit, £38, 10-20, Debenhams

Curvy all over Hidden support panels work wonders, so look for wellstructured swimsuits that hold you in. Swimdresses are also a great option if you’re a bit self conscious. Rose print swimdress, £22, 10-32, Bonmarché

Slimming panel swimdress, £39.50, 1432, Evans Stripe halterneck swimsuit, £32, 14-32 (different cup sizes available), Evans

David Emanuel Spot Top Halterneck Swimsuit, £18, 10-32, Bonmarché

Print wrap swimsuit, £28, 8-20, Wallis

Feather print swimsuit, £50, 32D-40DD, Simply Be

Pear shape

Petite Be clever with patterns and try horizontal stripes that will help broaden your shape. Enhance a smaller bust with halter and plunge necklines and ruffles. Nautical print swimsuit, £22, STYLISH 34A-38F, CHOICE Resort at Isme

Look for structured swimsuits that will balance out your wider hips. Contrasting colours work perfectly, team a lighter top half with a slimming darker bottom. Colour block swimsuit, £35, 8-22, Marks & Spencer

Stripe swimsuit, £32.50, 8-22, Marks & Spencer Collection Stripe frill swimsuit, £22, 8-22, Resort at Isme

Coral Magisculpt Bum Lifter Swimsuit, £45, 12-32, Marisota Navy polka dot swimsuit, £30, 6-22, Next YOURS

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PHOTOGRAPHY ANGELA SPAIN; STYLIST JO WINCH; HAIR AND MAKE-UP SARAH JANE GREEN

FLATTER YOUR FIGURE

Polka dot Magisculpt swimsuit, £45, 12-32, Marisota


Time of my

life

Laurel Padbury had a wonderful time working in a family-run hotel in Sixties Brittany, with very basic amenities... n the summer of June 1967, at the end of my first year of studying for a French Honours degree at the University of Newcastle upon Tyne, I leapt at the opportunity of a holiday job in France during the vacation. I had been to France once before, staying with a French family for a three-week exchange visit when I was studying for my A-Levels. This had reinforced my passion for all things French and I was desperate to go back. The job on offer was in a family-run hotel in the small seaside town of Guissény in Britanny. I would receive board, lodgings and pocket money in exchange for general duties in the hotel. I couldn’t wait! In 1967, travelling abroad was not as easy as it is today. I left home in the morning and arrived at Brest, the nearest large town to my destination, at about 4pm the next afternoon. The journey had taken practically two days, involving numerous trains and the cross-channel ferry as a foot passenger, yet I still hadn’t arrived at my final destination. I had been

PICS: BBC; REX FEATURES AND ALAMY

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My French Young Laurel loved all things French!

SUMMER SOJOURN

informed that there was a bus, but not that there was only one bus – and that if my train was late I would miss it. At the age of 19 this hadn’t crossed my mind. Luckily I caught it, but I later found out that another British girl en route to the same hotel had missed it a few days previously and didn’t have the money for a taxi. Fortunately, the hotel owner had paid off the taxi, but for a number of weeks the small amount of money that she received went to repaying the debt.

The hotel Breiz Izel was owned and run by Monsieur and Madame Joseph, helped by their daughter Nicole. On my arrival I was introduced to Judy who had arrived previously and with whom I was to share a room – and the bed, too! I was not unduly worried by this: I had been brought up in a Lancashire mill town in the post-war years when it was not uncommon to share beds with siblings and friends. There was a washbasin with cold water and we were allowed one bath a week in the communal bathroom in the hotel, in the afternoon when the guests were out. We didn’t have a bathroom at home anyway, so again it was not too much of an issue. I was just so pleased to be in France; as long as I had

Our first duty of the day was a trip to the local baker’s for fresh bread for the typical French breakfast


a roof over my head I didn’t care about anything. A few days later another bed appeared in the room and Fiona arrived – then there were three of us! We had to be up early as our first duty of the day was a trip to the local baker’s shop to collect the fresh bread for the typical French breakfast of bread, butter and jam washed down with fresh coffee or hot chocolate. After that there were the chambermaid duties and assisting with the preparation of the lunchtime meal, as the guests were on full board. Never one for making other people’s beds, I opted to work in the kitchen. Mostly everything except the actual cooking was done outside and I have wonderful memories of sitting in the sunshine in the garden at the back of the hotel cleaning sacks of mussels, opening and cleaning crabs (a skill which I have, alas, now forgotten) and preparing all kinds of vegetables. Duties for lunchtime and dinner in the evening were divided between waiting at table in the restaurant and washing up. Fearful of mixing up the orders I chose the washing up. This was done in a sink outside which had a plug hole but no outlet pipe, so the waste water had to be collected in a bucket underneath the sink. There was no running hot water and this had to be heated on a stove. I have a permanent reminder of my kitchen duties

Yours

wants to KNOW

as the owner’s son, Michel, was a published author and signed his book for me with a reference to the red rubber gloves that I always wore while washing up. Between lunch and dinner we had free time to amuse ourselves and spent wonderful sunny afternoons on the sandy beaches of Guissény. Sometimes I was given the morning off, too, and had time to take walks to nearby places such as Kerlouan with its rocky coastline and St Frégant where the church has a typical Breton calvary which dates back to the 15th Century. Days out The evenings from the were usually hotel were treasured spent imbibing soft drinks and listening to the latest hits in the rustic bar which was the village’s ‘nightclub’. I don’t remember any of the tunes other than Whiter Shade of Pale by Procol Harum, which was a hit in France that year as well as in the UK. Every time I hear that song, memories of my fantastic summer in France come flooding back. I often wondered what had become of the hotel and the people who I met there. Using the internet I discovered a French gentleman who had worked there in 197273 and I was able to contact him through Facebook. To my surprise and pleasure he replied, informing me that he had, in fact, married the daughter, Nicole. Although Monsieur Joseph, the father, had died, he’d lived to the ripe old age of 93. The hotel was now a private house inhabited by Michel who had signed his book for me – such happy memories!

Have you got an amazing story to tell? We’ll pay up to £100 for every story we print. Send your story (no more than 1,000 words) and pictures to: ‘Your Memories’, Yours magazine, Media House, Peterborough Business Park, Peterborough PE2 6EA. Or you can email your stories and pictures to valery.mcconnell@bauermedia.co.uk

Quirky connections

In 1936 the catchy song, Pennies From Heaven, became a worldwide hit when sung by Bing Crosby (left) in the film of the same name. It has since been recorded by everyone from Frank Sinatra to Michael Bublé...

... And in 1978, playwright Dennis Potter used it as the title for his BBC musical drama. Its blend of fantasy, old songs and dark humour was a big success, winning a BAFTA and giving Bob Hoskins (right) his breakthrough role as the lead, Arthur Parker.

Bob’s musical skills were tested again in the 1988 live action/ animated film, Who Framed Roger Rabbit (left), for which he won an Oscar nomination. But many remember the film for the rather sexy cartoon character married to Roger, called Jessica...

... Her man-eating persona (“I’m not bad, I’m just drawn that way”) was supposedly a mix of femme fatales: Rita Hayworth as Gilda, Veronica Lake’s hair (right) and Lauren Bacall’s ‘look’. Her speaking voice is actually Kathleen Turner – although she is uncredited. ... Kathleen Turner (right) played femme fatale Matty in 1981’s Body Heat, which in turn was inspired by 1944’s Double Indemnity, starring ultimate man-eater, Barbara Stanwyck. YOURS

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5barbecue ideas af ford able but unusual

Do something different without breaking the bank!

Pork, Apple and Cheddar Burgers with Spiced Cider and Apple Salsa Cheaper meat, but just as tasty Serves 4

Per serving 524 cals

Fat 21g

Sat fat 8g

Preparation time: 30 minutes Cooking time: 15 minutes

TOP TIP If you're not keen on pork, beef or turkey mince is just as tasty!

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■ 500g (1lb) pork mince ■ 1 Cox or Braeburn apple, peeled and grated ■ 4 spring onions, finely chopped ■ 1 beaten egg ■ Fresh sage or parsley, finely chopped ■ 40g (1½oz) cheddar, cut into 4 even pieces ■ 4 burger rolls For the Salsa ■ 3 Cox or Braeburn apples, cut into small cubes but unpeeled ■ 150ml (¼pt) medium cider ■ 1 tbsp cider vinegar ■ ½ tsp ground cinnamon ■ 2 spring onions, finely sliced

1. Mix together the mince, grated apple, spring onions, beaten egg and herbs. Form into patties, placing a piece of cheese in the middle of each one. Chill for approx 20 minutes to firm up. 2. Meanwhile, make the salsa. Place the cubed apples in a small saucepan with the cider, vinegar and cinnamon. Cook over gentle heat until the apple has softened, then add the finely chopped spring onions and let cool. 3. Barbecue or griddle the burgers for 7-8 minutes on each side until cooked through. Serve in rolls topped with the salsa, plus green salad. © www.merrydown.co.uk


FOOD

notes

Griddled Cod with Sweet Pickle Tartare Sauce

Serves 4

Per serving 294 cals

Fat 22g

Sat fat 3g

The perfect barbecue dish for fish ‘n’ chip lovers – and it goes well with your favourite sauces! Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 6 minutes

■ 4 skinless cod fillets, each 175-200g (6-7oz) and 1.5 cm (¾in) thick ■ Extra-virgin olive oil ■ ½ tsp sea salt ■ ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper For the sauce ■ 150ml (¼pt) mayonnaise ■ 3 tbsp sweet pickle (cucumber) relish ■ 2 tbsp finely chopped shallots ■ 1 tbsp capers, rinsed, drained and chopped ■ 2 tsp fresh lemon juice ■ ¼ tsp dried tarragon

1. Prepare the barbecue for direct grilling over high heat (230-290°C/350-450°F) and preheat for about 10 minutes. 2. Whisk the sauce ingredients together. Cover and chill until ready to use. 3. Lightly brush both sides of the fish with oil and season to taste. Cook the fillets over direct high heat for about 4 minutes, with the lid closed. 4. Once the fish just begins to flake when poked with the tip of a knife, carefully turn and cook for a further 2 minutes. Serve warm with the tartare sauce.

TOP TIP Using a grill-proof griddle is a great way to get a nice crust on fish

From Weber’s Big Book of BBQ by Jamie Purviance, published by Hamlyn. £16.99; www.octopusbooks.co.uk

Chicken and Pepper Kebabs with Cider Glaze Basic ingredients from your cupboard staples

Serves 4

Per serving 270 cals

Fat 2g

Sat fat 0.5g

Preparation time: 10 minutes, plus 1 hour marinating Cooking time: 15 minutes

■ 2 crushed garlic cloves ■ Grated zest and juice of 1 lemon ■ 3 tbsp clear honey ■ 300ml (½pt) cider ■ 4 chicken breasts ■ 3 mixed peppers, cubed ■ 3 spring onions, finely chopped

1. Make the marinade by mixing garlic, lemon zest and juice, honey, cider and spring onions together. 2. Cube the chicken, place in a bowl and spoon over 10 tbsp marinade. Cover and chill for at least 1 hour. Reserve the remaining marinade. 3. Thread the chicken and peppers onto kebab sticks. Barbecue or griddle for 7-8 minutes each side until cooked through, basting occasionally with marinade. 4. While the kebabs are cooking, heat the reserved marinade in a small pan and boil until reduced and syrupy. Pour over the kebabs to serve, alongside green salad and new potatoes.

© www.merrydown.co.uk

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❙ knitting ❙

Stylish and

simple

This pretty v-neck vest will be a great addition to your wardrobe MATERIALS FOR KNITTERS WITH MORE EXPERIENCE

★★★

2(2:3:3) 100g balls of Bergere de France Bigarelle yarn in shade 29718 Parme. Pair each of 2.5mm (UK12/13) and 3mm (UK11) knitting needles. Spare needles. Stitch holder. Yarn sewing needle. Yarn quantities based on average requirements when specified tension and yarn is used. Different yarn may be used but ensure tension of replacement yarn matches that stated in the pattern for best results.

TENSION Always check tension carefully and adjust needle sizes throughout if necessary. 26 stitches and 34 rows = 10cm/4in square over stocking stitch using 3mm (UK11) knitting needles or the size required to give the correct tension. It is essential to work to the stated tension to ensure success.

ABBREVIATIONS Alt – alternate; beg – begin(ning); cm – centimetres; cont – continue; dec – decrease(ing); foll – follow(ing); g – grammes; in – inch(es); inc – increase(ing); k – knit; mm – millimetres; 0 – no stitches,

MEASUREMENTS To fit bust S

M

L

XL

82-89 90-97 98-105 106-115 cm 32¼35½38½41¾in 35 38 41½ 45¼ Actual width (when laid flat) 42

46

50

55

cm

16½

18

19½

21½

in

Length (approximately) 48

50

52

54

cm

19

19½

20½

21¼

in

Sleeve length (from shoulder)

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13

14

15

cm

5

6

in


HOME

& craft

NOTES Figures in brackets () refer to larger sizes (see measurements chart). Where one set of figures is given this applies to all sizes. If a zero is given, you do not need to work these instructions. Circle the size you wish to make before you start.

STITCHES USED 2x2 rib – k2, p2 rib (alternate k2, p2 sts across the row. On the following row purl the sts that were knit sts on the previous row and vice versa). Stocking stitch – knit on right side rows, purl on wrong side rows.

BACK Using 2.5mm (UK12/13) knitting needles cast on 102(112:122:136) sts. Work 1 row in 2x2 rib but starting and ending with k2(k3:p2:k3). This sets 2x2 rib pattern. Cont in 2x2 rib as set until work measures 3cm/1¼in, 12 rows total. Change to 3mm (UK11) knitting needles and starting with a knit row cont in st-st. When work measures 6cm/2½in, 26 rows total, inc one stitch at each edge of next RS row and every foll 16th row 4 times. Cont on these 112(122:132:146) sts until work measures 29(30:30:31) cm/11½:12:12:12¼)in, 100(104:104:106) rows total.

ARMHOLES Cast off 3 sts at beg of next 2(2:2:4) rows, 2 sts at beg of next 4(4:6:6) rows, then 1 stitch at beg of next 12(14:12:16) rows. Cont on the rem 86(94:102:106) sts until work measures 46(48:50:52)cm/ 18(19:19½:20½)in, 158(166:172:178) rows total. Shoulders and neck Next row (RS) cast off 4(5:5:6) sts, work 19(21:23:23) sts, cast off the centre 40(42:46:48) sts for the neck, work to end. Each side will now be completed separately. Next row (WS) cast off 4(5:5:6) sts, work to centre cast-off sts and put rem sts on a stitch holder. Next row (RS) cast off 3 sts at neck edge, work to end.

Next row (WS) cast off 4(5:6:6) sts, work to end. Next row (RS) cast off 2 sts at neck edge, work to end. Next row (WS) cast off 5(5:6:6) sts, work to end. Work 1 row straight. Next row (WS) cast off 5(6:6:6) sts. With WS facing rejoin yarn to sts left on the stitch holder, cast off 3 sts (neck edge), work to end. Next row (RS) cast off 4(5:6:6) sts, work to end. Next row (WS) cast off 2 sts at neck edge, work to end. Next row (RS) cast off 5(5:6:6) sts, work to end. Work 1 row straight. Next row (RS) cast off 5(6:6:6) sts.

FRONT Start as for back. When work measures 3cm/11/4in, 12 rows total, change to 3mm (UK11) knitting needles. Work in patt as follows: Rows 1 and 3 (RS) k2 (3:8:15), [p2, k2] 25 (27:27:27) times, k to end. Row 2 and all WS rows ending Row 30, work each st in patt as it presents to maintain the rib patt. Row 5 k2 (7:12:19), [p2, k2] 25 times, k to end. Row 7 k6 (11:16:23), [p2, k2] 23 times, k to end. Row 9 k10 (15:20:27), [p2, k2] 21 times, k to end. Row 11 k14 (19:24:31), [p2, k2] 19 times, k to end. Row 13 k18 (23:28:35), [p2, k2] 17 times, k to end. Row 15 inc in first st, k21 (26:31:38), [p2, k2] 15 times, k to last st, inc. Row 17 k27 (32:37:44), [p2, k2] 13 times, k to end. Row 19 k31 (36:41:48), [p2, k2] 11 times, k to end. Row 21 k35 (40:45:52), [p2, k2] 9 times, k to end. Row 23 k39 (44:49:56), [p2, k2] 7 times, k to end. Row 25 k43 (48:53:60), [p2, k2] 5 times, k to end. Row 27 k47 (52:57:64), [p2, k2] 3 times, k to end. Row 29 k51 (56:61:68), p2, k to end.

NECK AND ARMHOLES Divide the work into 2 and cont each side separately working st-st on all sts and dec one stitch at neck edge (2 sts in from edge) as follows: (To dec one stitch 2 sts in from edge: At beg of row, k2, k2tog, work to end. At end of row, work to last 4 sts, sl 1, k1, psso, k2). On the 1st RS row, on every foll RS row 8 times, on every foll 4th row 4(5:6:7)times, on every foll 6th row 7(5:8:7) times, on every foll 8th row 5(7:5:6) times.

Free knitting patterns

SLEEVES Using 2.5mm (UK12/13) knitting needles cast on 74(78:86:94) sts. Row 1 (RS) (k2, p2) to last 2 sts, k2. Row 2 (WS) (p2, k2) to last 2 sts, p2. This sets 2x2 rib pattern. Cont in 2x2 rib as set until work measures 3cm/1¼in, 12 rows total, then change to 3mm (UK11) knitting needles and starting with a knit row cont in st-st. At the same time, after the 2nd row from cast-on edge, cast off at the beg of every row as follows: 1 stitch 26(30:32:32) times, 2 sts 12 times, 3 sts 2(2:4:4) times, 4 sts 0(0:0:2) times and rem 18 sts.

NECK BORDERS Border no 1 Using 2.5mm (UK12/13) knitting needles cast on 162(170:178:186) sts. Work in 2x2 rib as set for sleeves until work measures 3cm/1¼in, 12 rows total. Leave sts on a spare needle. Border no 2 Using 2.5mm (UK12/13) knitting needles cast on 102(106:110:114) sts. Work in 2x2 rib as set for sleeves until work measures 3cm/1¼in, 12 rows total. Leave sts on a spare needle.

MAKE UP Join shoulder seams. Graft the borders around neck edge. Sew the sleeves into armholes. Sew side seams. Secure and weave in all ends. Refer to ball band for washing and further care instructions.

Yours Use a row counter or pen tip and paper to count rows. ✢ Design by Bergère de France.

Bergère designs and products are now widely available in the UK. For further information and to find your nearest stockist, visit www. bergeredefrance.co.uk

✢ NEXT ISSUE This contemporary design cushion will create a talking point in any room – make it with our pattern!

Head to the new-look yours.co.uk for our favourite FREE knitting patterns Log on now to

At the same time, inc at the outer edge on the first row and every 16th row three times, as for the back. Shoulders When work measures 46(48:50:52) cm/18(19:19½:20½)in, 158(166:172:178) rows total, cast off at the shoulder edge on every alt row as follows: 4(5:5:6) sts 2(3:1:4) times, then 5(6:6:0) sts 2(1:3:0) times.

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PIC: RUTH JENKINSON

times or rows; p – purl; psso – pass the slipped stitch over; rem – remain; RS – right side; sl 1 – slip one stitch; st(s) – stitch(es); st-st – stocking stitch (knit on right side rows, purl on wrong side rows); tog – together; WS – wrong side.


mfrom y lessons life… Jason Donovan (46), currently on tour in Annie Get Your Gun, talks to Yours about what means the most to him Although I appeared in an Australian TV drama called Skyways when I was 11, nothing could have prepared me for my role in Neighbours as Scott, fresh out of school at 17. Life has taught me it’s all about timing. I don’t believe in luck. That’s something you create for yourself. I look back at Neighbours only with affection. It was a wonderful springboard for me, but I didn’t get into the business to become famous, I got into it because I loved acting. I’ve always regarded fame as a byproduct of all that which is maybe why I’m still here.

✢ My greatest good fortune…

my back on that way of life or she’d finish with me and bring up our child that she was expecting on her own. She’s the only person I have eyes for. I’m committed to her and our family. It would be daft to throw all that away.

✢ Family comes first

With Kylie Minogue in Neighbours and above: with his two eldest children, Jemma and Zac in 2011

…was meeting my wife Angela – she was stage manager on a tour of Rocky Horror in which I was appearing. Again, the timing was right. I’d been through some of the darkest chapters of my life involving drink and drugs and she laid it on the line. Either I turned 138

YOURS

EVERY FORTNIGHT

The important elements in my life are my family and friends. Ange and I have three kids – Jemma (14), Zac (13) and three-yearold Molly. I like to think I’ll live on through my children. They’re my immortality, if you like. The circle goes on which is why the world is round and not square.

✢ My first passion I regard myself as an actor first, a singer second. If one of the kids wanted to follow me into the business – as I followed my dad – I’d be fine as long as they

were passionate about it. I’m 46 now so I’ve been in the business for more than three decades.

✢ Risk-taking is good If I could give any advice to my 16-year-old self, it would be to take risks and never be scared of failure. Also, there’s no such thing as cool except if it’s caused by a breeze coming off the ocean.

✢ My one regret I’m not someone who lives with regrets, but I wish I’d been more focused when my grandmother was dying. It was in the Nineties and she’d always been a big part of my life. She was my mum’s mother and was a major influence on me. She loved me unconditionally – a child needs that. ✢ For information on the latest dates and venues for Annie Get Your Gun visit www.anniegetyourgunthemusical. com or www.atgtickets.com The tour ends in October in Torquay. ✢ Jason was talking to Richard Barber

WHAT MADE YOU WHO YOU ARE TODAY? My dad, Terence. He brought me up singlehandedly after my mother left home when I was five. A very committed, active man, he’s seen me climb some big mountains and fall off the other side. The fact I always picked myself up is down to him.

PICS: NI SYNDICATION; REX FEATURES

✢ Neighbours changed my life


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