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Jude Law and Sienna Miller reunite at funeral of 'inspirational' girl who suffered from premature ageing disease

2012-01-27T21:38:00.000+07:00

By CHRIS SLACK

Tribute: Adrienne Greenway, who suffered from a premature ageing disease, has died from pneumonia. She is pictured here with her father Stephen and mother Allison

Tributes have been paid at the funeral of an 'inspirational' woman who died after suffering an extremely rare genetic condition that caused premature ageing.
Adrienne Greenway, 25, from Dover, passed away earlier this month from pneumonia, with her funeral taking place earlier this week.
Mourners in attendance included Hollywood stars Jude Law and Sienna Miller, who stunned friends and family at St John's Church in Coleford by turning up to say goodbye.

Friends: Adrienne Greenway met a number of celebrities in her charity work, including Jude Law and Gwyneth Paltrow. Mr Law gave an impromptu address at her funeral

The stars met Adrienne at a function run by the Make a Wish Foundation, for which she raised thousands of pounds.
Adrienne's mother Allison revealed that Jude even got up and made an impromptu speech about her daughter during the funeral.
She said: 'Jude has been a tower of strength for us, he really has.
'He wasn't due to say anything at the funeral but he did, he said he had to and he remembered all the happy times they had together.

Incredible: Adrienne's mother spoke of how her daughter travelled the world and always put other people first

'She just had this way about her and they became really good friends.'
Adrienne suffered from what doctors thought was a premature ageing disease. Sufferers rarely outlive their teens.
The vibrant young woman had won a string of celebrity admirers for her attitude and charity work, including Stella McCartney - who even designed a dress for her.
Allison, who revealed that doctors were re-assessing Adrienne's medical condition after stating it might not be what they first thought, said: 'She loved the good things in life.

'She always said one of the good things about her condition was that she could buy lovely clothes cheaper because she needed children's sizes.
'It was exactly how she wanted it, she put her head down and curled up with her family there with her."
'She had an incredible life, she has travelled the world but she also loved that she had "normal" friends and was able to go to "normal" school.
'She always put other people first and was conscious of those worse off than her.'
Adrienne leaves two sisters, Hayley and Lindsay, mother Allison and stepfather Jim.

source: dailymail

No-one loves us! Three earless pet rabbits found abandoned in basket on a doorstep

2012-01-27T21:04:00.000+07:00

By DAVID BAKER

Abandoned: Benny, Bluebell and Polo were abandoned by their owners because of a birth defect effecting their ears

These lonely looking rabbits are desperately in a need of new home after their owners abandoned them because they are missing some ears.
Bluebell, Benny and Polo were left in a basket and dumped on a doorstep, simply because they did not have the trademark long ears synonymous with these fluffy pets.
Thought to be a defect from birth Benny and Bluebell are both missing one ear while Polo has none.

Homeless: Bluebell, Benny and Polo were dumped by their owner because they did not have typically long ears like this rabbit

Fortunately the trio of sad looking bunnies are now in the safe hands of staff at an RSPCA shelter in Chesterfield.
Deputy manager Gary Taylor said 'We can't say for certain how they lost their ears.
'It could be that the mother was stressed when they were born and chewed them off or they may have been born this way.
'They were abandoned on a doorstep in Chesterfield and we are looking for homes for them.

'They are young and need plenty of handling but they are smashing rabbits.'
Sadly these abandoned rabbits are one of hundreds of dumped animals taken by the RSPCA everyday.
Last year alone the charity took in 28,162 animals left homeless by their owners - a number which has grown every year for the past five years.
Inspector for the animal welfare charity, Tony Woodley said: 'Although it is tempting to blame the economic situation, we have no real idea of why the number of abandonments is increasing overall.

source: dailymail

Is your outfit too bright for you? Jessica Alba wears sunshades as she dazzles in neon yellow shirt and lime green handbag

2012-01-27T20:57:00.000+07:00

By MARISSA CHARLES

Standing out: Jessica Alba was at the CNN Building in Hollywood on Thursday wearing a bright yellow blouse

She has been on a whirlwind media tour promoting her new business on both sides of the US coast. And with a high profile, demanding schedule Jessica Alba has had to wear an array of eye-catching outfits.
But the actress outdid herself in Los Angeles on Thursday when she was spotted leaving the CNN Building in a neon yellow shirt.

Busy woman: Jessica has been promoting her latest business venture, The Honest Company

The 30-year-old emerged clutching a lime-green handbag.
Wearing sunshades, a pencil-thin skirt and black high-heels, she cut a streamlined figure. Over the past couple of weeks the mum-of-two has been promoting her new business venture The Honest Company, which makes Eco-friendly baby and cleaning products. At one point during her media blitz she wore four outfits in one day while whizzing between TV interviews and a launch party in New York.

Technicolor: The actress wore lemon and green on Thursday and a green jacket the day before

At times the Sin City star has made some daring choices.
Last week the actress wore an unusually whacky ensemble as she showed up to film Live With Kelly in New York.
She wore a green and black winter coat with a bright orange top and multicoloured trousers. Following her appearance on that daytime TV show, she went to the CNN studios to film an interview with Piers Morgan.

Hit or miss: The actress has been sporting different looks while promoting her business in LA and New York

She arrived wearing an eye-catching red silk top, wide blue trousers, and a black coat with glittering shoulders.
Later on she opted for more subtle attire. She turned up at yet another TV studio, dressed all in black - a wool short dress, opaque tights, a matching coat and boots.
Jessica opted for a more classic, casual look on Wednesday when she filmed the TV show Extra with Mario Lopez at The Grove in West Hollywood.
The young mum wore a pair of jeans and a green jacket with a striped top underneath.
The entrepreneurial actress has said that being a mother is 'the most satisfying job in the world.'

Business woman: The actress has launched The Honest Company, which provides ecological baby products

source: dailymail

Paris Jackson gets the fever as she teams up with Justin Bieber to pay tribute to her late father at handprint ceremony

2012-01-27T20:45:00.000+07:00

By IONA KIRBY

Photo opportunity: The children pose with Justin Bieber and the Cirque du Soleil company

He's one of the most famous singers in the world who has always said how much he admired Michael Jackson.
So when it came to inviting performers for a handprint ceremony for the late singer, Jackson's daughter Paris ensured Justin Bieber was at the top of the list.
And the 13-year-old singer appeared more than a little excited as she introduced the 17-year-old singer to the stage outside Grauman’s Chinese Theatre.

United: Justin Bieber joined Michael Jackson's children at yesterday's handprint ceremony at Grauman's Chinese Theatre

Speaking to the crowd, Paris said: 'We are all very big fans of Justin and his music. I know I am!'
Paris was joined by her siblings Prince Michael, 14, and Blanket, nine, for the ceremony, which saw the trio press their hands and feet into a slab of concrete with their late father’s name scrawled on it.
They also imprinted their father’s hand with a sequined glove, and his feet with a pair of shoes.

In the spotlight: The children have made more public appearances since the death of their father

Following in her father's footsteps: Paris has recently landed a role in a movie

Hugs all round: Paris appeared pretty smitten as she introduced Bieber to the stage to perform

As well as to honour Michael’s memory, the event was celebrating Michael Jackson the Immortal World Tour, the Cirque du Soleil production performed to his hit songs.
The company performed a number from their show for the event’s attendees.
And teen pop sensation Justin Bieber also took to the stage to perform Rockin' Robin, giving a touching introduction before he burst into song.

Honouring: Michael Jackson's three children were asked to take part in a hand and footprint ceremony

Cementing their father's memory: Michael Jackson never had the chance to take part in the Hollywood tradition

The 17-year-old said: 'I don’t usually get nervous, but I’m kind of really nervous right now. Basically because Michael meant so much to me and I know he meant a lot to you guys as well.
'He was more than an entertainer. He was an inspiration the way he was kind, he was gentle and very charitable.

Meeting the family: Bieber was keen to meet all of the Jackson family before the ceremony, and greeted Prince with a handshake

Good spirits: The siblings smiled widely as they remembered their father at the ceremony

'That’s why I look up to him. People are going to remember him for his dancing and singing, but people have to remember him for being the man that he was. I think everybody right now should give Michael a round of applause.'
He added: 'Everything I do, I look at Michael and I want to be as good as he was.'

Immortal: Prince Michael, Blanket, and Paris Jackson took part in a hand and footprint ceremony to honour their late father

Write on: Paris scrawls her father's name into the slab of concrete

In memoriam: The ceremony also saw Paris place her father's famous silver glove into the concrete

Messy pup! Blanket looked entirely unimpressed by the mess left on his hands at the ceremony

And there were a host of other stars at the event to honour the Thriller singer, who died in June 2009, aged 50. Melanie Fiona also performed, while Smokey Robinson, Quincy Jones and Chris Tucker all made speeches. And the children were not the only family members on hand to honour the memory of the late musician.

Giving thanks: The children made a speech at the ceremony

Celebrity guest: Justin Bieber was just one of the stars in attendance at the lavish ceremony

We are family: Tito, Jackie and Katherine Jackson were there to honour their brother's memory

Putting on a show: The Cirque du Soleil team performed at the ceremony

Remembering a musical master: Tito, left, and Jackie Jackson outside the Grauman's Theatre

source: dailymail

How low can you go Olivia? Actress treads on the Wilde side with daring plunging neckline

2012-01-27T20:03:00.000+07:00

By NADIA MENDOZA

Button up! Olivia Wilde flirts with danger in low-cut dress as she dines out with boyfriend Jason Sudeikis in Los Feliz, California

The awkward moment when you have food in your teeth, unsightly residue hanging from your nose - or your dress has plunged dangerously low.
Olivia Wilde's neckline sagged nearly to her navel as she stepped out for a lunch date with boyfriend Jason Sudeikis in Los Feliz, California.
The Cowboys & Aliens actress opted to go braless in a floor-length denim dress that gaped open bravely, baring a generous dose of cleavage.

Incognito? Make-up free Olivia hid beneath shades, but failed to divert attention

Hiding beneath sunglasses and opting to go make-up free, it seemed Olivia was diverting attention from paparazzi by being incognito.
But the risqué number did anything but deflect wandering eyes.
Olivia clearly has a penchant for baring her favourable assets, having flaunted her shapely curves earlier this week on the set of her new film.

Affectionate: Olivia gave Jason a squeeze as he placed a tender arm around her

The 27-year-old is currently shooting The Incredible Burt Wonderstone with co-star Jim Carrey, and was spied covered head to toe in glittery lycra.
Despite little room to manoeuvre in the mouth-watering outfit, she had a little air from a heart-shape cutaway over her cleavage.
Earlier this month, Olivia joked on Twitter: 'Vegas, day 2. Spent 45 mins lost inside hotel. Beginning to show signs of dementia due to neon overexposure and piped-in nitrous. Send help.'

Boho: Olivia opted for flip-flops and bed hair rather than bling and extreme styling

Honeymoon period: The couple only went public with their romance last month

The couple went public with their romance before Christmas and have become virtually inseparable ever since.
Olivia, who starred in television drama House for nearly four years, was previously married to childhood sweetheart Tao Ruspoli.
However, her marriage to the Italian-American documentary filmmaker came to an end last March after eight years together.
Meanwhile, 36-year-old Sudeikis wed former 30 Rock co-star and writer Kay Cannon in 2004, but divorced six years later.

Feeling shy? Olivia turned her back on photographers, but Jason managed a smile

Superhero! Olivia bared cleavage while filming The Incredible Burt Wonderstone

source: dailymail

Winter’s here! Parts of Britain wake to snowy scenes as icy Siberian blasts blows in… and it’s due to last a MONTH

2012-01-27T19:30:00.000+07:00

By JOHN STEVENS

Snow go! A worker clears ice from the plough of his gritter after overnight snow in County Durham

Bitter Siberian-style winter weather is finally here with parts of Britain waking up today to the first big snowfall of the year.
Up to four inches of snow are expected to fall across higher ground today with temperatures set to plummet to minus five across the whole country by the weekend.
The Met Office has put severe weather warnings in place today for ice on the roads with snow turning to slush and causing travel disruption.

White dawn: Snow covers a tree plantation in County Durham this morning as the sun rises

Wintery scenes: A car struggles up the hill in the snow at Killhope, County Durham this morning

The cold spell breaks what has so far been one of the warmest winters on record. And forecasters said it was becoming increasingly likely that the freezing temperatures would stick around and even last through the whole of February.

Struggle: A woman walks her dog in the snow at Nenthead, Cumbria, as the winter weather swept in

George Goodfellow of the Met Office said: ‘It seems like we are edging toward a scenario where lower temperatures last for the next four weeks. It is going to be a contrast to the weather we have had this winter. Widespread frosts and snow could affect large areas.’ He said the wintry weather was a result of ‘a cold air mass moving across from Siberia’.
There are fears that the sudden onset could bring travel chaos and catch many drivers off guard.

White-out! An old farm house in the snow near Killhope, County Durham

AA spokesman Luke Bodett said: ‘We have had a very mild winter so far and motorists need to get into their winter mindset from today. It is going to be important not to charge around in the way they may have been used to and be prepared for the unexpected.’
The Met Office has briefed government departments and local councils about the cold period so that extreme weather plans can be put on standby. Snow is expected to fall today in Cumbria, the Pennines and parts of Scotland, with a light dusting expected in areas as far south as Devon. Nick Prebble, a forecaster with MeteoGroup, said: ‘Friday will feel a lot different to recent days, the main thing about it is there are going to be a lot of wintery showers all over the country.

‘There may be snow flurries in higher areas but hail elsewhere.

‘It will be quite a bright day though overall with quite a few sunny spells, around 8c in London.’ He added that sleet and snow could be expected in eastern areas by Monday.
Two police officers were taken to hospital last night after their marked car collided with a lorry in the first casualties of the cold snap.
Strathclyde Police said the officers were taken to the Royal Alexandra Hospital in Paisley with minor injuries after the crash on the A8 near Langbank in Renfrewshire.

On its way? Snow could hit the country in the next few days with warnings that the big freeze could last for up to a month. Here two dog walkers are seen in a park in New Cumnock, Ayrshire yesterday

Bitter: Temperatures across the country could drop below zero due to a cold air mass moving west from Siberia

Investigators are continuing to work to establish the cause of the crash but it is known that snow was falling in the area at the time.
Britain had been on track for one of the mildest winters since records began more than 350 years ago.
But Met Office forecaster Helen Chivers said: ‘Cold weather is winning the battle for dominance and people will notice the cold carrying on for more than a few days.
‘There is the potential for the colder weather to continue through February, although we can’t say at this stage whether there would be much snowfall or dry cold.’

source: dailymail

The joys of pregnancy! Cameron Diaz flaunts her growing baby bump in cheeky new poster for What To Expect When You're Expecting

2012-01-27T19:16:00.000+07:00

By MIKE LARKIN

Radiant: Cameron Diaz is glowing as she clutches her baby bump in a new cheeky poster for the upcoming film What To Expect When You're Expecting

Everyone is wondering what exactly they can expect from What To Expect When You're Expecting. And with newly released posters of the film, there is more of a sneak peak of what will be delivered.
In a series of snaps, each of the film's stars, except one, is shown modelling their respective baby bump. Posing holding their pregnant bellies, they are accompanied by hilarious quotes from the film. And while it is difficult to say who exactly looks the most glowing of mothers, Cameron Diaz may have just pipped her co-stars, including Sports Illustrated favourite Brooklyn Decker, by an inch.

Naughty: Brooklyn Decker's snap is also accompanied by a cheeky catch-cry from the film, which may have audiences blushing

The Mask star looks radiant in one the film's new poster, and also adds in a dash of humour. An image of Cameron clutching her burgeoning bump is accompanied by a quote from her TV host character which reads, 'If I knew I'd have a rack like this I'd have gotten knocked up years ago.'
Brooklyn Decker, is also glowing as she holds onto her a rather large belly.
Her snap is also accompanied by a cheeky catch-cry from the film, which may have audiences blushing.
'I have all this extra energy. Plus I'm like crazy horny,' it reads.

Getting prepared: She may not be pregnant in the movie, but Jennifer Lopez is also blessed with a baby in the film after her character adopts

She may not be pregnant in the movie, but Jennifer Lopez is also blessed with a baby in the film after her character adopts.
In her poster, the 42-year-old is seen holding a pregnancy bible and smiles, along with the more serious quote: 'I can't wait to meet my baby.'
Not so happy it appears is Elizabeth Banks, who seems to undergo a difficult time in her pregnancy in the film.
Her character quotes: 'I'm calling bull****. Pregnancy sucks.'

Smiling through the pain: Elizabeth Banks may be smiling, but it appears that she goes through a tough time during her pregnancy in the film

The exciting series of posters is rounded off by actress Anna Kendrick.
Her amusing quotation is: 'You pee on a stick. It's pretty idiot proof.'
Devotees of the best selling pregnancy guide book - a non-fictional work which has been adapted into a comedy like film He's Just Not That Into You - may be worried that the movie is just a cash-in on the name.
However for director Kirk Jones it was doubtlessly a labour of love.

Good humour: The fun series of posters is rounded off by actress Anna Kendrick who adds in a dash of satire about being pregnant

The posters are the latest in a fascinating series of drip-drip publicity releases in the run up to the picture's release on May 11.
Cameron, 39, plays aspiring singer and pregnant weight loss show host Jules.
In the first trailer for the movie, the blonde is seen talking to actor Matthew Morrison - Glee's New Directions coach - who plays Evan, a man who teams up with her character on a celebrity dance show.

Star-studded: Cameron co-stars with Glee's Matthew Morrison who plays a man who teams up with her character on a celebrity dance show

Providing the glamour: Jennifer plays a woman who adopts a baby after having difficulty conceiving

Wearing just a blue robe, Cameron jokes about her growing bosom.
Ironically in 2009, the actress, who has has a string of failed relationships and never married, said: 'I think women are afraid to say that they don't want children because they're going to get shunned.'
'I have more girlfriends who don't have kids than those that do. And honestly? We don't need any more kids. We have plenty of people on this planet.'

Very friendly: Lucky Brazilian actor Rodrigo Santoro plays her husband who works in the music business and is not ready to have a child

Young stars: Twilight's Anna Kendrick and Gossip Girl's Chace Crawford are old flames who reunite after a turf war between their respective food trucks

Perhaps she will change her mind on the subject after leading the star-studded cast in the highly-anticipated movie.
Arguably the second biggest name starring is J-Lo, who plays Holly, a woman who adopts a baby from abroad after difficulty conceiving.
Brazilian actor Rodrigo Santoro plays her husband who works in the music business and is not ready to have a child.
Talented Cheryl Cole famously scored a role in the big-budget production, starring as a TV dance talent show judge.

He's Inner Space: Bikini model Brooklyn Decker plays the pregnant wife of a 'much older man', played by Dennis Quaid

Picture perfect: Elizabeth Banks is an author and owner of The Breast Choice boutique

No doubt she will have shared a few jokes with Jennifer about how she was ironically given the boot from X Factor USA before it had even aired.
Gossip Girl star Chace Crawford plays food truck owner Marco, who reunites with an old flame, Rosie, played by Twilight's Anna Kendrick as Rosie, who becomes pregnant.
Swimwear model Brooklyn plays the pregnant wife of a 'much older man' named Ramsey, who is played by Inner Space star Dennis Quaid.
Comedian Chris Rock plays Vic, who is the head of a group of expectant fathers who lecture them on what it's really like to have a baby and become a father.

Hot: Joe Manganiello, showing off his impressive abs, is a photographer of international surfing competitions and the envy of a father support group

Funnyman: Comedian Chris Rock is the leader of the father support group and lectures them on what its like to have children

Elizabeth Banks is an author and owner of The Breast Choice boutique. She is militant in her beliefs about what makes a good mother until she gets pregnant for the first time.
True Blood's Joe Manganiello shows off his impressive set of abs in the movie. He plays a photographer of international surfing competitions and the envy of a father support group
The Hills and The City star Whitney Port has a cameo as herself in the movie.

source: dailymail

Didn't they realise what it looks like? U.S. 'sperm spy plane' designers left red-faced over aircraft's rather embarrassing shape

2012-01-27T18:53:00.000+07:00

By DAILY MAIL REPORTER

This oddly shaped device is Argus One; the Pentagon's newest unmanned spy plane with automated control for individual body parts giving improved flight stability and aerodynamic control

It's called Argus One; the Pentagon's newest unmanned spy plane. But cheeky observers are already calling it the 'Flying Sperm'.
It has the capacity to carry 30 pounds of high tech sensors and cameras and the ability to hover over remote locations between 10,000 and 20,000 feet, even in rough weather. The suspect design has been attributed to improved 'flight stability and aerodynamic control' as well as giving the aircraft a longer flight time.

It has the capacity to carry 30 pounds of high tech sensors and cameras and the ability to hover over remote locations between 10,000 and 20,000 feet, even in rough weather

The Argus One, named after the Greek god Argus who was the all seeing god with one hundred eyes, is designed to be an 'eye in the sky' even in very remote areas.
The aircraft was created by the World Surveillance Group Inc (WSGI) for the Pentagon and is now being tested at an undisclosed location.

The aircraft's 'flexible, non-rigid' body also makes for easy storage and transportation

'The Argus One has a low radar footprint making it virtual stealth since the payload bay located on the forward module of the airship is the only radar reflecting material on the airship.' a statement from WSGI said.
The aircraft's 'flexible, non-rigid' body also makes for easy storage and transportation.

The Argus One, named after the Greek god Argus who was the all seeing god with one hundred eyes, is designed to be an 'eyes in the sky' even in very remote areas

Argus One can be assembled and launched in hours from virtually anywhere, including remote, mountainous territory

Argus One can be assembled and launched in hours from virtually anywhere, including remote, mountainous territory.
The device has been especially designed to meet the requirements of U.S. military and other governmental agencies.
It can also wirelessly transmit critical live video and other information directly to a ground control station or system.
The ground control system also allows the operator to control Argus One either manually or remotely by programming it for GPS–based autonomous navigation.

source: dailymail

Put that on her finger! 57,500-carat world's largest emerald worth $1.15MILLION up for auction

2012-01-27T18:31:00.000+07:00

By DAILY MAIL REPORTER

'World's largest emerald': The gem, pictured here with owner Regan Reaney, is valued ay $1.15m and is set to be auctioned on Saturday

The world's largest cut emerald is set to go up for auction - and is expected to fetch $1.15million.
The 57,500-carat stone, which is the size of a watermelon, is scheduled to be auctioned off tomorrow by Western Star Auctions in British Columbia.
The gem, named Teodora, was found in Brazil and cut in India, before being sold to rare gems dealer Reagan Reaney in Calgary - but there are doubts over whether it is in fact a true emerald

The 57,500-carat stone, named Teodora, was found in Brazil and cut in India, before being sold to the rare gems dealer Reagan Reaney in Calgary

A security guard keeps a watchful eye of the stone as residents take a look at it at Western Star Auction House in Kelowna, British Columbia

'I’m positive it contains emerald but I’m not sure how much of it is emerald,' Jeff Nechka, the gemologist who appraised the stone, told JCK Magazine.
Nechka said that he can not even confirm that the stone is in fact the 'world’s largest emerald'.
The stone has been dyed so Nechka says it is possible that at least part of it could be dyed white beryl.

A worker polishes the world's largest emerald at Western Star Auction House in preparation for the public auction

'It has been dyed to some extent but it’s impossible to tell the intensity of the stone prior. It’s impossible to know how much of it is emerald.' he told JCK.
Director of Gemological Institute of America's West Coast Identification Service, Shane McClure, said he had not examined the stone but that if there is any white beryl in the stone, GIA would likely term it 'beryl with zones of emerald.'
'We probably would not call it emerald no matter what,' he told JCK. 'They seem to think there is indication of natural green coloration but we wouldn't call it emerald in any case.'

Floran Lacerte lifts the world's largest emerald which weighs 11.5 kg and kisses it at the Auction House

A visitor holds the world's largest emerald as security guards stand nearby

Despite the doubt, Nechka said that he was confident the stone has been priced accordingly. 'If it was solid, untreated emerald, you would be looking at 10 or 20 times the value for sure,' he told JCK.
Regan Reaney, the Calgary gem wholesaler who is selling the stone, told JCK that anyone who questions the stone is welcome to examine it.

source: dailymail

Star-studded! All grown-up Selena Gomez slips on some heavy metal platform boots to receive golden record accolade

2012-01-27T15:11:00.000+07:00

By JADE WATKINS

Biker chick: Selena Gomez wore a pair of heavily studded black leather ankle boots as she was presented with a golden record in Mexico City today

Selena Gomez has changed up her image of late as she is determined to break away from her good girl Disney image.
And it was no different in Mexico City today, as the singer slipped on a pair of heavily studded ankle boots.
The tough-looking star-spangled boots clearly fitted the bill as the 19-year-old was being presented with a golden record in recognition for selling over 30,000 copies of her album, When The Sun Goes Down. Still sporting her technicolor rainbow hair, which was this time styled in a chic blow-wave, Selena also slipped into a tiny pair of Daisy Dukes.

Tough: The shoes were adorned with silver star studs

She paired the look with a daring sheer white T-shirt and a melon-coloured cropped tuxedo jacket.
Her recent outfits aren't the only thing about Selena that is growing up, her film roles are also becoming more mature.
After the teenager finishes her South American tour, she will go straight into filming Spring Breakers, an edgy, dark Harmony Korine project.
Alongside James Franco, Vanessa Hudgens and Emma Roberts, Selena plays the character of Faith, one of three friends who rob a bank in order to pay for the classic American tradition of Spring Break.
And that isn't all the naughty mischief her character gets up to.
The actress will also be seen drinking and partying in the movie.
'She's the little more tamed down character but also still gets a little crazy here and there,' Selena told E! Online.

Risque: Selena also slipped into a sheer white T-shirt which she paired with some very short Daisy Dukes

'She goes on spring break with her girlfriends and they end up getting into a whole mess of things. They're partying and drinking. We end up in jail.'
'I'm nervous,' she said. 'It's a little edgy, but it's fun. I fought for that role. I flew to Nashville and told him I want be a part of it.'
Selena, who recently announced that she'll be taking a break from music to concentrate on her film career, has been unleashing a selection of sexy outfits on stage.

Honoured: The singer was presented with a golden record in recognition of selling over 30,000 copies of her album When The Sun Goes Down in Mexico

And now it appears that the raunch factor is creeping into her everyday attire.
Earlier this week Selena was seen in a pair of lacy hotpants, sheer crop-top and discernible pink bra. She was headed out of Puerto Rico airport with her band the Scene to make their Panama concert.

Rainbow girl: Selena was still sporting her technicolor locks

Fans will have to make the most of these performances, before Selena's self-imposed hiatus. 'We’re going to take a break from music,' she told E! News. 'My band and I are going to chill on that for a second.'
'I’m doing two films, which I’m excited about,” she added. 'They’re both different and things I’ve never played before, so that’ll be fun for me.'

Daring: Earlier this week Selena was seen in a pair of lacy hotpants, sheer crop-top and discernible pink bra

Selena is also saying goodbye to Wizards of Waverly Place, the Disney series that propelled her into stardom.
When asked if her followers are ready to let go of the magical Mouse House sitcom, Selena sighed: 'Definitely not, according to my Twitter feed and everything else.'
'Of course we could stay on, but we want to do other things. We want to move on. The show will live on forever, and obviously, we’re all grateful for it.'

source: dailymail

Practising family-friendly fun: Pregnant Peaches Geldof puts wild child past behind her as she attends The Muppets premiere

2012-01-27T14:59:00.000+07:00

By ANDREA MAGRATH

Family-friendly fun: Pregnant Peaches Geldof attended The Muppets film premiere in London last night

She used to be famed for her less than angelic behaviour.
But domestic bliss appears to have changed Peaches Geldof, who these days favours family films over nightclubs.
The pregnant 22-year-old attended the premiere of The Muppets in London tonight, perhaps practising for the years of animated entertainment she has in front of her.

Mother-to-be: The 22-year-old is expecting a baby boy in April with fiancé Thomas Cohen

Peaches, whose baby boy is due on April 24, cradled her bump as she posed for pictures at the screening, held at the Mayfair Hotel.
Miss Geldof wore a demure black and white dress with opaque tights and brown and black heels.
The rock offspring is still looking incredibly slender in her face and arms despite being six months into her pregnancy.

Eyes front Kermit: Former CBB housemate Georgia Salpa posed with the stars of the film

Really appropriate for a family film? George wore a tight mini dress to the screening, while Kitty Brucknell was a little more demure

The former party girl described herself in a recent interview as 'domesticated' and 'boring.'
'I’ve been staying in with my fiancé every night of the week, watching films like Babe,' she told Hello! magazine. 'The most exciting it got recently was a night out to see Arthur Christmas.’
It's a good thing her taste in entertainment has changed, as with a baby on the way, Peaches has at least a decade of child-friendly films in her future

Family night out: Vanessa White of The Saturdays also attended

Dressed to match: Joey Essex appeared to be under the impression that he was also required to look like a frog

The former Ultimo spokesperson and her rocker fiancé revealed their happy news earlier this month, after enjoying it in secret for as long as they could.
Peaches told how she announced to her family over Christmas that she was expecting, and that father Bob Geldof was overjoyed at having a grandson.
Also enjoying The Muppets premiere with Peaches were a host of other celebrities including Olly Murs, Stephen Fry and Jeremy Irvine.

War Frog: War Horse star Jeremy Irvine poses with some new pals

The film follows the Muppets as they reunite to save their old theatre from a greedy oil tycoon. It also stars Zack Galifianakis, Ken Jeong, Chris Cooper and Rashida Jones. The Muppets will open in UK cinemas on February 10.

No shows: The human stars of the film, Jason Segel and Amy Adams, did not attend

source: dailymail

Now, that's how to wear a bikini! Picture perfect Adriana Lima models Victoria's Secret swimwear in tropical St Barts

2012-01-27T14:32:00.000+07:00

Angelic: Adriana Lima looked incredible as she posed for a Victoria's Secret campaign in St Barts today

She's one of the most incredible looking women in the world, and even the exotic beauty of Caribbean jewel in the crown - St Barts, couldn't upstage her stunning looks.
Because Adriana Lima, 30 , is the undeniable pull of this incredible photo shoot for Victoria's Secret, which saw the mother-of-one model bikinis for iconic brand.
Lima, who has a two-year-old daughter Valentina, showed off her enviable figure and looked reassuringly healthy and toned.

Sparkle: Even a sequin-studded bikini top couldn't distract from the Brazilian's incredible looks

The Victoria's Secret Angel, who is married to Serbian basketball player Marko Jarić, 33 , caused controversy last November when she admitted to living off just liquids in the run up to the iconic lingerie brand's yearly show.
The Brazilian-born beauty admitted to months of everyday workouts, a carefully restricted diet and a liquids-only nine-day pre-show regimen.
But the 30-year-old brunette dismissed regime - which raised eyebrows far and wide for condoning extreme dieting - as nothing more than a 'misunderstanding.'

Striking a pose: Adriana worked the camera like a pro in the Caribbean heat

Speaking with E! Canada, the Brazilian model urged impressionable teenage girls to ignore her stringent preparations.
'Those teenagers out there, don't go starving yourself or only drinking liquids... Don't do that please.'
Instead, she made a show of flashing her Starbucks coffee and cake: 'I have my Starbucks coffee right there,' and said that her intense diet comments were simply 'a misunderstanding.'
The mother and catwalk queen had told the Telegraph that her pre-show planning involved months of training, upping to twice-daily workouts in the weeks before the lingerie showcase.

Curves: Adriana showed off a healthy but slender figure as she frolicked in the surf

She said she has a protein-heavy liquids-only diet for nine days in the run-up to the finale and drinks a gallon of water each day.
In the final stretch, for 12 hours before the show, she will stay away from liquids altogether, explaining to the newspaper: 'No liquids at all so you dry out, sometimes you can lose up to eight pounds just from that.'
But it appears her comments were a confusion.
Nor is her workout routine as hard as portrayed, she said, and it is something she does not adhere to throughout the year.

Good influence: Adriana insists she eats a sensible and balanced diet

Curves: Adriana showed off a healthy but slender figure as she frolicked in the surf

'It's not that I do crazy diets throughout the year. I just do it for this particular thing. After this show, I become normal again!' she told the Canadian network. 'I know it's very intense but...I just have an athlete's mind and I appreciate doing this thing.'
If anything, the model has held back on her usual routine, she said: 'This year, even though my diet was intense, I took it a little bit easier on the working out so I won't be as muscular.'
Ms Lima joined a bevvy of beautiful models including Miranda Kerr, Alessandra Ambrosio and Karlie Kloss for the annual show.

source: dailymail

How wearing high heels regularly can ruin the way you walk - even after you take them off

2012-01-27T14:17:00.000+07:00

By DAISY DUMAS

Pretty, but painful: Australian scientists say that wearing heels changes the way a woman walks - even when in flats - so that she puts more strain on her calf muscles

Many women know that high heels are hardly the most comfortable, stable or practical shoe around - but persist in wearing them for obvious, confidence-boosting reasons.
In a first-of-its-kind study, new research goes beyond the 'no pain, no gain' anecdotal responses to high heels, looking at the lasting physiological implications of tottering on a three- to four-inch heel day after day.
Australian scientists have found that, by constantly forcing a foot into a 'plantarflexed' position, or downwardly pointed toes, women are changing their walking behaviour - at the risk of causing permanent damage to leg muscles.

Looking heely good: Victoria Beckham, heel fan incarnate, may have shortened calf muscles, according to the new research

Comparing a group of heel lovers with a control group of women, all of whom were aged between late teens and early 30s, who rarely wear heels, scientists asked women to walk without shoes to assess whether heels had changed the way they strode, reports the New York Times.
The Griffith University, Queensland, Scientists asked the women to walk along a 26-foot runway specially underlaid with sensors, said the newspaper. They monitored the varying forces of each foot on the ground as well as the action of joints and muscles.

The study, published this month in the Journal of Applied Physiology, found that even when walking in flats, high-heel devotees - those who have worn a 2inch plus heel for more than 40 hours a week over the preceding two years - have a neuromechanically adapted style of walking to that of non-heel wearers.
Flat shoe wearers look longer strides, using their tendons to walk rather than overly engaging their calves.
Heel wearers - Victoria Beckham, heel fan incarnate, take note - took shorter, more aggressive steps, putting more pressure on calf muscles, the Times said.
It's an inefficient way to walk, the team told the newspaper, with heel wearers needing to over-work their calf muscles in order to take steps, rather than relying on the tendons, which deftly control barefoot walking.

source: dailymail

End of the road: Harry Styles dumps Caroline Flack days before One Direction's US tour

2012-01-27T13:33:00.000+07:00

By DAILY MAIL REPORTER

Moving on: Harry Styles broke up with Caroline Flack, 15 years his senior, earlier this week just days before he heads on tour in the US with One Direction

They've had all eyes on the state of their relationship ever since controversially hooking up. But now 32-year-old TV presenter Caroline Flack has been left heartbroken as her toyboy lover Harry Styles has called their romance off.
The One Direction singer, who will turn 18 on Wednesday, pulled the plug on their burgeoning love affair just days before he jets off for the band's first American tour.

Putting it behind her: Caroline wasted no time in getting back to her flirty ways as she co-hosted the NTAs on ITV2 with Matt Edmondson on Wednesday

Reports claim The X Factor star wasn't ready for a long distance relationship so told Caroline they had to end.
A source tells the Daily Mirror: 'Harry is being realistic about the whole thing.
'He’s going off to America in a couple of days and he wants to be able to commit fully to making the band a success in the States.
'They’ll be back for the Brits, but all in all they’ll be away for two months. It’s a long time to be apart especially with so much going on.'
Harry and Caroline reportedly split on good terms and the break-up was amicable.
'Harry’s young. He’s just not ready for a long-distance relationship,' the source adds.

The TV host received a slew of criticism over the 15-year age gap, but she insisted she was doing nothing wrong.
The pair were spotted leaving each other's houses in the early hours of the morning on various occasions, but they were said to have split over the new year.
Although things looked back on track recently, with Caroline meeting Harry's mum.
But it seems for the next two months, at least, the pair will be going their separate ways.

source: dailymail

'Oh no, daddy!' Roger Federer's adorable twin daughters cheer their father on as tennis player loses to Nadal at Australian Open

2012-01-27T13:26:00.000+07:00

By MAYSA RAWI

Two-year-old Myla Rose and her sister Charlene Riva looked adorable in matching pink dresses and white cardigans as they cheered their father Roger Federer on during his warm-up at the Australian Open

They may seem a little young to appreciate a game of tennis - but Roger Federer's twin daughters loyally turned out to support him at the Australian Open today.
Two-year-old Myla Rose and her sister Charlene Riva looked adorable in matching pink dresses and white cardigans as they cheered Roger on during his warm-up.
Luckily for Federer though, the girls left as the match got underway - and were nowhere in sight when he lost out on the title in the semi-final against Rafael Nadal.

The next Williams sisters? The girls looked so into the game, perhaps there is a future in tennis in store

The girls were not with their mother Mirka, a former tennis player who married Federer in 2009, who did attend the match but sat elsewhere - later burying her head in her hands as she watched her husband in frustration.
Federer versus Nadal remains one of sport's great rivalries but the 30-year-old Swiss player was this time defeated.
Nadal, however, secured his place in Sunday's title decider against Novak Djokovic or Andy Murray - his fourth consecutive grand slam final - despite suffering a sudden and crippling knee pain on Sunday which threatened to end his tournament. He recovered after intensive medical attention

Luckily for Federer though, the girls left as the match got underway - and were nowhere in sight when he lost out on the title in the semi-final against Rafael Nadal

Perhaps family life has slowed Federer down.
The world no3 told said in an interview with the Independent: 'Before, I guess, mum and dad were everything, but now, in my case, I had two new girls and all of a sudden they're completely dependent on you and there's a third generation.
'It's a funny shift. You have the babies, you have yourself and then you have your parents. Unfortunately I don't have grandparents any more.
'All of a sudden it makes you realise even more what your own parents did for you and how much you owe them.'

Federer versus Nadal remains one of sport's great rivalries but the Swiss player was this time defeated

Mirka Federer puts her head in her hands as she watches her husband lose out on a place in the final

No hard feelings...Federer congratulates Nadal on securing his place in the final

source: dailymail

Victory for Jamie Oliver in the U.S. as McDonald’s is forced to stop using ‘pink slime’ in its burger recipe

2012-01-27T12:59:00.000+07:00

-TV chef was disgusted to discover ammonium hydroxide was being used by McDonald's to convert fatty beef offcuts into a beef filler for burgers
-'Why would any sensible human being want to put ammonia-filled meat into their children's mouths? asked Jamie Oliver
-McDonald's denies its hand had been forced by TV campaign

By JILL REILLY

After months of Jamie Oliver campaigning on his hit US television show, McDonald's has abandoned the beef filler from its burger patties

After years of trying to break America, Jamie Oliver has finally made his mark by persuading one of the biggest U.S fast food chains in the world to change their burger recipe.
McDonald's have altered the ingredients after the Naked Chef forced them to remove a processed food type that he labelled 'pink slime'.
The food activist was shocked when he learned that ammonium hydroxide was being used by McDonald's to convert fatty beef offcuts into a beef filler for its burgers in the USA.

Up close: Jamie shocked American audiences by showing them the raw 'pink slime' produced in the ammonium hydroxide process used by producers named Beef Products Inc (BPI)

The filler product made headlines after he denounced it on his show, Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution. 'Basically, we’re taking a product that would be sold at the cheapest form for dogs and after this process we can give it to humans' said the TV chef. Jamie showed American audiences the raw 'pink slime' produced in the ammonium hydroxide process used by producers named Beef Products Inc (BPI).
'Pink slime' has never been used in McDonald's beef patties in the UK and Ireland which source their meat from farmers within the two countries.

Tough talk: 'Basically, we're taking a product that would be sold at the cheapest form for dogs and after this process we can give it to humans' said the TV chef on his show

Now after months of campaigning on his hit US television show McDonald's have admitted defeat and the fast food giant has abandoned the beef filler from its burger patties. US Department of Agriculture microbiologist Geral Zirnstein agreed with Jamie that ammonium hydroxide agent should be banned.

Seeing is believing: Jamie and a butcher demonstrated how the 'pink slime' is made on his show 'Jamie Oliver’s Food Revolution' and said the process had no 'respect for food, or people or children'

'Pink slime' has never been used in McDonald's beef patties in the UK and Ireland which source their meat from farmers within the two countries.
Now after months of campaigning on his hit US television show McDonald's have admitted defeat and the fast food giant has abandoned the beef filler from its burger patties.

US Department of Agriculture microbiologist Geral Zirnstein agreed with Jamie that ammonium hydroxide agent should be banned.
He said: 'I do not consider the stuff to be ground beef and I consider allowing it in ground beef to be a form of fraudulent labelling.'
The defiant chef is pleased at the decision by McDonald's stop using the ammonium hydroxide processes meat.
He said: 'Why would any sensible human being want to put ammonia-filled meat into their children's mouths?

'The great American public needs to urgently understand what their food industry is doing.'
McDonald's denied its hand had been forced by Jamie's campaign.
Todd Bacon, Senior Director of U.S. Quality Systems and Supply Chain with the fast food chain, said: 'At McDonald's food safety has been and will continue to be a top priority. 'The decision to remove BPI products from the McDonald's system was not related to any particular event but rather to support our effort to align our global beef raw material standards.

Denials: McDonald's said its hand had not been forced by Jamie's campaign

'McDonald's complies with all government requirements and food safety regulations.
'Furthermore, we have our own food safety measures and standards in place throughout the entire supply chain to ensure that we serve safe, high quality food to every customer, every time they visit our restaurants.'
Two other chains Burger King and Taco Bell have earlier bowed to pressure and removed ammonium hydroxide processed ingredients from their products.
Nobody from Beef products Inc was available for comment.

source: dailymail

Amanda Holden did not see new baby Hollie Rose for three days after birth

2012-01-27T12:36:00.000+07:00

By SARA NATHAN AND BEN TODD

Separated: Amanda Holden did not see her baby Hollie Rose for three days after the birth

Amanda Holden did not see her newborn baby daughter for the first three days of her life, it was revealed last night.
The Britain’s Got Talent judge, 40, went into labour a month early on Monday and her baby Hollie Rose was delivered later that day by emergency caesarean.
She was kept apart from newborn daughter for three days while she recovered in intensive care in hospital, where she was deemed to be in a ‘critical condition’.
Last night, a source told the Daily Mail said Miss Holden was ‘stable’, adding: ‘Amanda is still extremely woozy - she has been under heavy sedation following Hollie’s birth.

‘She was in intensive care for three days, you definitely cannot bring a newborn into intensive care, so Wednesday night was the first time she could have met Hollie after doctors judged that she was stable.’
Miss Holden had gone to hospital after filming auditions for the ITV talent show, and the source added: ‘It was a life threatening situation. There was huge loss of blood and Amanda had to have a number of transfusions. She lost several pints of blood.’

Critical: The 40-year-old, pictured at BGT auditions last week, has been under heavy sedation

Miss Holden’s husband, record producer Chris Hughes yesterday thanked hospital staff for their care.
Their spokeswoman Alison Griffin said: ‘Chris would like to thank all the medical staff and everyone who has been involved in Amanda's care. They have all been absolutely fantastic.’
Hollie Rose weighed in at just over six pounds and was described as ‘healthy’. She was put into an incubator briefly following her birth, but a source said this was ‘routine’.

Gratitude: Her husband Chris Hughes publicly thanked medical staff today for their care

For Miss Holden, the arrival of her little girl marked the end of a turbulent year in which she suffered the loss of her son, who was born stillborn last February when she was seven months pregnant.
She already has a six-year-old daughter, Lexi. Complications during that pregnancy with a low lying placenta meant she gave birth by caesarean section.
Miss Holden is now expected to stay in hospital until at least the end of the week.

Growing brood: Amanda and Chris are already parents to Lexi

Speaking at the National Television Awards on Wednesday night, her fellow Britain’s Got Talent judge David Walliams revealed that he and the rest of the panel were 'worried' when they found out that Miss Holden wasn't very well.
'It's fantastic news,' he said of the birth. 'We were all worried when we were doing the show after hearing she was in hospital.’
Simon Cowell tweeted that he was ‘thrilled’ for his co-star.

source: dailymail

Not such a good Friend, after all! Jennifer Aniston snipes about best friend Chelsea Handler's hygiene and lack of talent

2012-01-27T07:29:00.000+07:00

By DAILY MAIL REPORTER

She won't be there for you, when the rain starts to fall: Jennifer Aniston lets rip at Chelsea Handler on After Lately

Jennifer Aniston and Chelsea Handler have been effusive in their proclamations of love for one another, in fact the Horrible Bosses star has declared: 'I am madly in love with Chelsea Handler.'
But what appears to be roses and champagne on the surface hides murkier depths, if a segment filmed for 36-year-old Chelsea's After Lately show is anything to go by.
In it, the razor-tongued blonde proudly introduces her A-list friend to her E! writing team and tells them that the former Friends star was tickled by a sketch they're working on.

Unloading: Jennifer dished the dirt, quite literally, on her chum after she left the room

But when Chelsea has to take a call, Aniston asks the team: 'Do you think that's funny? That is so not funny.'
The Chelsea Lately writers agree that the humour is off but defend their star by telling her friend that she's been very busy.
Then Jennifer really hits her stride, by asking sarcastically: '[Is she busy] gossiping about more successful people that are better-looking than her? Putting her name on another dumb book to make the world an even dumber place?'

Good sport: Aniston hams it up for After Lately in honour of her good friend Chelsea, to hilarious effect

Then she sardonically drawled: 'Hi, I'm Chelsea. I really think that everything I say is funny.' You know what I mean? It's a shock that she really still has her own show.'
Before asking: 'That little guy...?' To which the team chime together: 'Chewy,' referencing Handler's sidekick and comedy foil on the show.
But Aniston lampoons Joan Rivers's recent condemnation of Chelsea, by saying: 'No, the little one that she slept with to get the gig? He doesn't even work for the network anymore.'

Whipping up a storm: Aniston says she is amazed her friend has a career, and says she slept her way to the job

Aniston went on to claim that Handler is not the cleanest person, adding: 'And then her hygiene... have you noticed this? Honestly, when we were in Cabo, she never showered! She would be like, 'What? I went in the pool'. It's gross!'
Of course, it's all for fun and the former Friends star, who was recently reported to be expecting her first child with boyfriend Justin Theroux, is still besotted with her gal pal.
It has been suggested that Theroux, 40 , Handler have clashed about who gets to spend the most time with Aniston in the past, but reports of any serious strife between the trio seem precipitous.

Giving their full attention: The Chelsea team listen to Aniston's rant after their boss leaves the room

Staff writer, Heather McDonald told US Weekly: 'It was great having Jen Aniston on the show. She's super sweet, has a really hot body, the good hair.
'Jen is also a good-friend to host Chelsea, as she had no problem doing her friend a favour and making an appearance.
Heather continued: 'She's really, truly friends with Chelsea so I think that's the main reason why she did it.'
Reese Witherspoon was another actress who was given a good report by the writer after she made her second cameo on the show.
She said: 'She's just as delightful as always. I tried to bond with her because we have kids the same age, so I think that's gonna work out. I think we're gonna do some park stuff.'

Best friends: At the Glamour Awards in New York last November

source: dailymail

What's up doc? Meet the tubby bunny that guzzles BANANAS

2012-01-27T07:07:00.000+07:00

By NINA GOLGOWSKI

Bunny hug: The giant white rabbit lies back in its owner's arms in the YouTube video while munching a banana

Carrots are a more usual treat for a rabbit, but this oversized bunny clearly prefers bananas. A YouTube video captures the enormous white rabbit cradled in its owner's arms while greedily munching an equally large banana.
At times a nibbling and smacking sound can be heard - along with the cameraman's muffled laughter - as the New Zealand White nibbles away happily.

Going bananas: Smacking and munching sounds can be heard on the video as the New Zealand White rabbit tucks in

The woman cradling the rabbit speaks to the cameraman in what appears to be Slovenian and holds the peeled banana for her pet. After about a minute's guzzling, the giant rabbit squirms out of her arms and on to the floor.
University of Miami veterinarian Dr Dana Krempels said that rabbits naturally like bananas, as they do most fruit and vegetables, but they are considered treats which should be given in small quantities.

Rabbit food: But vets say that bananas and other fruit should be an occasional treat for bunnies and be given in small quantities

'Just about any fruit you would like is okay for your bunny,' Dr Krempels writes in an article titled What Should I Feed My Bunny?
However the main part of its diet should be grass hay and fresh leafy greens.
Some argue that the position in which the the rabbit is being held, lying flat on its back, promotes a relaxed state.
One English expert, referred to as a Bunny Whisperer with the Times Online, claims that holding the animals this way can tame the wildest of rabbits.
Other veterinarians argue the position is stressful for rabbits, making them feel vulnerable with their underbelly exposed.
But the New Zealand White munching happily away on its banana, legs in the air, is obviously completely relaxed, and much admired by YouTube viewers.
'CUTENESS OVERLOAD! AWWW :D!' OrkGold1 wrote.

source: dailymail

There's something p-p-peculiar about him: Rare white penguin spotted in Antarctica

2012-01-27T07:01:00.000+07:00

By DANIEL MILLER

This rare all-white Chinstrap penguin stands out against his friends as he takes his morning waddle around Antarctica

This rare all-white Chinstrap penguin stands out against his friends as he takes his morning waddle around Antarctica.
The unusual bird was photographed by naturalist David Stephens during a nature expedition to the Aitcho Islands.
Chinstrap penguins' normal black-and-white colouring provides them with camouflage while they dive for fish.

All white: The penguin was spotted during a nature expedition to Antarctica

Rare: The condition known as leucism only occurs in around 1 in 146,000 penguins

The condition which causes the whiteness is known as leucism. It differs from albinism which is a total lack of skin pigment.
Mr Stephen, who works aboard Lindblad Expeditions' National Geographic Explorer ship, wrote in the daily expedition report: 'At the water’s edge stood a leucistic Chinstrap. 'This bird was whitish, but not quite an albino. Instead, it had pigmented eyes and a washed-out version of a Chinstrap’s normal pattern.
'Many wondered about this unusual bird’s chances of success. While odd coloration may make fishing a bit more difficult, leucistic birds are regularly found breeding normally.'

Blending in: Chinstrap penguins' black and white colouring camouflages them when they dive for fish

The unusual bird was photographed by naturalist David Stephen who works aboard Lindblad Expeditions National Geographic Explorer ship

Dyan deNapoli, a penguin expert and author of 'The Great Penguin Rescue, said the rate of leucism in Chinstrap penguins is about 1 in 146,000.
He added: 'It is a fairly rare phenomenon. When I was in Antarctica, I never saw one, and I saw a lot of penguins.' Lindblad Expeditions is a travel company which works in partnership with National Geographic, providing trips to both poles.
Spokeswoman Patty Disken-Cahill said: 'Expedition photography is a big component of our expeditions. 'The photography that comes out of our ships is pretty spectacular.'

source: dailymail

Heavy metal solo? That's child's play: Meet the 8-year-old girl whose guitar skills have become a worldwide internet hit

2012-01-27T06:53:00.000+07:00

By JILL REILLY

Talented: In the video Zoe Thomson, from Thatcham, Berkshire, showcases her talents playing along with a Stratovarius backing track

An eight-year-old British girl whose guitar skills have impressed music fans across the world has released another awe-inspiring video.
In the latest clip, Zoe Thomson, from Thatcham, Berkshire, showcases her talents in a solo piece playing along to a guitar track from Finnish symphonic metal band Stratovarius.
She makes the speedy fretwork look effortless as she moves her fingers along to the Stratosphere and the video has already have over had 500,000 views.

Born to perform: At the end of the impressive solo, the eight year old looks up proudly

Since she was six years old, Zoe has performed in a series of solo clips playing the electric guitar.
She was recently signed by guitar company Daisy Rock artist roster earlier this month. Here's the skinny from a recent press release:
In a recent interview with Newbury Today, Zoe’s mother Collette said:
'Zoe is really excited; she is overjoyed. For someone of her age to get an endorsement is a massive achievement. I think you have to have something special to be endorsed, and it's really nice that someone has recognized her talent.'

Inspiration: The solo piece she played called 'Stratosphere' was from Finnish symphonic metal band Stratovarius

After watching her latest video internet users commented: 'Holy guitar prodigy batman! Outstanding :) Eddie Van Halen has nothing on you!'
Another wrote; 'Her hands are so tiny, that must make it a little harder for her, but she still shows mad skill!'
The talented youngster is part of the child group Mini Band who became an internet hit last year with a cover of Metallica's Enter Sandman.

The band made up of eight and 10-year-olds - were performing at the Bucklebury Beer Festival and a video of the song on racked up more than three million hits.
As a band the group had posted a variety of music videos online filmed in scenic locations. The US band were so impressed with the young music stars they posted a one-minute video online singing their praises. But it seems that age can sometimes affect musical progress as on the Mini Band Facebook page it states that the grip were removed from a competition 'by the organisers because they are too young! You gotta laugh, but hey, that's rock n roll for ya!'

source: dailymail

Creepy? Clever? A robotic baby built to play the role of premature infants on television

2012-01-27T06:44:00.000+07:00

By KATIE SILVER

This animatronic baby squirms about like a real premature newborn

This is really taking television props to the next level.
Watching this baby-sized animatronic robot squirm and fidget like a real newborn is incredibly creepy - its movements are built to mimic a real baby's movements, including subconscious reflexes. Designed for an unnamed British soap opera it was created by special effects designer Chris Clarke.
Mr Clarke, who was also involved in the puppet horse in Steven Spielberg’s War Horse designed the robot to mimic the movements of a real baby.
This required significant amounts of research and delving deep into infant psychology.

The robot saves television shows from using real babies

‘(A baby's) brain is still trying to figure out which electrical impulses control which body parts...I design the mechanics to move generically the way a baby does,’ he said. ‘The rest is getting into the head of the baby when puppeteering it.’
It is assumed the robot is covered in a prosthetic skin to make it lifelike, though this has not yet been confirmed.
Another said: ‘I’m sure most people would find this skinless robotic tot far from adorable or cuddly.’ Still, the robot undoubtedly serves an important cause:
‘Keep(ing) a real premature baby on set all day under hot studio lights just isn't something that's done,' Clarke told the Huffington Post.
'It can be the same for (non-premature), healthy babies too.’
The baby is so real to life it even has a Moro reflex, whereby it jumps in response to feeling like its falling.

source :dailymail

'Forced to stand for 24 hours, suicide nets, toxin exposure and explosions': Inside the Chinese factories making iPads for Apple

2012-01-27T06:37:00.000+07:00

-'Working excessive overtime without a single day off during the week'
-'Living together in crowded dorms and exposure to dangerous chemicals'
-Two explosions in 2011 in China 'due to aluminum dust' killed four workers
-Almost 140 injured after using toxin in factory, reports New York Times

By MARK DUELL

Hard grafters: Workers inside a factory of Foxconn, an Apple manufacturing partner, in the township of Longhua in the southern Guangdong province. A New York Times investigation looked at the working conditions

Working excessive overtime without a single day off during the week, living together in crowded dormitories and standing so long that their legs swell and they can hardly walk after a 24-hour shift. These are the lives some employees claim they live at Apple’s manufacturing centres in China, where the firm’s suppliers allegedly wrongly dispose of hazardous waste and produce improper records.
Almost 140 workers at a supplier in China were injured two years ago using a poisonous chemical to clean iPhone screens - and two explosions last year killed four people while injuring more than 75.

Assembly: Employees of Hon Hai Precision Industry, an Apple producer, work along a production line in the Longhua Science and Technology Park, also known as Foxconn City, in Shenzhen, China

The California tech giant had allegedly been alerted to hazardous conditions inside the Chengdu plant in southwest China before the explosions at those plants, reported the New York Times.
‘If Apple was warned and didn’t act, that’s reprehensible,’ Massachusetts Institute of Technology work safety expert Nicholas Ashford told the New York Times.

At work: Apple executives claim the firm has improved its factories in recent years and issues a supplier code of conduct on labour and safety - but problems still exist, according to labour advocacy groups

‘But what’s morally repugnant in one country is accepted business practices in another, and companies take advantage of that,’ the former U.S. Labor Department advisor added.
Banners in the Chengdu plant gave a warning to the 120,000 staff: ‘Work hard on the job today or work hard to find a job tomorrow’. Workers who arrived late often had to write confession letters.
The newspaper’s report comes hot on the heels of Apple announcing whopping $13billion profits on $46billion sales in its last quarter - but the firm still wants its overseas factories to produce more.

Unpleasant sight: Nets to prevent workers from jumping to their deaths are pictured outside one of the Foxconn factory buildings in the township of Longhua, in southern Guangdong province

Apple executives claim it has improved factories in recent years and issues a supplier code of conduct on labour and safety - but problems still exist, according to employment advocacy groups.
More than half of the suppliers audited by Apple have broken at least one part of its conduct code each year since 2007 and have even broken the law in some cases, according to company reports.

Impressive: Customers visit the Apple Store in New York City's Grand Central Station. Skyrocketing iPhone and iPad sales have helped Apple smash Wall Street expectations this week

A Foxconn employee jumped or fell from a block of flats after losing an iPhone prototype in 2009 - and 18 other workers apparently tried to commit suicide in two years, reported the New York Times.
Suicide nets were installed to prevent workers from jumping to their deaths and Foxconn began providing better mental health treatment for its staff.
Li Mingqi worked for Apple manufacturing partner Foxconn Technology until last spring and helped manage the Chengdu plant which had the explosion. He is now suing Foxconn over his dismissal.

iPad use: The report comes hot on the heels of Apple announcing whopping $13billion profits on $46billion sales in its last quarter - but the firm still wants its overseas factories to produce more

Foxconn said conditions are ‘anything but harsh’, just one in 20 workers assembly line workers must stand to do their jobs and the firm has a ‘very good safety record’, reported the New York Times.
But the Mail on Sunday visited a Foxconn factory making iPods in Shenzhen, China, in 2006, and our reports on long hours, crowded accommodation and punishments shocked Apple executives.
‘We’re trying really hard to make things better,’ one former Apple executive told the New York Times. ‘But most people would still be really disturbed if they saw where their iPhone comes from.’

Treatment: A victim injured by an explosion at a Foxconn factory in May arrives at a hospital in Chengdu

Panic: Smoke rises as police and onlookers stand near at a Foxconn factory in Chengdu, China, last May

source: dailymail

Parents’ fury after 5-year-old daughter who bravely battled brain cancer is forced to clean up after wetting herself in classroom

2012-01-27T06:24:00.000+07:00

-Liberty Rose Finn's battle with cancer left her with disabilities which causes her to often wet herself
-Teacher forced her to clean up urine in front of her classmates
-Youngster was also told to stand facing the wall for 10 minutes

By ANTHONY BOND

Brave: Liberty Rose Finn recovered from cancer but the illness results in her occasionally wetting herself. Her mother Dawn is furious after her daughter was forced to clean up her own urine after wetting herself at school

A five-year-old girl who recovered from a brain tumour was forced to clean up her own urine in front of her classmates after wetting herself.
Liberty Rose Finn underwent nine grueling months of chemotherapy to overcome cancer.
But the illness left her with disabilities which often result in her wetting herself.
After an accident in the classroom at Church Gresley Infant and Nursery School, in Swadlincote, south Derbyshire, the youngster was forced to clean up her own mess in front of her classmates. A teacher then ordered her to stand facing a wall for 10 minutes. It left her parents Carl and Dawn Finn furious. Initially they kept quiet about the incident while the school conducted an investigation.

Little fighter: Liberty in hospital suffering from cancer at just nine months old

But the couple decided to break their silence after receiving a letter from the school which said it had ‘fully investigated’ the incident and the ‘matter had been dealt with’.
It also said appropriate action had been taken and the member of staff concerned ‘deeply regrets what has happened’.
The family, from Castle Gresley Swadlincote, have now hit back over the way the incident was handled.

Furious: Liberty's parents are unhappy with the way their daughter's school handled their complaint

Mr Finn said: 'We strongly feel that the school, the board of governors and the education authority are trying to quietly sweep the matter under the carpet.
'The teacher wasn’t suspended while the investigation was carried out.
'We have been told the governors have looked into the matter and they reassure us that our child’s welfare is of paramount importance and that appropriate action has been taken. However, they have not told us what the action was.
'My wife and I have watched our daughter bravely battle cancer. We have seen her inspire thousands and thousands of people.

Inspiration: Liberty-Rose Finn, left, with her twin sister Destiny during treatment for cancer at 18 months old. She was forced to stand by a wall for 10 minutes after wetting herself in class

'My wife and I have watched our daughter bravely battle cancer. We have seen her inspire thousands and thousands of people. 'We will not see her humiliated in public. We cannot let this matter go with just a warning.'
Liberty was eight months old when she was diagnosed with optic chaism glioma - a tumour around her optical nerve which meant it could never be operated on due to its size and location.

However, after nine months of chemotherapy, the tumour vanished, making Liberty the first person on record to beat such a tumour. Mr and Mrs Finn said they were horrified as their daughter and her twin sister, Destiny, told them what had happened. Mr Finn added: 'My daughter has been left with special needs after bravely fighting a brain tumour and was subjected to what I can only describe as an act of public humiliation. 'Liberty Rose was made t o clean her own urine off the classroom floor and made to do this while still in her soiled clothes.'

Her parents are now appealing against the decision by the board of governors and have contacted Derbyshire County Council.
However, a spokesman for the education authority said: 'We are not going to investigate the matter.
'We have spoken to the acting head teacher, and the school has apologised to the parents and has taken action to make sure it doesn’t happen again.'
The teacher involved has been the subject of criticism on the social network site Facebook.

source: dailymail

Paedophile of 'the most sickening order' was able to film himself abusing girls in primary school classrooms because bosses did NOTHING despite 30 war

2012-01-27T06:14:00.000+07:00

-Nigel Leat was jailed indefinitely for abusing five girls - some as young as six
-Teachers at Hillside First School, in Weston-Super-Mare, complained...
-... but managers did nothing about his increasingly sexual behaviour
-The 51-year-old continued to work at the primary school for 15 years
-He was finally arrested when victim told her mother she had been sexually abused almost every day for TWO MONTHS

By DAILY MAIL REPORTER

Paedophile: Nigel Leat, a married father-of-two, breaks down during questioning by police

A teacher was able to film himself abusing young girls in his classroom because school bosses failed to act on his increasingly sexual behaviour, a damning report concluded today. Nigel Leat, 51, was described by a judge as a 'paedophile of the most sickening order' when he was jailed indefinitely last year after abusing five girls - some as young as six years old.

Sentence: Leat was given an indefinite jail term for his actions

Leat, of Bristol, admitted 36 offences, including attempted rape of a child and sexual assault on children. Police also found more than 30,000 indecent photographs on memory sticks. Senior managers at Hillside First School in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset, had repeatedly been told of the married father of two's inappropriate behaviour by fellow teachers but failed to act.
The school's own management report notes at least 30 incidents of Leat's 'inappropriate or unprofessional conduct' - but only 11 were recorded formally within the school.
These included the teacher taking photographs of pupils on his mobile phone, of kissing and cuddling them and even one of him aroused while sitting with a pupil on cushions in the library.
Leat's actions only came to light in December 2010 when one of his victims told her mother that he had sexually assaulted her almost daily for the previous two months. The woman called police and Leat was arrested.
The shocking catalogue of failed opportunities to tackle Leat was revealed in a serious case review by North Somerset Safeguarding Children Board published today, which made 32 recommendations for improvement.

Abuse: Leat worked at Hillside First School, in Weston-Super-Mare, where staff complained but were ignored

It revealed:
20 pupils were witnesses or victim of abuse committed by Leat
His behaviour was 'typical of the grooming' perpetrated by paedophiles
He picked 'favourites' who were frequently less academic, needy or vulnerable
Teachers were concerned enough to get these girls moved to other classes
One reported Leat in his underpants and T-shirt getting changed in his classroom
Another was told not to insinuate things after finding photos of Leat posing with a girl
There were also concerns raised about his lax and uninspiring teaching
Despite all these fears, he was able to remain at the primary school for 15 years

Leat joined the school in September 1995 as a newly-qualified teacher, having previously worked as a musician and music teacher.
The report noted that within a year of his appointment - and throughout his time at the school - a number of teaching and support staff in the school had a variety of concerns about him.
'Early on it was noticed that the teacher had favourite pupils within his class who were invariably girls, who were often given tasks within the class which were viewed as privileges as well as being given greater personal attention by the teacher,' the authors said.

source: dailymail

Where's Austin when you need him... Cringe moment for Vanessa Hudgens as bikini top pops open

2012-01-26T21:09:00.000+07:00

By LUCY BUCKLAND

Caught out: Vanessa Hudgens clasp bikini top pinged open as she went to bathe in the sea, luckily she acted just in time

Since being in Hawaii Vanessa Hugens has been giving her boyfriend Austin Butler a lot of attention.
Yet with typical luck her gorgeous beau was nowhere to be seen when he was truly needed, after the 23-year-old's bikini top popped open on the Hawaii sands.
Luckily the former High School Musical star was quick-thinking as she rushed to cover up her assets, flicking a flirty smile to waiting photographs.

Cringe: Vanessa looks increbily embarassed as her top pings open just as she enters the sea

Although her multi-coloured bikini showed off her perfect figure, Hudgens looked slightly mortified that she may be showing off a little too much.
Luckily, the Hollywood starlet had a sun shade set up and after a moments indecision the natural beauty ran over and clasped her bikini back together again.
The actress has been in Hawaii for the last ten days promoting her new film Journey 2: The Mysterious Island over the weekend.

Just in the nick of time! Vanessa tries to discreetly cover up to avoid flashing photographers

Stunning: Vanessa Hudgens slipped into a long white halterneck maxi dress with embroidered detail for a series of stunning photographs to promote her new movie Journey 2: The Mysterious Island

Promotional material for the film shows Hudgens in a far more sophisticated look in a long white halterneck maxi dress with embroidered detail for a series of stunning photographs.
With barely any make-up on her flawless complexion, Vanessa is glowing in the snaps and wears her brunette locks out in a natural wave.
Staying with the tropical theme she accessorises with some coral stone earrings and a tropical purple orchid tucked behind her ear.
Perching on some trees in an idyllic setting close to the beach, she is the epitome of a beautiful island girl.

source: dailymail

Would YOU let your teenage daughter sleep with a boyfriend in your home?

2012-01-26T21:03:00.000+07:00

By HELEN CARROLL

Trusting: Sarah Watts allowed her 16-year-old daughter Alicia to sleep with her boyfriend at her house and even bought them their own double bed

When Sarah Watts’s 16-year-old daughter Alicia asked if her boyfriend of three months could stay the night, she wasn’t outraged or upset. Instead, she responded in a way that would horrify many parents — she went out and bought Alicia a double bed so she could sleep with boyfriend Matt in comfort.
Now 17 and a sixth-former studying for A-levels, Alicia and Matt, an 18-year-old photographic student, spend many nights together under Sarah’s roof.
The arrangement is a far cry from the way Sarah, 46, conducted her own teenage relationships.

Boys allowed: Alexandra Fisher, 18, pictured with her mother Alice, has been allowed to have boyfriends stay over since she turned 16

‘My father was very authoritarian and would never have let my boyfriends stay over,’ says the customer services advisor from Norwich. ‘But, like it or not, teenagers will have sex, and my father’s attitude meant I took all kinds of risks without my parents knowing — drinking too much and being rather cavalier about contraception.
‘With hindsight, I think I was rebelling against being told what to do and my parents not giving me the respect I felt I deserved as an emerging adult.
‘I want to know where my daughter is at night and who she’s with. Letting her boyfriend stay is the best way of ensuring her safety.’

Morning-after pill reliance: Many teens are not using contraception - is it because they can't be open about sex with their parents? (posed by model)

According to a new book, Not Under My Roof, Sarah’s approach is a very sensible one.
Author and academic Amy Schalet argues that the reason the teenage pregnancy rate in the United States is eight times higher than the Netherlands is because Dutch parents adopt a far more liberal approach to adolescent sex, with two-thirds of those in Holland allowing their teenagers’ partners to sleep over.
‘In Dutch families there is an expectation that sex should take place in steady relationships in which both teens are in love,’ says Schalet. ‘Dutch parents don’t want teenage sex to be a secret. They want to stay connected with their teens and be able to exercise influence and provide support.’

‘Parents who allow their teenagers to share a bed with their boyfriend or girlfriend may imagine they are being very open and progressive, but in reality they are helping to break down the very boundaries children need.’
Psychologist David Spellman agrees, saying that although some teenagers may push boundaries, they still rely on their parents to make the right decisions for them.
‘Of course when parents say “No” their children will complain. But on some level, they also know they are being looked out for.
‘As parents we need to have the courage sometimes to take a position and let our children know we are not OK with certain things.’

source: dailymail

Fire and ice: Dragon rises out of the water in frozen Antarctic wilderness

2012-01-26T20:50:00.000+07:00

By DAILY MAIL REPORTER

Stunning: The blue Antarctic sky is punctuated by the dragon-shaped iceburg

The majestic Antarctic landscape never fails to amaze.
But the awe-inspiring wilderness offered up an unusual display for one photographer - in the shape of a dragon carved into an iceberg.
Discovered deep in the Antarctic Peninsula near Peterman Island, the shape stood out against the endless white scenery which surrounded the formation. But despite the remarkable resemblance to the mythical fire-breathing creature, those lucky enough to witness the moment first hand initially saw it as a thumb.

Frolic: Seals soak up the weak rays of Antarctic sun which helped carve the extraordinary shaped in the ice

However on closer inspection the group, who spotted the shape just two weeks ago, discovered it was in fact an exact replica of a dragon.
The incredible images were taken by keen Russian snapper Kseniia Maiukova, 28, who couldn't believe her eyes as she spotted the silhouette against the infinite blue sky. She said: ‘One evening while on a tourist trip there were seven of us on a zodiac boat in the bay surrounded by icebergs.

Rearing up: Out of the endless snowscape rises the stunning silhouette

‘There were dozens of them all around us, all of different shapes and sizes it was a really amazing view and a feeling very hard to describe with words.
‘This dragon-shaped iceberg attracted my sight from the beginning - in fact almost all seven of us noticed it at once and started to photograph it.
‘At first we thought it looked a bit like a thumb - then when we got back on land it suddenly became clear it looks exactly like a dragon.
‘I was full of emotions and will never forget this trip, it had always been my dream.’

source: dailymail

Call of the wild: How a Co-op security guard left Manchester, slipped on a loincloth and became Tarzan, King of the Jungle

2012-01-26T20:42:00.000+07:00

Wildman: Tarzan fan DeWet Du Toit spends his days swinging through the African jungle and sleeping in the wild at night.

He used to be a security guard at a Co-op food store in Manchester but now DeWet Du Toit IS Tarzan. The 24-year-old hung up his uniform and slipped into a leopardskin loin cloth to swing through the trees just like the jungle hero he idolises.
Obsessed by the celluloid wildman, DeWet spends his days swinging through the African jungle.

He can talk to the animals? Unemployed DeWet Du Toit strokes a cheetah as he lives the dream of being just like his hero Tarzan

And just like the fictional character the 24-year-old uses vines and tree branches to propel himself through the undergrowth while bellowing Tarzan’s famous jungle cry.
Currently single, he is looking for his perfect Jane to keep him company on those long nights in the bush.

Jungle friends: The 24-year-old gave up his job as a security guard in Manchester to live like Tarzan

The jobless bodybuilder first became captivated by the fictional jungle warrior who lived with his monkey friend Cheetah in the original movies, when he lived in Namibia and his father was a Tarzan comic and book collector.

Hold tight: The bodybuilder gets to grip with a slippery customer on one of his three days a week as Tarzan

DeWet now spends all his time training his body and senses to adapt to the call of the wild. And he spends three days a week swinging on vines, swimming across rivers and running up mountains near his home in George, South Africa, where when he is not in character he lives with his parents Ludolf and Ida, both 53, and his twin brother Rudolph. His training also includes dodging snakes and sleeping trees.

Spot the difference: DeWet has modelled himself on the original movie Tarzan, Johnny Weissmuller, right.

The farmer's son said: 'I’m like Tarzan in so many ways. My best friend is an elephant called Shaka, and I spend more time with monkeys, zebras and crocodiles than I do with people. 'People might say I’m crazy, but I know this is what I was born to do.' He explained: 'I make a platform in a tree to keep away from prowling leopards and snakes on the ground. 'It does get lonely - I would love to find a Jane to help me pass the time.'

Blademan: DeWet strikes a survival pose as he lives out his dream of becoming Tarzan in South Africa

But he added: 'I’m not the kind of guy who loves partying, I certainly never get drunk. 'I prefer to eat the fruits and berries that I find in the jungle. I also know what insects to eat. 'It would take a special kind of girl that could join me in the jungle.'

Help at hand: The would-be Tarzan is filmed getting on to an elephant. In the movies Johhny Weissmuller leapt easily onto Tantor, his trusted elephant companion, in the original movies.

Hitching a ride: DeWet sits atop an elephant as he recreates the role of Tarzan made famous by the original Hollywood star, Johhny Weissmuller

When he is not running through the undergrowth DeWet helps his dad Ludolf put up fences on his ranch. In 2006 DeWet and his twin travelled to the UK where he worked as a security guard and delivery driver for one year. But for now DeWet has his sights set on being the star of the next Hollywood Tarzan movie

Looking for Jane: Unemployed DeWet spends three days a week in the jungle when he is not living with his parents and brother and says he is looking for the right girl to share long nights in the wild

He said: 'I started training in 2007 and since then I have made big strides.
'Recently I was in contact with some guys from the USA about going over to a Tarzan convention. 'Everyone round here is talking about it. People are very excited - they didn’t think I was going to make it.'

Animal magic: A cheetah stands quietly as DeWet strokes the animal

source: dailymail

The ghost at the window: Dead owner 'returns to haunt' builders demolishing her beloved guesthouse

2012-01-26T20:31:00.000+07:00

-Frances Grimshaw would stand for hours at the guest house window awaiting visitors and taking bookings
-Her son believes she appeared to protest against the demolition of the building she loved

By ANTHONY BOND

Bizarre: Builders took this picture of a guest house they were demolishing and noticed this ghost-like figure. David Grimshaw is certain that it is his mother Frances, who worked at the guest house

When a demolition team began work at a derelict Victorian guest house they all agreed that something didn't feel quite right.
One day, they claimed, a chandelier suddenly started swinging on its own, which understandably left the burly builders feeling slightly unsettled.
But it was only when one of the team took a photograph of the building that they suddenly became convinced they had not been working alone.

Back from the dead: Frances Grimshaw worked at Meadowbank House. Her son believes she may have appeared to protest at the demolition of the building

The image appears to show the ghostly outline of a woman at the window of Meadowbank House, in Kendal, Cumbria.
After researching the history of the building they realised the chilling significance of what they’d photographed.
The ghostly image was an eerie likeness of Frances Grimshaw who worked at the guest house and died almost a year ago.
Bizarrely, she stood for hours at that very same window taking bookings.
Her son, and former resident David Grimshaw, says he had no doubt that the ghostly woman is his late mother.
He believes she may have appeared to protest at the demolition of Meadowbank House, the building she loved.

Left feeling strange: Demolition worker Robert Johnson with Stuart Shan, right, and Paul Jackson,left. Mr Johnson took the picture of the house which revealed the ghostly image

'That is my mother. I’m totally convinced - no one else looks like that.
'She had glasses and big earrings and she used to wear a dress with a bow at the front,' he said.
'She used to stand in that room for hours on the phone - it was the guest house reception and she took bookings from there.'
Mr Grimshaw, 59-year-old managing director, who now lives in Bedford, added: 'She would have been horrified if she had known the house was being demolished because it was beautiful, so maybe that is why she’s turned up.'

Destroyed: David Grimshaw said his late mother would have been horrified if she had known the house was being demolished

Demolition supervisor Robert Johnson, 38, of Heysham, took the photograph of the house shortly before it was knocked down, earlier this week.
It was only later that he realised there was a ghostly woman at the window.
'It wasn’t until I got home and showed my wife that we spotted the woman,' he said.
'You can see the jewellery on her and everything. I’ve always been a sceptic but I’ll have to believe in ghosts now.'

Pleasant: How Meadowbank House looked before it was demolished

Demolition worker Paul Jackson, of Carnforth, Lancashire, said the ghostly sighting made him feel slightly strange about their role in taking down old buildings.
'It makes you wonder what we could possibly unearth,' he said.
Dave Armstrong, of Kendal contractors Cox and Allen, said the five-gabled building, which was originally a dentist’s in the early 1900s, has been taken down to be replaced with a new commercial property.
He said he could not explain the image of the woman.
'There was only a black wall behind the window, we had taken everything out - there were no visible features or anything with a skin colour.'

source: dailymail

Life after Kim Kardashian: Single guy Kris Humphries opens the doors of his remodelled bachelor pad

2012-01-26T18:13:00.000+07:00

By IONA KIRBY

Moving on: Kris Humphries has transformed his Minnesota home into a bachelor pad

He is currently going through a divorce, so it’s no surprise that Kris Humphries is looking for a fresh start.
And while the legal proceedings may only just be under way, the basketball star has been distracting himself with a new beginning in another area of his busy life.
The 26-year-old has decided to remodel his Minnesota home and transform it into a bachelor pad.

The New Jersey Nets player has decorated his basement in the hope of moving on from his failed marriage to reality star Kim Kardashian.
And he has also decked out the space with high-tech gadgets in order to compliment his new life as a single man.
The sports star told the new issue of Life & Style magazine: ‘Remodelling my place felt great. It was the perfect way to kick off the season and have a fresh start.’

State of the art: Kris has redecorated and installed a series of bachelor worthy gadgets

But he didn’t do it alone, instead enlisting the help of Jason Cameron and Tony Siragusa, the stars of DIY show Man Caves.
Kris chose a burgundy paint for his bedroom, and had his initials stencilled above his bed in white.

Helping hand: Kris helps by getting stuck into the DIY process

He also installed state of the art equipment to ensure his home became every bachelor’s dream.
Jason told the magazine: ‘He wanted a cool, modern space where he could hang out with his buddies and play video games or watch TV.

Meet the team: Kris poses with Man Caves stars Jason Cameron and Tony Siragusa, who remodelled his home

‘Kris is a nice guy. You could tell he was ready to start a new chapter in his life.'
Kris, who was married to 31-year-old Kim for a mere 72 days, added: ‘I look forward to spending my off-time here.’
He will feature on Man Caves, which airs in the US on the DIY Network, on January 27 at 9 p.m. EST.

Team player: The basketball star said he wants a home his friends can hang out in

Short-lived: Kris was married to reality star Kim Kardashian for just 72 days

source :dailymail

Hooked on chicken nuggets: Girl, 17, who has eaten nothing else since age TWO warned junk food diet will kill her

2012-01-26T18:01:00.000+07:00

By JULIAN GAVAGHAN

Killing herself: Stacey Irvine, 17, eats little else apart from chicken nuggets. She recently collapsed after struggling to breathe and was rushed to hospital

A teenage girl who has eaten almost nothing else apart from chicken nuggets for 15 years has been warned by doctors that the junk food is killing her.
Stacey Irvine, 17, has been hooked on the treats since her mother bought her some at a McDonald’s restaurant when she was two.
Shocked doctors learned of her habit when the factory worker, from Castle Vale, Birmingham, was rushed to hospital after struggling to breathe and eventually collapsing.

Headache: Miss Irvine struggles to find room for all the free toys she's got with meals

Miss Irvine, who has never eaten fruit or vegetables, had swollen veins in her tongue and was found to have anaemia. Medics gave her a series of injections and started her on an urgent course of vitamins.
But, despite being warned that she could die if she stuck to her nugget addiction, she still can’t resist the fast food.
One of her favourite pastimes is sharing 20 nuggets and a portion of fries with her boyfriend.
But the craving is costing her health – and also means she is struggling to find places to store all the free toys and novelties that come with the meals. They currently fill four bin bags.

‘She's been told in no uncertain terms that she'll die if she carries on like this. But she says she can't eat anything else.’ She once tried starving her daughter in a bid to get her to eat more nutritious food – but did not have any success.
In a small portion of fries are 230 calories, 11g of fat, 29g of carbohydrates, 3g protein and 160mg sodium.

If Miss Irvine were to eat three portions of each in a day she would eat a third more fat and almost double the amount of salt than is recommended.
Also each portion of chicken nuggets contains just 2 per cent of our daily vitamin C requirement, compared to 106 per cent in an orange.
Not much better are the fries, which contain 8 per cent of our vitamin C needs.

source: dailymail

Making Paris look curvy: Nicky Hilton shows off painfully thin legs as the sisters go shopping

2012-01-26T17:45:00.000+07:00

By MIKE LARKIN

Bone of contention: Nicky Hilton drew attention away from Paris in Beverly Hills today due to her extremely skinny pins

It is not very often that ultra-thin Paris Hilton is outdone in the skinniness stakes
But her little sister Nicky managed to do it when they went shopping in Beverly Hills today. The self-described businesswoman showed off her painfully thin legs as the dynamic duo went hunting for sunglasses. The 28-year-old socialite's bony pins were made even more eye-catching thanks to the high hemline of her dress
Whether she is truly skinnier than her more famous big sister is up for debate however.

Making a point: Nicky Hilton finally managed to outshine her sister Paris thanks to her painfully thin legs

No doubt Paris would argue that she was at a visual disadvantage due to the jeans that rounded off her ensemble of black and white hooped top and cardigan.
Shrewd heiress Nicky was later seen checking her mobile phone as she browsed a store in the upmarket district of Los Angeles.

Sharing her wisdom: Nicky may have been updating her Twitter page as she waited

Who needs Alan Watts? Nicky tweeted her her own words of wisdom

And it seems she may have been using the opportunity to send her fans some words of wisdom.
Earlier today she tweeted: 'Life is a book. Everyday is a new page. Every month is a new chapter. Every year is a new series.'
Of course she did not explain how a year can be a series when life itself is one book, perhaps because she had invented a mind-bending Zen-style proverb.
While her sister was indulging in philosophy Paris was far more interested in a more important aspect of life - shopping.
The Simple Life star looked at a variety of designer sunglasses, though the price tag is doubtlessly irrelevant for the 30-year-old, who has an estimated net worth of $100 million.

Cheap at double the price: It is unlikely Paris worried about how much these cost

source: dailymail

Giving the guys a reason to hit the gym? Ashley Tisdale dons

2012-01-26T17:38:00.000+07:00

By JADE WATKINS

Leggy lady: Ashley Tisdale paraded her supremely toned legs in a pair of tiny short as she left the Byron and Tracy salon in Beverly Hills today

As the old saying goes 'if you've got 'em, flaunt 'em.
And it seems that Ashley Tisdale did just that as she paraded her supremely toned legs in a pair of tiny work-out shorts today.
Leaving the Byron and Tracy salon in Beverly Hills, it appeared that the 26-year-old actress had been to her daily workout before going in for a spot of grooming.

Busy day: The 26-year-old actress appeared to had been at the gym before going in for a spot of grooming

The High School Musical star paired the leggy look with a very low-cut hot pink T-shirt worn over a blue sports bra, a burgundy-colored cardigan and some runners.
Her hair looked perfectly coiffed and bouncy as she left the establishment and hopped into her Mercedes SUV.
The trip to the salon was the second in a matter of days for the starlet, who was there to get her roots touched up and cut over the weekend.

And it appeared that the new hairdo on that day got her in the mood to party.
The actress later tweeted a picture of herself and a group of friends as they posed by an expensive-looking car before heading out for a night on the town.
And it certainly seemed as though she had a good time of it.

Sexy snap: Yesterday Tisdale posted a sexy picture of herself wearing a black dress and over-the-knee tights with the caption '#roleplaying'

The actress later posted a series of photos of herself posing sexily on her Twitter page. With the simple caption: '#whenthemusicsloud' accompanying the four pictures, Tisdale looked worlds away from the innocent Disney characters that she is used to portraying. Wearing a simple white T-shirt that has visible holes in it, the blonde stood with her hand on her hip, biting her finger and ruffling her refreshed hair.

Strike a pose: Tisdale tweeted photos of herself dancing on a night out with friends last weekend

Not so innocent: She looked worlds away from the Disney characters that she has previously portrayed

Tisdale was no doubt enjoying the night out and showed off her dance moves when the photos were taken. It is unsure whether her new boyfriend had joined her for the evening though.

source: dailymail

First look: A bald Cynthia Nixon plays a convincing cancer patient on Broadway

2012-01-26T16:58:00.000+07:00

By ALANAH ERIKSEN

Playing the part: Former Sex and the City star Cynthia Nixon, left, and co-star Carra Patterson in a scene from Wit at New York's Samuel J. Friedman Theatre

She has the look down pat, now all Cynthia Nixon needs is the rave reviews.
The former Sex and the City star can be seen playing a convincing cancer patient in these publicity shots for her new Bradway show, Wit, which starts today.
The 45-year-old boldly shaved off her trademark red hair for the role of ailing professor Vivian Bearing at New York's Samuel J. Friedman Theatre.
And it looks as though she may have even lost weight.
The mother-of-three can we seen sitting in a hospital bed, eating an iced-lolly, with her nurse, played by Carra Patterson.

Ailing: Cynthia looked as though she had lost weight to play the role of cancer-stricken professor, Vivian Bearing

In another shot, she can be seen giving a lecture while in her scrubs, wearing a red hat to cover her bare head.
She unveiled a stark new look on Live With Kelly this week.
Kelly Ripa began the interview with the quip: 'So what's new?'

Giving it her all: The actress alongside co-star Greg Keller, who plays her doctor

After the blonde host complimented the star on the shape of her head, Cynthia said: 'I thought it was kind of gonna be no muss-no fuss, but I have to shave it every day!
'It's got kind of a five o'clock shadow, and you don't want to go on with that,' she continued.

On the stage: Cynthia plays cancer stricken poetry professor Vivian Bearing

'I was always kind of curious to see what it would be like. I like it; I don't think I'm gonna keep it forever.'
She follows the footsteps of Who’s the Boss actress Judith Light, who also shaved her hair for the same role a decade ago.
Of course, it is a role close to Nixon's heart - she herself discovered she had the early stages of breast cancer during a routine mammogram in 2006.

Stark look: Cynthia unveiled her bald head this week on Live with Kelly

She had a lumpectomy and radiation - but no chemotherapy - and continues to take the drug Tamoxifen, which blocks the actions of estrogen and is used to treat and prevent some types of breast cancer.
Of her stage character, Cynthia said: 'She's really at the top of her profession. She's a professor of 17th century poetry. She's the best; she knows she's the best
'She gets a really bad cancer diagnosis and she goes through this really heavy-duty chemo and she meets that challenge, but she learns a lot about herself.'

Blitz: The former Sex and the City star is promoting her new play Wit

Meanwhile, Nixon has also opened up about her sexuality in a candid new interview.
The star, who is engaged to her long-term partner Christine Marinoni - with who she has an 11-month-old son Max - says it was her decision to become a lesbian.
Cynthia - who was with former partner Danny Mozes for 15 years and had two children, Samantha, 15, and nine-year-old Charlie, with him - said: 'I gave a speech recently, an empowerment speech to a gay audience, and it included the line 'I've been straight and I've been gay, and gay is better.

Trademark look: Cynthia played redhead Miranda alongside Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall and Kristin Davis in the TV series and spin-off films

'And they tried to get me to change it, because they said it implies that homosexuality can be a choice. And for me, it is a choice. I understand that for many people it's not, but for me it's a choice, and you don't get to define my gayness for me.

Family: The star with her partner Christine Marinoni and their son Max in February last year

source :dailymail

The boys are back in town: David Beckham gets out dressed as he bonds with a dapper Scott Disick at a basketball game

2012-01-26T16:49:00.000+07:00

By J J ANISIOBI

Boys will be boys: David Beckham and Scott Disick bond over a game of basketball at the Staples Center, yesterday in Los Angeles

The boys were back in town for a lads only night yesterday in Los Angeles.
Two of the world's most fashionable men shared some bonding time at the Staples Center and left their famous partners at home.
Local residents David Beckham and Scott Disick attended a basketball game between the Los Angeles Clippers and the Los Angeles Lakers and enjoyed a night of banter as the home team went on to win 96-91.
L.A Galaxy footballer David was dressed casually in a pair of jeans and a white T-shirt that showed off his tattooed arms.

Golden balls: David was very jolly sitting courtside at the Lakers basketball game

The 36-year-old, who normally attends Lakers games with his sons, also wore a green beanie and very worn brown suede boots and was thoroughly out done in the fashion stakes by his famous friend.
Keeping Up With The Kardashians star Scott is known for his savvy style and chic look and the American model didn't disappoint as he sat courtside next to Becks.

The fashion police: David was out done for a change in the fashion stakes as Scott looked chic

The father-of-two was clean shaven and wore a shiny grey suit and a blue shirt with a pair of his trademark black suede loafers.
Scott, 28, wasn't wearing any socks with the outfit but he was sporting a rather expensive looking gold watch.
The two celebrities shared a few jokes and took full advantage of the guys only night by intently watching the Laker Girls perform during the game.

Star quality: Scott looked great in his suit with no socks while David was very casual in jeans and a T-shirt

Professional sportsman David may not have been dressed as well as Scott but he was treated as a slightly bigger VIP and was greeted by Lakers player Pau Gasol.
Becks recently admitted that he never wanted to become famous and he only desired to play football.
Maybe the father-of-four should avoid watching basketball games from the most expensive seats in the house with his celebrity mates.

Looking good: David admires the Lakers girls as he watches on from the best seats in the house

David has just signed a new two-year deal with the Galaxy and will be hoping to return to England this summer to compete in the Olympics.
He told Men's Health: 'I’d like to play for a GB football team because it’s something that hasn’t happened for many, many years. Hopefully I’ll be fit, hopefully I’ll be in form and hopefully I’ll be playing.'

Superstars: Los Angeles Lakers player Pau Gasol greets David as he warms up before the game

source: dailymail

I love... my daddy! Suri gets her face painted with hearts as she's treated to a trip to Disneyland by father Tom Cruise

2012-01-26T16:40:00.000+07:00

By JADE WATKINS

Daddy's girl: Suri Cruise enjoyed a fun-filled day at Disneyland, California today with her father Tom

He has recently been busy working on the Pittsburgh set of his latest movie One Shot.
But after wrapping up filming Tom Cruise took time out to spend some quality father/daughter time with his precious little girl Suri today.
The 49-year-old actor was seen enjoying a fun-filled day at Disneyland in California with the five-year-old. And he certainly treated his pride and joy.
Suri was seen with her face painted in a pink and red design adorned with hearts, and busily sipped on a tasty beverage.

Cute: Suri was seen with her face painted in a pink and red design adorned with hearts

The pampered tot was, of course, all dressed up for the occasion, wearing a purple dress paired with a pink and white polka dot cardigan and some black flats.
Reaching out for his daughter's hand, Tom guided her through the crowds, who all stopped to do a double take of the famous father and daughter duo.
Suri's mother Katie Holmes was noticeably absent from the excursion, and it's rare to see her not by her side.

The last time mother and daughter were seen out together was two weekends ago when they ventured out in New York City.
During the outing Suri was almost dwarfed by a giant Angelina Ballerina doll.
She was dolled up in a faux fur coat, sundress and carried a sparkly pink handbag as she made her way out for the evening.
Suri's nanny was in charge of toting the super-size doll to the car.

Tasty treat: The five-year-old busily sipped on a tasty beverage

With Tom recently working hard on One Shot, Suri and Katie had been indulging plenty of mother/daughter time together.
Earlier this month the ladies also enjoyed a production of Mary Poppins on Broadway.
And while Tom may not have hired out the whole theme park today, it is not rare for him to make those kind of generous gestures for his daughter

Making a scene: Suri and Tom turned heads as they walked through the crowds

The Cruise family spent Christmas in New York, where Tom and Katie are alleged to have spent $5,000 on a luxury skating excursion for Suri at the famed Rockefeller Center ice rink.
According to reports, the actor hired out the entire VIP 'Igloo' area for them to escape to in between trips around the rink.
'Tom rented it for an entire session so no one else could use it,' a source told The New York Post.

Mommy and me: Earlier this month Suri was seen spending quality time with her mother Katie Holmes

source: dailymail

Pictured: Miley Cyrus poses provocatively with birthday cake at boyfriend Liam Hemsworth's party

2012-01-26T16:31:00.000+07:00

By ELEANOR GOWER

Miley Cyrus posed provocatively with a very naughty cake at her boyfriend Liam Hemsworth's birthday party at Club Icon in Downtown LA on Saturday night

She made her name as loveable Disney schoolgirl-turned songstress Hannah Montana.
But 19-year-old Miley Cyrus has made quite a departure from her squeaky clean former alter ego. In an image which will shock her young fans, the singer and actress posed provocatively with an X- rated cake for her boyfriend Liam Hemsworth's birthday this weekend.

Birthday surprise: The star's boyfriend, pictured on January 11 in Los Angeles, turned 22

In pictures on website TMZ, Miley is seen bending down with her tongue out towards the phallic-shaped cake at the bash, held at Club Icon in Downtown Los Angeles.
The very rude confection featured a 'Happy Birthday' message to Australian actor Liam who turned 22 on January 13.
Photographs show the star, who met Liam on the set of the film The Last Song, striking a number of provocative poses towards the cake, including one where she is brandishing a cake knife. She is also seen holding a giant orange drink up towards the camera. Sources tell TMZ that Miley was allegedly 'drinking alcohol and partying all night.'

Growing up fast: Miley seemed to appear without her bra in West Hollywood last week

This is not the first time Miley's partying has come under the microscope.
Last year, the singer stunned guests at her birthday party at Hollywood's Roosevelt hotel when she told them she was a 'stoner,' after being presented with a Bob Marley cake. 'You know you’re a stoner when your friends make you a Bob Marley cake,' the star exclaimed on footage from the party.
'You know you smoke way too much f***ing weed!'
The incident came after footage was taken of the star using a bong to inhale the legal herb salvia the previous year.

Teen icon: Miley made her name playing Disney schoolgirl-turned pop star Hannah Montana

source: dailymail

Ebony and Ivory together again: Stevie Wonder and Paul McCartney reunite 30 years on

2012-01-26T16:10:00.000+07:00

By IONA KIRBY

Ebony and Ivory: Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder are working together 30 years after their hit duet was released

30 years have passed since they first worked together on their hit record Ebony and Ivory. And now music legends Stevie Wonder, 61, and Paul McCartney, 69, have reunited for another joint project.
They both feature on a track entitled Only Our Hearts, which is from Paul’s new album Kisses on the Bottom.

30 years ago: The pair released Ebony and Ivory in 1982

Paul gushed about his joy at working with the Superstition singer, branding him ‘a genius’. He said: ‘Stevie came along to the studio in LA and he listened to the track for about ten minutes and he totally got it.
‘He just went to the mic and within 20 minutes had nailed this dynamite solo.

Hit single: The song reached number one in both the UK and the US

‘When you listen you just think, “How do you come up with that?” But it's just because he is a genius, that's why.’
After the pair worked together on the 1982 song, it reached the number one spot in both the UK and the US.
However while Ebony and Ivory achieved chart success upon its release, it was later frequently parodied and criticised.

The tables have turned: Although it was a hit, the song has since been voted the worst duet in history

Together again: After all this time, the duo feature on a track together for Paul's new album

Blender magazine dubbed it the tenth worst song of all time, and in October 2007, BBC 6 Music listeners voted it the worst duet in history.
Their latest joint effort is one of two original compositions on Paul’s latest album.
The record is a collection of standards that the Beatles star grew up listening to.

source: dailymail

Tribute to an icon: Jean-Paul Gaultier unveils Couture collection inspired by Amy Winehouse

2012-01-26T15:33:00.000+07:00

By MAYSA RAWI

Jean-Paul Gaultier's Couture show today was inspired by the late Amy Winehouse

While Jean-Paul Gaultier's designs are often associated with pop singer Madonna, he today paid tribute to another musical diva.
The designer unveiled his couture show - inspired by the late Amy Winehouse.
Models walked the catwalk to a soundtrack by the singer, sporting her signature beehive hair and 50s-style fashion.

The collection featured 50's skirts and nipped-in waists

The collection included pencil skirts and corset dresses - one model was even pictured smoking a cigarette.
Amy's unique sense of style always divided critics. While some lambasted her 'scruffy' look, others labeled her an icon.
The singer previously collaborated on a line with one of her favourite brands, Fred Perry.

Male model Andrej Pejic models at the shot, wearing a blonde wig and beauty spot

Other signature trends Amy wore were polka dots and capri pants

Gaultier takes inspiration from the British brand, designing a white tennis dress with a similar logo.
The French designer is clearly a fan and reworked his classic bustier tops to suit the Back to Black singer's look.
Male model Andrej Pejic was one of the models who starred in the show.

The show also featured stunning dresses and intricate detailing

A model wears a dramatic dress, left, and Karlie Kloss shows off a green creation by the designer

The Serbian-born Australian looked stunning with a blonde beehive and a beaty spot. Earlier in the day he Tweeted: 'Nothing and I mean nothing beats couture!
Supermodel Karlie Kloss also featured on the runway.
Other Winehouse tributes included nipped-in waists and polka dots.

Dita Von Teese, left, and Beth Ditto, right, were invited to attend the show

Amy WInehouse died in London in July, age 27

source: dailymail

Extra hot! TV host Mario Lopez strips down to his underwear on Ellen DeGeneres' show

2012-01-26T15:11:00.000+07:00

By LAURA SCHREFFLER

Showing off: Mario Lopez stripped down to his skivvies on the Ellen DeGeneres Show today

The say if you've got it, flaunt it, and Mario Lopez did just that during a TV interview today.
The 38-year-old TV host stripped down to just his underwear on the Ellen DeGeneres Show much to the delight of her audience members.
He was on the comedienne's talk show to promote his new Rated M underwear line.
Although he was dressed to the nines in a jacket and dark trousers, 53-year-old DeGeneres was more interested in seeing what lay underneath his trendy outfit.

Going to the chapel: The 38-year-old Extra host posed at Oakley's Learn to Ride in Park City, Utah with fiancee Courtney Mazza last week

She asked if he was wearing his new jockeys underneath the metrosexual ensemble and when he answered in the affirmative, promptly asked him to prove it.
'Ellen is the only person that I take off my clothes for,' he joked, before asking incredulously, 'Oh, you're serious?'
With a body like his, he didn't have to worry about what he was showing off, and quickly pulled down his trousers to reveal that he was telling the truth about wearing his own brand of underwear.

Though she's been in a same-sex marriage with actress Portia de Rossi since 2008, DeGeneres looked delighted as she helped the Extra host take off his coat.
Although he did show off his impressive abs to all of the comic's viewers and audience members, only one woman gets to see his body up close and personal.
That would be Courtney Mazza, the former Saved By the Bell star's fiancee.
The two met while they were both starring in A Chorus Line on Broadway and plan to wed in Mexico later this year.
The couple are parents to a two-year-old daughter, Gia.
Lopez popped the question over New Year's weekend in Ixtapa, Mexico.
'We took a walk alone as the sun was setting,' says Lopez. 'I told Courtney that I wanted the mother of my children to have their last name. She was silent at first from shock, then she leaped for joy and did a little jete!'

source: dailymail

In a League Of His Own! James Corden shows off his slimmer figure after losing FIVE STONE ahead of run on Broadway

2012-01-26T12:45:00.000+07:00

By SARAH BULL

Half the man he was: James Corden showed off his slimmer figure at the Critics' Circle Theatre Awards yesterday after losing an incredible five stone

He's always been known as something of a cuddly actor, using his weight as a tool in his humour for shows including Gavin & Stacey and Fat Friends and even describing himself as a 'chunky unit'.
But yesterday James Corden showed off a noticeably slimmer figure after losing an incredible five stone ahead of making his Broadway return later this year.
The 33-year-old actor is believed to have gone from 21 stone to 16 stone, and is thought to be aiming to shed another 21lbs before hitting New York with his play One Man, Two Guvnors.

Posing up: Corden's weight loss has come ahead of his show One Man, Two Guvnors moving to Broadway later this year

A source said: 'James is the lightest he has been since he was a child - 16 stone. As well as hiring a personal trainer, James cut out his favourite snack – cheesy Quavers – and stopped eating late at night.
'He’s not doing anything faddy but is simply trying to eat more healthily. The plan is to lose another stone-and-a-half by April, when the show kicks off in New York.'
It has been claimed that becoming a father to son Max with fiancée Julia Carey was the first thing that spurred James on to lose weight.

Changing priorities: The actor was first spurred to lose weight after he welcomed a son with fiancée Julia

The source added to the Daily Mirror: 'Since becoming a dad, his priorities have changed. He realised he wanted to get fit and maximise play time with his son Max.
'He didn’t want to be huffing and puffing around after the youngster. The final incentive was when his theatre hit One Man Two Guvnors was signed up for a run on Broadway.'
James' weight loss also comes ahead of his wedding to Julia, which was meant to be taking place this year.

He said: 'I'm not getting married just yet, I'm too busy working. I'm off to New York in a few months. There is just too much going on.
'Going to America is the best prize so fingers crossed it will work out on Broadway. I will be taking my family with me which will be amazing but it has meant we'll have to marry when we get back. We haven't set a date yet.'

source: dailymail

'It really makes me think about becoming a Muslim': Liam Neeson considers converting to Islam following trip to Istanbul

2012-01-26T12:34:00.000+07:00

By KIRSTY MCCORMACK

A different faith: Liam Neeson, pictured here on the Late Night With Jimmy Fallon Show this month, is reportedly considering converting to Islam

He may have been named after the local priest in his Irish hometown but Liam Neeson could be leaving his Roman Catholic beliefs behind.
The 59-year-old actor is said to be considering converting to Islam following a working trip to Istanbul. According to The Sun, Neeson admitted that Islamic prayer 'got into his spirit' while he was filming in Turkey.

'The most beautiful thing': The actor learned a lot more about the religion after he spent time filming in Istanbul

'The call to prayer happens five times a day, and for the first week, it drives you crazy, and then it just gets into your spirit, and it's the most beautiful, beautiful thing,' he said. 'There are 4,000 mosques in the city. Some are just stunning, and it really makes me think about becoming a Muslim.'
Neeson was raised in Northern Ireland as a devout Roman Catholic due to his parents beliefs.

Working hard: Neeson is currently filming the sequel to hit film Taken and another one of his films The Grey is released this Friday

However, the Taken star has recently spoken about his opinion towards religion.
'I was reared a Catholic, but I think every day we ask ourselves, not consciously, what are we doing on this planet? What's it all about?' he said.
'I'm constantly reading books on God or the absence of God and atheism.'
The actor was criticised in 2010 after claiming The Chronicles Of Narnia lion, Aslan, who he provided the voice for in the film, was not based on Christ as CS Lewis had claimed but in fact all spiritual leaders including Mohammed.
Neeson's latest film The Grey will be released in the UK this Friday.

Tough guy: Neeson plays a man stuck in Alaska after a plane crash in his latest movie

source: dailymail

Downton does it again: Abbey stars take top prize at National Television Awards

2012-01-26T12:02:00.000+07:00

By ANDREA MAGRATH

Taking home the prize: Downton Abbey won the coveted Best Drama award at the National Television Awards in London on Wednesday night

They have already won countless awards, including Golden Globes and Emmys across the pond. And last night Downton Abbey did it again, being honoured with the top prize on home turf at the National Television Awards in London.
The runaway success story took home the award for Best Drama at the glittering gala, held at theO2 arena.

Runaway success: Castmembers including Hugh Bonneville, Laura Carmichael, Sophie McShera and Thomas Barrow represented the cast at the glittering ceremony

Castmembers including Hugh Bonneville, Sophie McShera, Laura Carmichael and Thomas Barrow took to the stage to accept the award on behalf of their colleagues.
Downton, which airs on ITV, beat BBC programmes Doctor Who, Merlin and Waterloo Road.
Doctor Who didn't lose out completely though; it's stars Matt Smith and Karen Gillan each took home the Drama Performance awards in the male and female categories respectively.

Big winners: Matt smith and Karen Gillan took home the Drama Performance awards for their roles in Doctor Who

Miss Gillan, who has announced she is to leave the series, gushed: 'This means so much to me,' as she accepted her award.
A thrilled Smith, who has confirmed he will stay on as The Doctor for at least another season, thanked the producers of the show before acknowledging the show's loyal army of fans. 'Thank you to everyone who watches, and who makes the show what it is,' he said.
Recently departed Katherine Kelly was awarded the Best Serial Drama Performance for her role as Becky McDonald in Coronation Street.

TV legend: Jonathan Ross was honoured with a Special Recognition award for 25 years in television

Honoured: Gary Barlow picked up an Outstanding Contribution award while David Walliams was given a Landmark Award

The cast of Outnumbered looked shocked as they were announced as the winners of the Sitcom award, beating hugely successful Miranda, as well as Benidorm.
X Factor took home the Talent Show prize, with a thrilled Tulisa and Gary Barlow accepting the award along with winners Little Mix, who also performed.
Serial Drama went to Coronation Street, Talk Show to Alan Carr: Chatty Man and Factual Programme went to This Morning for the second year running.

Winners: Tulisa and Gary Barlow scooped the award for best Talent Show, in addition to Gary's Outstanding Contribution award

Shout out to TOWIE: Mark Wright, Dougie Poynter and Fatima Whitbread collected the award for Best Reality Programme, with Wright mentioning his former co-star who lost out in the category

Ant and Dec won the Entertainment Presenter award for the eleventh time.
Mark Wright encountered an awkward moment when two of the shows he's starred in went up against each other in the Reality Programme category.
But the charming reality star sent a 'shout out' to his former co-stars onstage when I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here beat The Only Way Is Essex.

Thanks mate: Ant thanks Kermit the Frog after he and Dec won the award for Entertainment Presenter for the 11th time

Beauty and brains: Elle Mcpherson attracted laughs when she announced the winner of the 'National Telephone Award', while Tulisa kicked off proceedings with the first award of the evening

'Showing off': Comedian David Walliams received an award for his contribution to Sport Relief

Funny Vs serious: Alan Carr and Karen Gillan pose with their awards after the ceremony

The Serial Drama award, presented by Paul O'Grady was given to Coronation Street, who dedicated the prize to Betty Driver.
Three special awards were given out throughout the evening. The first was to David Walliams, whose work for Sport Relief was recognised with a Landmark Award.
Speaking onstage about his swim of the Thames last year, he said it was 'Really all about showing off.'

Celebrating: Holly Willoughby, Keith Lemon and Fearne Cotton share a joke with one another

Heart wrenching: The Military Wives performed their single before presenting an award

Gary Barlow was given an award for his Outstanding Contribution thanks to his work on X Factor Children In Need and Comic Relief. Finally, Jonathan Ross was honoured with a Special Recogntion for his 25 years in television.
Daniel Radcliffe, Graham Norton, Jo Brand and Tom Cruise were among those to pay tribute to the TV legend.

source: dailymail

Newly single Tulisa ruffles some feathers as she leads the charge in over-the-top NTAs glamour

2012-01-26T11:40:00.000+07:00

By ANDREA MAGRATH

Birds of a feather: Tulisa stood out in a hot pink feathered number at last night's National Television Awards

It was an evening of tans, tartan and a little too much flesh.
And Tulisa Contostavlos lead the charge of over-the-top glamour at the National Television Awards in London last night.
The newly-single star stole the spotlight on the red carpet in a hot pink feathered number.

Attention-grabbing: The deeply-tanned singer showed off her tattoo in the strapless number which she teamed with shiny silver heels

The singer and X Factor judge, 23, ensured plenty of cleavage was on show in her corseted dress, which featured a lace-up back.
She was sporting a deep tan, possibly leftover from her recent holiday in the Maldives, set off by her shiny silver heels.

source: dailymail

Deja va-va-voom! Carol Vorderman recycles a very daring gown from 2010 for the National Television Awards

2012-01-26T11:35:00.000+07:00

By ANDREA MAGRATH

Where do we look? Carol Vorderman fronted up to the National Television Awards at the O2 tonight in a very revealing dress, that she originally wore to an awards ceremony in 2010

Her saucy taste in red carpet outfits are becoming her trademark. And Carol Vorderman's dress for the National Television Awards tonight at the O2 Arena didn't disappoint in that department.
The 51-year-old wore a pale pink floor-length gown that featured a plunging neckline and bustier, putting her cleavage on prominent display for yet another glittering occasion. The Suzanne Neville dress was actually recycled from another event the television presenter attended in 2010 - and it raised just as many eyebrows first time round.

Figure-hugging: The tight dress showed off the 51-year-old's 'rear of the year'

Vorderman previously made headlines when she poured her curves into the figure-hugging gown at the Rose D'Or awards in Switzerland in September 2010.
The Countdown star has previously said that when she finds a dress she loves, she'll wear it over and over again - famously quipping that she has her beloved Roland Mouret Galaxy dress 'down to a fiver' on a cost-per-wear basis.
Carol added to the sex appeal of the off-the shoulder dress with tousled hair and smokey eye make-up.

Hello boys: Carol's plunging neckline put her cleavage on prominent display

She is becoming infamous for her penchant for provocative red carpet wear, often choosing to highlight her cleavage over her 'rear of the year'.
She posed with the somewhat more understated Janet Street Porter, Andrea McLean, and Lisa Maxwell on the red carpet.
McLean put on a brave face, smiling widely despite the revelation this week that she and her husband have called it quits.
The Loose Women lost out in their Talk Show category to Alan Carr, giving him a gracious standing ovation.

Girl power: Carol posed with the somewhat more understated Janet Street Porter, Andrea McLean, and Lisa Maxwell

source: dailymail

Kim, Kourtney and Khloe team up to unveil new range of jeans to fit those Kardashian kurves

2012-01-26T07:05:00.000+07:00

The good kind of blues: Kim, Kourtney and Khloe Kardashian debut their new range of denim for Sears

They may be experience a backlash of sorts, but the Kardashians remain focused on building their empire.
The siblings have announced the debut of their new denim line today and Kim, 31, took to her website this morning to promote their range for Sears.
She wrote: 'Our Kardashian Kollection for Sears denim line is officially here!! There are three styles, each named after my sisters and me'.

The Kim: The 31-year-old's self-named pair of jeans is described as Kim as 'sexy, low cut, and straight legged'

'I’m wearing The Kim, which is a sexy, low cut, straight leg jean. Then Kourtney is wearing The Kourtney, a gorgeous skinny leg jean, and Khloe is wearing The Khloe, a tall curvy, high rise, boot cut!!'
She continued to gush: 'The jeans come in different washes so you can choose the fit and wash that’s perfect for you!'
'Nick Saglimbeni was the photographer and I love the way they turned out! Shoots with my sisters are the best!! Xo'.
All three sisters pose in their photos wearing their namesake trousers and identical button-down white shirts.
They first launched the budget friendly Kardashian Kollection for Sears last August.

Rocking the denim: Khloe and Kourtney Kardashian wear their namesake jeans

Khloe, 27, has put aside the drama over the true identity of her birth father to announce her newest job.
She wrote on her website yesterday: 'Hi dolls! I have some very exciting news for you. I’m returning to radio!!!!!!'
'I’ll be joining the team at Mix 102.9 every day from 12-1pm CST for my very own show, The Mix Up with Khloé, and I could not be more thrilled about it!'

The Kardashian Kollection: The girls debuted their first collection for Sears last August in Hollywood, CA

'Doing radio in Miami a few years ago was some of the most fun I’ve ever had and I can’t wait to get back into it here in Dallas! You all know that I love to talk LOL, so this is the perfect gig for me. I can’t wait to get started!'
She added: 'My first show will be this Monday, January 30, and I am beyond excited! To my fans outside of Dallas, you can listen live on www.mix1029.com. WOOOOOOHOOOOOOOOOOO!'
Khloe recently moved to the Texan city when her basketball player husband, Lamar Odom, was traded to the Dallas Mavericks.

New career path? The 31-year-old co-hosted Live! with Kelly in NYC on Monday

source: dailymail

'My body is a temple, and my temple needs redecorating': Joan Rivers undergoes ANOTHER cosmetic surgery operation on reality TV show

2012-01-26T06:58:00.000+07:00

By SARAH FITZMAURICE

Need a little more work? Joan Rivers was seen undergoing plastic surgery on the first episode of the second season of her reality TV show

She is not shy about speaking about her surgery and now Joan Rivers has shown fans what happens when she goes under the knife.
In the first episode of the second series of her reality TV show Joan & Melissa: Joan Knows Best which aired in the US last, night the Fashion Police host underwent surgery to ‘tune-up’ on her neck.
Joan,78, underwent the surgery despite concerns raised by her daughter and her family.

Waking up: Despite her family's worries Joan underwent the surgery anyway

As the mother daughter pair waited to speak to a surgeon Melissa told her mother: ‘I don’t want you to die’.
Melissa even staged a ‘skintervention’ where she tried to convince her mother to decide against the procedure.
Joan defiantly told her family: ‘My body is a temple, and my temple needs redecorating.’

A little nip a little tuck: Joan was seen in the make-up chair at the start of the show scrutinizing her face

Unrecognisable: Ahead of the surgery and without make-up on Joan looked completely different to how she does with her war paint on

Lining up the marks: Joan was seen ahead of surgery with the surgeon drawing out the areas he would be working on

Before the surgery she joked that she isn’t going for ‘a Chaz Bono’ just a touch up.
Also in the show the star, who has undergone numerous cosmetic procedures said it would be her 734th surgery.
But it was clear that Melissa’s concern did hit home with her mother who was anxious ahead of going under the knife again.

A little apprehensive? It seemed that as she headed into the surgery the comedienne was anxious

It's a wrap: Joan was seen covered in bandages as she recuperated at home

The comedian is seen without make-up preparing for the surgery and recuperating from the treatment. Melissa is seen caring for her mother and tells the camera: ‘Cover at age two was easier to handle than my mother after an operation.’
Ahead of her season two premiere Joan caused controversy for taking a swipe at Chelsea Handler. It all started on Howard Stern’s Sirius XM show on Monday when Chelsea was asked about her reaction to Joan’s recent criticism of her.
She responded: 'What the f**k do I care about Joan Rivers?''

Getting some rest: The star was seen relaxing while her daughter looked after her

The E! late night host then went on to recount an incident at a recent Comcast party where Joan made a speech and took some digs at Chelsea for acquiring a new stage, which was formerly Conan O'Brien's stage.
The next day, Joan Rivers and daughter Melissa had their turn on Howard’s show and discussed their thoughts on Chelsea.
Without any of her trademark verve, Joan spat: 'The girl made it on her back f**king the president [of E!].'

source: dailymail

You're HOW old? Vera Wang, 62, shows off age-defying body in Harper's Bazaar shoot

2012-01-26T06:48:00.000+07:00

By TAMARA ABRAHAM

Age-defying body: Vera Wang, 62, poses in an Eres swimsuit and Alexander Wang corset for Harper's Bazaar

She claims not to be the 'type of woman who would wear high heels with a bathing suit'. But Vera Wang seems to have achieved it remarkably well in a shoot for the new issue of Harper's Bazaar U.S.
The designer, 62, who was pictured by the pool of her new LA home, revealed an age-defying body that could belong to a woman half - or even a third - of her age.
Wearing a black swimsuit by Eres with an Alexander Wang corset, she showed off lean, tanned and toned limbs with not a trace of cellulite. But for someone who wears swimwear so well, Ms Wang admits her usual beachside look is heavily covered-up.

LA story: The designer, pictured in a top and skirt by Rick Owens, opened the doors to her Beverly Hills home

Explaining to the magazine how she came to pose in the outfit, she admitted: 'I wanted to wear a corset from Alexander Wang, whom I like a great deal. I was thinking it would be over a legging or a boyish short, but the next thing I knew, I was there in a swimsuit.
'The funny thing is that I'm the girl who no one sees at the beach. Ask anyone who's traveled with me. Normally, I'm in so many layers, I look like Lawrence of Arabia!'

Escape: Ms Wang revealed that the house would be an antidote to her hectic New York lifestyle

She added that she was even 'a little horrified' by the resulting image, taken by photographer Douglas Friedman.
Other photos from the shoot show her wearing pieces that are more akin to the items in her own wardrobe, such as a draped jersey maxiskirt and leather vest by Rick Owens, and a cocktail dress by Azzedine Alaia.
But it is the bright, minimalist Beverly Hills house, where the shoot took place, that really steals the show.

Ageing gracefully: The designer, who has always been slim, looks better today (left) than she did in 1990 (right)

The result of a decade-long search for a West Coast property, Ms Wang describes it as a 'zen escape' from New York, where she continues to be based.
'New York for me is about work. If LA were to become a West Coast version of that, I'd shoot myself,' she said. 'The climate, the lifestyle — it really fits as the yin to my New York yang.'
With breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, she told how the four-bedroom house was built in 1967 and counts Burt Reynolds among its former residents.

A-list brides: Victoria's Secret model Lily Aldridge in her Vera Wang wedding gown last year (left), and Chelsea Clinton walking down the aisle in hers at her wedding in 2010 (right)

Famous fans: Ms Wang has dressed some of the world's biggest stars, from left: Sandra Bullock at the Academy Awards in 2011; Rachel Weisz at the same event in 2007 and Michelle Williams in 2006

Though she finds herself in LA regularly for work - she has dressed countless A-listers for red carpet events, not to mention their weddings - this house will be a place to relax, something she finds impossible in a hotel.
And given that she has spent most of her life living in New York, the luxury of having a pool is most definitely not lost on her.
'The great thing about having a pool in LA is that I can use it year-round,' she explained in a behind-the-scenes video. 'And since I've always been an athlete, staying fit is very important to me.'
The full interview with Vera Wang appears in the U.S. edition of Harper's Bazaar and online at Harpersbazaar.com

source: dailymail

The Only Way Is Glamour! TOWIE stars put their spin on formal wear as they don their Essex best for National Television Awards

2012-01-26T06:38:00.000+07:00

By ANDREA MAGRATH and HOLLY THOMAS

Essex spin on black tie: Chloe Sims brought her personal brand of formal wear to the NTAs in a red 'mullet' dress that featured a short hemline at the front and full-length skirt at the back and sides

They can usually be relied upon to draw attention with their high-octane approach to glamour.
And tonight was no exception for the cast of The Only Way Is Essex, as they turned up for the National Television Awards in an array of eye-catching gowns.
The stars certainly have every reason to celebrate, as the show has been nominated in the Reality TV category.

Simple elegance: TOWIE's resident fashionista Lydia Bright wore a black satin gown with her hair styled in a curled short 'do to sashay down the red carpet solo

Chloe Sims drew attention in a scarlet number with a short skirt and full-length train, adjusting her corset top as she navigated the red carpet.
Lydia Bright was elegant in a full-length black gown, which combined with her blonde curls and red lipstick made for a classic Hollywood look.
The star's dark dress also highlighted her porcelain skin- unique among the tanned ranks of the TOWIE cast.

Essex glamour: Jessica Wright went for a Kate Middleton meets TOWIE dress in a full length backless lace bespoke Honor Gold dress, while Lauren Goodger wore a tight silver gown with a plunging neckline

Lauren Pope made the most of her slender frame in a delicate pale grey silk and lace dress, which was transparent around her midriff and back.
She completed her look with smoked-out eyes and a bouffant up 'do for added drama.
Lauren Goodger- who wore a long-sleeved silver ensemble- was clearly thrilled to be there, tweeting: 'At NTAs having an amazing night! Hope u all watching x x'

Sheer delight: Lauren Pope wowed in a sheer silver dress which showed a hint of skin

The star remimisced about her favourite moments on the show while getting ready for the awards this afternoon, writing: 'Prob best TV moment Iwill remember for series2 was when Ipushed @MarkWright_ in the pool hahahha!Still get a lot comments about that JOKES x'
She added: 'And my best tv moment of series 2 was my engagement party special times I will always remember! .. Not long now for ntas keep voting guys x'
Lydia wrote: All glammed up en route to the NTAs fingers crossed we pick up an award. Last minute dress as always haha x

Hollywood style: Sam Faiers was stunning in a full-length pale gold dress with a sexy slit to the thigh

The blonde posted a photo of herself, Billie Faiers and Lucy Mecklenburgh having taken their seats, posting it with the caption: 'Me & @BillieFaiers look like twins #towie2winNTAs @lucy_meck lookiN hot x'
It appears Lydia's co-star Lauren Pope also survived a last-minute wardrobe emergency, as she tweeted this afternoon: 'Just started gettin ready for the NTA's so exciting altho my dress still hasn't arrived yet eeeeeeek fingers crossed it does!!!
Thankfully the day was saved just in time, as she added later: 'Omg last min dash for the dress but it arrived in time with 5 mins to go yey!!! Now on way to NTA's with @JoeyEssex_ n @LaurenGoodger xx'

Making an impression: Gemma Collins chose a black and cream number with a flower pattern to showcase her curves, while Lucy Mecklenburgh opted for oyster pink

Sam Faiers was stunning in a full-length pale gold dress with a sexy slit to the thigh, and her blonde locks worn up in an elegant bun.
One notable absence was that of James 'Arg' Argent, who would normally be seen by girlfriend Lydia's side.
The 22-year-old tweeted earlier this evening: 'I will not be attending the NTAs Tonight! Its a long story, Im gutted but its 4 the best. Thanks everyone 4 voting n fingers crossed #TOWIE!

Blast from the past: Former TOWIE star Amy Childs chose a fitted cream silk and lace dress with a mermaid's tail skirt

All kicking off! Lydia posed this snap on Twitter before the awards began, writing 'Me & @BillieFaiers look like twins #towie2winNTAs @lucy_meck lookiN hot x''

source: dailymail

Amanda Holden 'nearly died' as she gave birth to baby girl Hollie Rose after emergency hospitalisation

2012-01-26T06:25:00.000+07:00

By SARA NATHAN and BEN TODD

Baby joy: Amanda Holden has given birth to a little girl named Hollie Rose, her second daughter with husband Chris Hughes

Amanda Holden was recovering in hospital last night after coming close to death while giving birth to her second daughter.
The star – whose son was stillborn last year when she was seven months pregnant – was in a ‘critical condition’ for three days as she battled for life, it emerged yesterday.
Her second daughter, Hollie Rose, was born on Monday by Caesarean section at a London hospital. The baby weighed in at 6lb 1oz and is ‘healthy’, although she has been placed in a special care unit.

'Critical' condition: The 40-year-old presenter is expected to make a full recovery after a difficult few days, her spokesperson said

The announcement of the birth was delayed by 40-year-old Miss Holden’s family until her condition had stabilised yesterday afternoon.
A close friend said: ‘Amanda nearly died. It was a life threatening situation. There was a huge loss of blood.’

Growing family: Amanda and Chris are already parents to daughter Lexi

Miss Holden – who admitted herself to hospital on Monday morning – is expected to make a full recovery. The exact details of what caused her huge loss of blood have not been made public.
The Britain’s Got Talent judge has a history of difficult pregnancies.
When she went into labour with the birth of first child Lexi in 2006, doctors discovered Miss Holden had a low-lying placenta which had blocked the birth canal, making a natural birth impossible. It meant she was forced to have an emergency Caesarean.

Well wishes: Amanda's BGT co-star Simon Cowell sent a message

Last night Miss Holden was still believed to be in intensive care. Friends said they had no idea when she would be discharged from hospital.
Her husband, record company executive Chris Hughes, 38, decided yesterday afternoon that his wife was well enough for their baby’s birth to be announced.
She gave up her role as Princess Fiona in the musical Shrek, but expected to be on BGT alongside Simon Cowell and new judges Alesha Dixon and David Walliams.
She even joked she would make Cowell godfather to the new arrival, saying: ‘He could set up a trust fund with stacks of money in it because it’s a girl – so she’ll need shoes.’
Most of all, Miss Holden said she was thrilled that her daughter Lexi, six, would get her wish of becoming a big sister.
A BGT spokesman said: ‘We extend our congratulations to Amanda and Chris on the birth of Hollie and wish Amanda a speedy recovery.’

source: dailymail

You WILL reveal your past! Facebook's timeline feature becomes mandatory for all users - with just 7 days to 'clean up'

2012-01-26T06:09:00.000+07:00

By ROB WAUGH

Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg unveiled the new-look Timeline profile last year: From now, users will simply be notified that they are being 'updated' via an announcement at the top of their home page

Facebook's Timeline - a new look for people's Profile pages which exposes their entire history on the site - will become mandatory for all users.
The 'new look' has been voluntary up until now.
From now, users will simply be notified that they are being 'updated' via an announcement at the top of their home page, which users click on to activate Timeline. As with voluntary switches to Timeline, those who are 'updated' will have just seven days to select which photos, posts and life events they want to advertise to the world.

The 'timeline' view will give your Facebook page a more 'magazine-like' feel - and will, Mark Zuckerberg promises, 'tell the story of your life'

Via the official Facebook blog, the site announced, 'Last year we introduced timeline, a new kind of profile that lets you highlight the photos, posts and life events that help you tell your story.'
'Over the next few weeks, everyone will get timeline. When you get timeline, you'll have 7 days to preview what's there now.
'This gives you a chance to add or hide whatever you want before anyone else sees it.' Timeline has been criticised for showing off pictures and posts that people might have wanted to forget.

Timeline allows you to organise your life into a chronological view - and you can even add the years 'pre-Facebook'

The new look also pairs with 'timeline apps', such as Spotify, which post every time people listen to a song, or eat a recipe or visit somewhere.
'You can learn more about these new features by taking the quick tour available at the top of your timeline,' says Facebook.
'If you want to get timeline now, go to the Introducing Timeline page and click 'Get Timeline.'Or you can wait until you see an announcement at the top of your home page.'

Celebrity endorsement: The Facebook profile of Britney Spears already appears to have received the 'timeline' makeover

Mark Zuckerberg described timeline as letting you 'tell the whole story of your life on a single page'.
The redesigned pages have a more magazine-like photo-heavy feel, with a large 'cover photo' at the top of the page.
On the right of the page there will be a timeline that breaks down all posts from a person's time on Facebook and allows viewers to jump back to people's earliest posts with a break down month-by-month.

Practising what he preaches: Facebook's creator Mark Zuckerberg has already opted-in for the new profile feature

source: dailymail

Teenage girl becomes a blubbering mess as she comes face-to-face with her idol Daniel Radcliffe at Woman In Black premiere

2012-01-25T21:58:00.000+07:00

By ALANAH ERIKSEN

My hero! A young fan can hardly contain herself when she gets up close to Daniel Radcliffe at the premiere of his new film, Women In Black

Many of us wouldn't know how we would react if we came face-to-face with one of our celebrity idols. But for this teenage Daniel Radcliffe fan, it was hysterical tears.
The girl waited outside the Royal Festival Hall last night to greet the Harry Potter star before the premiere of his new film, Woman In Black.
She couldn't beleive her luck when he got close enough to the fence she was standing behind for her to touch him. She reached out to get his attention as he signed autographs and greeted other fans.

Look at me! She reaches out to touch the Harry Potter star who is busy signing autographs and greeting an array of fans

Breaking down: When he finally pays attention to her, the excitement is too much to handle

When he finally turned her way, the girl couldn't contain her excitement and became a blubbering mess. The 22-year-old interacted with several fans, signing Harry Potter book and posing for photographs. He joined his co-stars on the red carpet in a black suit and spotted tie.

I can't believe it's him! The girl couldn't wait to meet her idol, crying hysterically

Dressed up: Daniel looked dapper in a black suit with coloured buttons and a spotted tie

Radcliffe, 22, said of his new role, his first since the final Potter movie: “It felt very natural to be stepping into another character and starting this next phase.”
The Woman In Black follows a young lawyer Arthur Kipps, who travels to a remote house on an island somewhere in Britain to put the last affairs of a deceased client in order. He is disturbed by the sight of a ghost at the client's funeral, who children can see but refuse to speak of.

Leading man: Daniel Radcliffe joined his co-star Liz White at the Royal Festival Hall

Pride: Radclfife, White and screenwriter Goldman join the film's stars inside the Royal Festival Hall

As the ghost becomes increasingly malevolent, the town is thrown into a frenzy of terror, with the 'house on the marsh', becoming the focal point of the haunting.
Despite the spooky nature of the film, Radcliffe insisted it wasn't scary.
He explained: 'We had a very nice, relaxed time on all of our locations. It was a very good time and nothing scary happened.'

Keeping it simple: Actress Roxanne Pallett (left) and Goldman (pictured right with husband Jonathan Ross) both wore black

Jane Goldman, who adapted the screenplay from Susan Hill's original novel, was impressed with Radcliffe's performance.
She enthused: 'I think he's incredible and so many people have come up to me at screenings and said they have been blown away by Daniel. And rightly so, he's amazing.'
A host of sexy female stars joined Danielle at the world premiere, but, surprisingly, the red carpet was the only bit of colour on London's South Bank.

You can't escape Hogwarts! Daniel signs a Harry Potter book a fan had brought along

Add a few more fans to the mix: Daniel shakes some more hands

It appears all the female guests may have mistaken the film title for the dress code as they graced the screening in black dresses.
Stars including ex-Emmerdale actress Roxanne Pallett, screenwriter Jane and Radcliffe's leading lady Liz White all opted for black ensembles.
White, who plays a mysterious character in the film called Jennet Humfrye, wore an over-the-knee ruched dress and heels as she towered over her diminutive co-star Radcliffe.

Watch out, behind you! Daniel poses in front of some creepy-looking fans at the premiere

Superstar: Daniel is dwarfed by the red carpet and mass of photographers angling to get the nest picture of him

Goldman, who arrived on the arm of her chat show host husband, teamed her Gothic lace creation with a pair of unusual ankle boots.
Also in black were model Nikki Zilli, Jimmy Carr's girlfriend Caroline Kopping and TV presenter Zoe Hardman.
Hardman wore a sheer black top as she arrived on the red carpet with her Take Me Out: The Gossip co-host Mark Wright.

Thriller: Radcliffe in a scene from The Woman In Black

Corey Feldman, who like Wright opted for a grey suit, arrived with a buxom blonde in a very revealing lace dress. And he was joined by fellow Dancing On Ice competitors Chemmy Alcott and Andy Akinwolere. Alpine ski racer Alcott looked cute in a Suzanne Neville prom dress... also in black. The Woman In Black is released in the UK on February 10 and in the U.S. on February 3.

source: dailymail

Supermodel in red: Yasmin Le Bon showcases 50 kilo Stephan Rolland dress at Couture Week... but needs two men to help her get it down the catwalk

2012-01-25T21:36:00.000+07:00

By LAUREN PAXMAN

Show-stopping: Yasmin Le Bon in the final gown showcased at Stephane Rolland's show - flanked by her two assistants

There's a downside to designers showcasing beautiful fabric in all it's glory... it can get rather heavy.
When Stephane Rolland's muse-of-the-day - former supermodel Yasmin Le Bon - took to the catwalk wearing the Paris Fashion Week show's final look, she needed two assistants to help her get the gown down the runway.
The, literally show-stopping, red silk jersey dress - with assorted lacquered metal panels on the bustier and down the front of the skirt - weighs 50 kilos (110 pounds)... probably almost as much as Yasmin herself weighs.

Perfectly placed: The dress weighed 50 kilos, and at it's longest point the fabric - which doubled back on itself - was 45 metres long

At its longest point, the fabric on the dress was 45 metres long.
But the two good-looking assistants showcased the train at its best by artfully arranging it around the model's feet.
Elsewhere in the show, models wore gowns in a strict palette of red, lime green, black and ivory.
The cuts were kept simple, but highly-sculptural, showing off beautiful silhouettes and, more importantly, fabric in its purest form.
Rolland's spring-summer haute couture offering was inspired by the work of kinetic artist Michel Deverne, and his floor-sweeping gowns were kept ultra-simple to show off the movement of the materials.

Beautiful silhouette: The fabric on the red silk skirt fell beautifully, showcasing the 47-year-old model's enviable figure

Women in white: These four gowns show off the range of fabrics that Stephane Roland showcased at his Paris show

Clean silhouettes - combined with sweeping waist appendages and expert draping - were broken up only by the odd shiny breastplate or waistband in gold metal.
Some fashion critics felt that the simplicity of the gowns made the collection repetitive, but going back to basic and showcasing fabrics including silk jersey, gazar and organza in all their natural beauty is something that should be applauded.
Just like we should applaud the models who managed to cart the, often heavy, clothes down the catwalk.

Simple palette: Rolland stuck to reds, white, black and lime green - but the variety of fabrics and cuts offered more than enough variation

source: dailymail

Portraits? I've got it licked! Artist creates pictures entirely out of postage stamps

2012-01-25T21:17:00.000+07:00

By KERRY MCQUEENEY

First-class: Jack Bottomley works on his Marilyn Monroe portrait. Some of his works can take more than 30 hours to make

When it comes to the art of creating collages, the work of this artist is first class.
In fact, John Bottomley has got the world’s most iconic celebrities licked after he created portraits of them - using only postage stamps.
The 64-year old former butler has produced pictures of Michael Jackson, Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe and Liza Minnelli by sticking used first and second class stamps onto a canvas.
The avid stamp collector has also made up a special 2012 Olympic tribute to a local sports club also made entirely out of stamps. Each picture takes John around 30 hours to complete and needs about 1,500 stamps - around £700 worth if bought new.

Return to sender: John has also made a portrait of Elvis Presley. Sometimes John uses as many as 1,500 stamps in each piece

Father-of-one John, from Clayton, Manchester, who cares full time for his wife said: 'I must have a million stamps, I’ve got albums full and as I love artwork it just seemed to make sense to use old stamps to create pictures.
'But when I get orders for my work I do wonder whether I should cheekily ask the Royal Mail for free postage - because of all the stamps I use.
'I’ve not made any money from it, it’s just cost me a lot of time and my own money, but it is a love.

What a dish: John with one of the plate collages he has created, commemorating the London 2012 Olympics

'I was collecting stamps back with my brother back in the 60s; the first was probably just a normal postage stamp, I would have cut it off and started to collect them. 'The first one I did was Elvis, it was a challenge straight through, I think it took me about thirty hours.
'So far I’ve done Marilyn Monroe, Michael Jackson and I’ve just started Liza Minnelli and whatever else comes along. I’ve got an order from a friend for an Elvis one.

'I’ve done one for the 2012 Olympics, I’ve not seen anything in stamps about like that before, and it’s quite unusual. It’s not easy because it can take so long and I hate wasting stamps. You do also end up with lots of glue on your hands.'
John says he was first inspired to collect when he saw a little dish his uncle made completely out of stamps and couldn’t get over how unusual it was.
And from there his collection grew and grew with him even purchasing three bin liners full of postage stamps for £300.

source: dailymail