Latest news with #EssexLive
Daily Mirror
20-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Inside Jimmy Doherty's life with famous wife, four daughters pet polar bears and showbiz pals
Jimmy Doherty has been a familiar face on our TV screens for more than 20 years and he is back with a new series this weekend Jimmy Doherty first graced our television screens over two decades ago, featuring in his best mate Jamie Oliver 's cooking programmes. After training to be a pig farmer, he established his own farm and founded the Essex Pig Company, which became the focus of the reality TV documentary, Jimmy's Farm. These days, Jimmy juggles his farming duties with his television career, and this weekend he's in the new Channel 4 show, Jimmy Doherty's Big Bear Rescue. The programme follows Jimmy, 50, at his Suffolk farm and wildlife refuge, where he welcomes some homeless polar bears, a pack of wolves, and two brown bears looking for their forever homes. All of the action is filmed on his sprawling 70-acre family farm. He shares this idyllic setting with his telly producer wife Michaela Furney and their four daughters, not to mention a host of pets. Let's delve into his life, reports Essex Live. Early life Born in Ilford before relocating to Essex at three years old, Jimmy struck up a friendship with a young Jamie Oliver at primary school, and they've remained close ever since. He's always had a passion for animals and wildlife, and from the tender age of 13, he worked in the tropical butterfly house at Mole Hall Wildlife Park in Saffron Walden, helping care for a variety of animals ranging from otters to chimpanzees. Jimmy pursued animal biology at university and served for five years in the Royal Corps of Signals. He later trained as a pig farmer and now owns his own farm and operates The Essex Pig Company. TV star wife and daughters Jimmy Doherty's wife, Michaela Furney, first crossed paths with her future husband while working as a runner on Jamie Oliver's show, Jamie's Kitchen, back in 2002. The shoot led her to the Cumbrian farm where Jimmy was employed at the time. Michaela eventually chose to leave her bustling London career behind to embrace farm life with Jimmy. In a candid chat with MailOnline, she reflected: "One of the biggest things was giving up my career; I was very focused and it was a good lifestyle. But it was my decision: Jim didn't put any pressure on me." Although she stepped away from TV production, Michaela found herself in front of the lens for the documentary series, Jimmy's Farm. Initially resistant to the idea due to the intrusive nature of filming, she confessed: "We're just normal people and the attention can be scary and hurtful," adding, "I was still commuting when they began filming, so at first I thought I wouldn't be involved – that was how Jim persuaded me." She also revealed the emotional toll of being filmed: "They used lots of shots of me crying, but it was just in frustration at all the setbacks, the worst of which were the fights with the council over planning permission [for outbuildings and, retrospectively, the shop]. I don't cry that often – they just seemed to catch it on camera every time I did." The couple tied the knot in August 2009 with a reception held at their farm, and they have since become doting parents to four daughters. Showbiz pals Since their primary school days, Jimmy and Jamie Oliver have remained steadfast mates, presenting television programmes together such as Jamie and Jimmy's Friday Night Feast, whilst pursuing various other joint ventures - and remarkably, they appear never to have had a serious falling-out (save for the occasional spat during TV challenges). It was actually Jimmy who played cupid, introducing Jamie to his future wife Jools when he was just 18. Speaking to MailOnLine, Jimmy recalled: "We went on a double date to the cinema in Cambridge – me, Jamie, Juliette and Sue Stump. He had a Fiesta with big fog lights and an exhaust like a tractor on it. We were going over a hill listening to Bob Marley, Buffalo Soldier. We're all singing, the guy braked in front of us and Jamie smashed into him and knocked his front lights out." Their profound friendship was particularly touching when Jamie dedicated his book, Jamie Cooks Italy, to Jimmy's late father. Jimmy revealed: "There's a picture of him at my brother's wedding on there. Jamie gave me the book and I'm used to my dad being dead, but sorrow is a weird thing. I couldn't control it, I had to go away on my own. Then I came back and said thank you and it started again. But luckily I had an eye infection so I could blame it on that. Pink eyes, weeping." On the farm Jimmy's Suffolk farm, which serves as the backdrop for the ITV series Jimmy and Shivi's Farmhouse Breakfast, is rather extraordinary given its collection of exotic creatures, including polar bears and monkeys - the website actually claims it's Europe's largest polar bear reserve. In a chat with the Express, he shared: "And then you've got the wildlife park where we've got polar bears, we've got monkeys, we've got our anteaters. So we do different activities with them. "One morning we played hide and seek with our monkeys. We hid all their food around and they had to go and find it. And I remember that for the camera system, it took him about 15 minutes trying to get the GoPro in this special box and tighten it all up. It took the monkey about five seconds to undo or and grab the camera, bite it and run off with it. But we've got some brilliant monkey selfies!"
Daily Record
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Boden's sale dress in four colours that shoppers are 'living in this summer'
The fashion retailer's dress is so popular that shoppers say it makes them "feel stylish all day long wearing it." Boden has been treating fashion fans to a selection of fun, vibrant designs this summer. The latest to capture attention is so popular shoppers say they are "living in it." The British retailer's Ava Broderie Trim Midi Dress has been flying off the shelves, with the firm itself confirming that it is "selling like hot cakes". To entice customers even more, it can be bought for 15 per cent less with a special code. Currently retailing at £98, this "silky soft" frock can be knocked down to a cheaper £83.30 when using the code W7CX, with the discount being automatically applied at the online checkout. This fabulous frock is available in petite, regular, and long lengths, and comes in four gorgeous hues: black, plum purple, deep olive, and harbour blue. Its cotton-blend fabric ensures breathability, while the fit-and-flare design creates a flattering silhouette, reports Essex Live. Additional details include a delicate broderie trim and detachable tie belt, both which add to its 'on-trend' bohemian-style aesthetic that has been everywhere this summer. Meanwhile, side pockets add a touch of convenience. Aria Broderie Trim Midi Dress £98 £83.30 Boden Buy here Product Description Available in sizes four through to 22, fitting pretty much most body types, the Ava Broderie Dress can be styled in a variety of ways, whether that be with a pair of sandals when on holiday, or with a pair of chunky trainers or boots when at a music festival. For those who are looking to check out a similar style from an alternative retailer, there is this £55 Liberte Black Cotton Sleeveless Midi Dress that is available to buy in colours red, black and light blue. Alternatively, over at New Look, another boho-style option, the White Broderie Anglaise Belted Midi Shirt Dress, complete with a smart collar and button front, has seen a price drop from £69.99 to £52.49. A hit with fashion fans who have managed to bag the Boden dress, it has garnered significant praise from those who say that they "feel stylish all day long" and that they are tempted to get "other colours." One thrilled customer raved: "Absolutely beautiful dress, the weight of it is perfect and the neckline isn't too low. I've had so many positive comments wearing it, I feel this is the dress I will be living in this summer." Another reviewer echoed this sentiment, saying: "It's not too low cut in the front, flows beautifully and is easy to dress up or down. I got the purple and now thinking of getting the other colours." Fashion deal of the week New Balance has just launched a massive sale ahead of the summer, with up to half-price off. For those who don't want their feet to get sore during the day, the Women's 327 Shoes have earned a glowing reputation from thousands of shoppers, with praise suggesting they are "like walking on clouds." Usually retailing at £100, these lace-up trainers are now available to purchase for just £60, saving 40 percent and £40 off the RRP. Initially designed as running shoes that have been inspired by the 1970's, the New Balance 327 boasts an angular reworking of the classic wedge silhouette and an adjustable lace-closure design for a customized fit. The wraparound, trail-inspired lug outsole makes these trainers a supportive choice for those on their feet all day, whether that be during physical exercise or when out on city breaks during the summer. As of writing, the 40 percent discount covers three colours - slate grey, bone and raincloud - with sizes ranging from three to eight, including half-sizes, although some are being snapped up fast. They currently boast a 4.6 rating based on over 3,000 reviews, as one thrilled customer wrote: "Not only do these look good, they're the comfiest trainers I've ever worn! Walked around London for 2 days & I felt like I was walking on clouds!" A second positive review read: "Walking on Air! They are the most comfortable shoe I've ever had. I've tossed out all my On Cloud's, Nike's & Hoka's. I plan on buying another air for the summer." Shop the 40 percent discount on the New Balance Women's 327 Shoes online now. A third fan gushed: "The fabric is silky-soft against the skin, and hangs/drapes/flows beautifully. The neckline and armholes hit at the ideal spots, and I felt beautiful and stylish all day long wearing it." While many customers found the product satisfactory, some had issues with the fit, remarking: "This could have been the perfect dress but sadly another high waisted dress so returned. "The fabric and design are lovely, apart from the waist being so high - who do these dresses suit?" Although, someone who was delighted with the fit of the dress said: "This dress is just perfect! The V Neck is not too deep and the detail is just enough. At 5ft 7 the regular length hits mid calf. LOVE!!!" Boden shoppers can get 15 per cent off the Ava Broderie Trim Midi Dress by entering the code W7CX at the checkout.
The Sun
10-07-2025
- Business
- The Sun
Poundland abruptly shuts popular store after 10 years – see full list of 22 closures
POUNDLAND has abruptly shut a popular store after 10 years. The bargain chain has shut a branch in Colchester retail park, in a blow to locals. 1 In the past, residents of the area have described the store as "great". While another fan said: "The place is big, with almost everything you need at an affordable price." The popular store shut this week, according to reports in EssexLive. It as Poundland is preparing to pulling down the shutters on a store in Merry Hill Shopping Centre, Dudley, on July 18. Meanwhile, a second in Cowes on the Isle of Wight and a third in Newquay gear up to close on July 30 and August 1, respectively. Poundland has already closed 16 stores across the UK since March last year, including in Macclesfield, Maidenhead and Flint. These are the 22 stores that have shut: Connswater Shopping Centre, Belfast – closed March 2024 Macclesfield – closed August, 2024 Maidenhead – closed October, 2024 Sutton Coldfield – closed October, 2024 Clapham Junction Station, London – closed May 2 Belle Vale Shopping Centre, Liverpool – closed May 6 St George's Centre, Gravesend – closed May 8 Southwark Park Road – closed May 14 Copdock Mill Interchange, Ipswich – closed May 20 Brackla, Wales – closed May 24 Chiswick High Road – closed May 28 Filton Abbeywood – closed May 31 Surrey Quays – closed June 11 Barrow Dalton Road - closed June 12 Union Gate, Bristol - closed June 20 Flint - closed June 21 Colchester - closed Plymouth - closed July 5 Telford - closing July 19 Newquay - closing on July 30 Cowes, Isle of Wight – closing July 30 Newquay - August 1 RETAIL PAIN IN 2025 The British Retail Consortium has predicted that the Treasury's hike to employer NICs will cost the retail sector £2.3billion. Research by the British Chambers of Commerce shows that more than half of companies plan to raise prices by early April. A survey of more than 4,800 firms found that 55% expect prices to increase in the next three months, up from 39% in a similar poll conducted in the latter half of 2024. Three-quarters of companies cited the cost of employing people as their primary financial pressure. The Centre for Retail Research (CRR) has also warned that around 17,350 retail sites are expected to shut down this year. It comes on the back of a tough 2024 when 13,000 shops closed their doors for good, already a 28% increase on the previous year. Professor Joshua Bamfield, director of the CRR said: "The results for 2024 show that although the outcomes for store closures overall were not as poor as in either 2020 or 2022, they are still disconcerting, with worse set to come in 2025." Professor Bamfield has also warned of a bleak outlook for 2025, predicting that as many as 202,000 jobs could be lost in the sector. "By increasing both the costs of running stores and the costs on each consumer's household it is highly likely that we will see retail job losses eclipse the height of the pandemic in 2020."
Daily Mirror
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Next's 'gorgeous' £28 summer dress has shoppers buying multiple
Next's £28 midi dress is available in five different colours and has shoppers praising it's 'very flattering' fit that's perfect for hot summer days Dresses are the ultimate versatile piece in any wardrobe, perfect for switching from daytime chic to evening glamour with a simple change of accessories. Next is dishing out some great pieces this season with their coveted £28 Midi Slip Summer Dress. Catering to all shapes, it's available in petite and regular fits and comes in a variety of on-trend designs like black/animal, black/green, blue tie dye, palm, and pink/orange. Crafted from a light viscose blend, this dress hangs gracefully at midi length and features adjustable straps and a stylish side split hem for an added dash of sophistication. With a solid 4.2-star rating based on 38 reviews, this dress is clearly winning over shoppers, reports Essex Live. One thrilled buyer exclaimed: "Gorgeous dress for holidays, it's comfy to wear and very flattering. I bought three, all different patterns, and they can be easily dressed up for the evening." Another satisfied customer remarked: "Lovely dress, I bought it for a holiday. I got lots of compliments, it's true to size and doesn't crease." And a third added: " Lovely summer dres s for my forthcoming holiday. The material is soft and skims over my body, and the colours are gorgeous." The dress has received a ton of compliments, but some shoppers have pointed out issues with the fit, commenting: "I found it to be a poor fit. There were gaps around the arm hole area and it did not fit properly." If you're in the market for something different, the Bershka Cross Back Midaxi Slip Dress might catch your eye. Available on ASOS for £21, this number boasts a V-neck, an open back, and a tie-back fastening. For another stylish pick, consider the Black Striped Maddie Midi Dress from Nobody's Child. It features a square neck and a shirred back for extra comfort and is currently a steal, slashed from £75 down to £38.
Wales Online
03-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Next's 'flattering' £28 summer dress that 'skims over the body' is perfect for holidays
Next's 'flattering' £28 summer dress that 'skims over the body' is perfect for holidays The Next Midi Slip Summer Dress is perfect for summer holidays Next Midi Slip Summer Dress (Image: Next ) Dresses come in an array of lengths to suit any style, functioning as a versatile wardrobe staple that transitions effortlessly from daytime wear to a chic evening ensemble. Next's extensive dress collection features the favourite £28 Midi Slip Summer Dress. Catering to various body types, it's available in both petite and regular sizes and offers several patterns including black/animal, black/green, blue tie dye, palm, and pink/orange. The midi dress is made of a viscose blend for optimal comfort and airflow and it has adjustable straps and a side hem split for added elegance. For a touch of sophistication pair the dress with Next's £38 Forever Comfort Jewelled Toe Thong Kitten Heels. It has garnered positive feedback, averaging a 4.2-star rating from 38 reviews. For money-saving tips, sign up to our Money newsletter here One satisfied customer exclaimed: "Gorgeous dress for holidays, it's comfy to wear and very flattering. Next Midi Slip Summer Dress (Image: Next ) "I bought three, all different patterns, and they can be easily dressed up for the evening," reports Essex Live. Another shared: "Lovely dress, I bought it for a holiday. I got lots of compliments, it's true to size and doesn't crease." And a third contributing their praise: "Lovely summer dress for my forthcoming holiday. "The material is soft and skims over my body, and the colours are gorgeous." A few shoppers have voiced concerns over the fit, with one remarking: "I found it to be a poor fit. "There were gaps around the arm hole area and it did not fit properly." Alternatively, you might fancy the Bershka Cross Back Midaxi Slip Dress. Currently priced at £21 on ASOS, it features a V-neck, an open back and a tie-back fastening. Another option is the Black Striped Maddie Midi Dress from Nobody's Child. Article continues below With a square neck and shirred back for added comfort, it's now available for just £38, down from its original price of £75.
