Latest news with #Shirley
Daily Mirror
15 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Strictly's judging line-up confirmed after fears over star's exit
The judging line-up for the 23rd series of Strictly Come Dancing has been revealed after fans of the BBC competition await the latest batch of celebrities The latest batch of Strictly Come Dancing celebrity contestants may be being kept under wraps but the judging panel has been confirmed. And for many fans they are now breathing a sigh of relief. Ahead of the latest series of the popular BBC dance contest, those watching from behind the desk have been announced. Taking to social media, the official Strictly page shared the exciting news. With a reel of images of the stars and the theme tune, the BBC show said on Instagram: "We've been limbering-up and practicing our curtsies, ready for the new series of Strictly with our amazing judging panel, Shirley, Anton, Motsi and Craig and our incredible MBEs Tess and Claudia - Congratulations on your FAB-U-LOUS achievement!" Celebrities were quick to comment on the post. Among those sharing their delight was professional dancer Amy Dowden, who wrote: "Can't wait xxx" alongside a number of love heart emojis. Dianne Buswell and Karen Hauer also shared their glee. As too did Motsi Mabuse, who took to the comments section as she gushed: "And just like that… we're BACK on @bbcstrictly. Let the sparkle, the sweat and the sequins begin! "Can't wait to share another magical season with all of you. #StrictlyComeDancing #TeamStrictly #GratefulHeart" The announcement comes as fans had thought Craig Revel Horwood had hinted he would be leaving the show. However, they have been left pleased that this is not the case. While the latest batch of famous faces has not been officially announced, the rumour mill is in full swing. Among those linked to the dance floor is former footballer Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink. The 53-year-old Dutch sportsman is thought to be the latest in a long line of football legends to take to the Strictly stage, following the likes of Robbie Savage, Alex Scott and Tony Adams. A source told The Sun earlier this month: 'Jimmy has a huge fanbase from his years playing in the Premier League and is a very likeable character. Show producers are always keen to book a retired footballer as it gets footie fans tuning into the series and becoming unlikely fans of the show. "Jimmy has a competitive edge and is going to get his head in the game.' Others tipped for an appearance include Olympian Sir Mo Farah, Gladiators star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey - better known as Nitro - and former Big Brother contestant Yinrun Huang. Bosses will be hoping for a drama-free 23rd series off-stage. The show has been dragged into disrepute in recent years amid accusations that professional dancers have been physically abusive to their celebrity dance partners. While the celebs have also been accused of offensive behaviour.
Wales Online
18 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Wales Online
Mixed opinion as Strictly Come Dancing 2025 judging panel and co-hosts confirmed
Mixed opinion as Strictly Come Dancing 2025 judging panel and co-hosts confirmed The full judging panel and presenting line-up has been confirmed for the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing - splitting fan opinion Claudia Winkleman and Tess Daly are confirmed to return for the 2025 season of Strictly Come Dancing (Image: Mike Marsland, Mike Marsland/WireImagevia Getty Images ) Strictly Come Dancing is gearing up for the glitz and glamour of its 2025 series, revealing its line-up of judges and presenters; though not without stirring up mixed reactions from fans. The BBC took to the show's social media to confirm which familiar faces will be returning to the panel as well as the dynamic duo set to host the show. As has been the case since 2021, the judging panel will once again feature the beloved quartet of Anton Du Beke, Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse, and Craig Revel Horwood. The presenting team also remains a stead force, with Tess Daly and Claudia Winkleman bringing their trademark energy back to the stage. The BBC shared: "We've been limbering-up and practicing our curtseys, ready for the new series of Strictly with our amazing judging panel, Shirley, Anton, Motsi and Craig and our incredible MBE's Tess and Claudia - Congratulations on your FAB-U-LOUS achievement!", reports the Express. However, despite the return of these beloved TV personalities, some viewers' have been left feeling underwhelmed, as many were expecting a refresh particularly in light of speculation that Craig might depart the beloved dance contest. Expressions of surprise and relief have come thick and fast from the audience. Victoria Battman commented: "Wait what! ! ! I thought Craig was leaving happy he's staying but! ! ! ! ! ?". Article continues below Ashleigh Sarah Luckhurst pondered: "Am I only one that thinks the judging panel needs a good shake up? Especially after last year and blatant favouritism regardless of dance skills." And Karen Fox expressed joy at the news: "So happy Craig is there. I thought he was leaving. Wouldn't be the same without him." Some have opined that judges Shirley Ballas or Motsi Mabuse should have been replaced. Wendy Kitching stated: "Should got rid of Motsi and Shirley need a new vamp." While Sylvie Beckett echoed the sentiment with: "Shirley and Motsi need replacing." Conversely, others expressed excitement for Strictly's return sans alterations. Emmanuel Tsekouras shared: "I love these judges." Karen Proctor also showed anticipation: "Can't wait to watch the new season in September." For the latest TV and showbiz gossip sign up to our newsletter Article continues below Strictly 2024's crowning moment was comedian Chris McCausland's victory alongside professional dancer Dianne Buswell. Their unforgettable "blackout" dance captured the hearts of viewers on social media, featuring a unique move where Chris covered Dianne's eyes as darkness enveloped them, before re-emerging with her atop his shoulders amidst dazzling pyrotechnics, encapsulating his personal challenges as the programme's inaugural blind contestant following total sight loss at 22 due to retinitis.
Irish Examiner
a day ago
- Irish Examiner
Balance work and play by the sea, with tasteful treats in Kinsale
Kinsale really does have something to suit every taste when it comes to food, fun and entertainment. Digital Nomads If your 9-5 allows for time WFH, then Kinsale might just be the ideal place to balance work and play. Stunning short-term rentals via Airbnb offer funky coastal cabins to beach side retreats, downtown boltholes and glass-fronted harbourside apartments for memorable workdays. K-Works on Short Quay offer very flexible spaces and hours in a co-working environment which means that digital nomads can connect while cutting down the To Do list. K-Works on Short Quay, an attractive, professional co-working space in the heart of Kinsale. Grab lunch on the go with a choice of morning coffee and pastries from Seeds Bakery, great daily fresh bakes, soups and salads from Gourmet Pantry, or linger in the sunny courtyard of the Lemon Leaf café. When it's time to down tools, head to St Francis Provisions for an early doors glass of something natty and some small plates. Food Truckin' Lángos in Cork: Lángos are fried Hungarian flatbreads loaded with savoury toppings. Lángos in Cork operates from Garretstown Beach on Sundays throughout the summer serving loaded flatbreads and bowls of warming beef goulash. Perfect for a post dip and steam refuel. Spice Genie: Serving up dishes full of flavour and heart, the always-smiling Christopher Braganza's Spice Genie food truck operates from Kinsale Farmer's Market weekly with dishes inspired by his Goan roots. Always popular; always delicious. Shirley's Fish @ The Fort: Serving the kind of fresh off the boat fish supper dreams are made of Shirley's Fish @ The Fort has a loyal following for crisp golden fillets that make you say, Oooh! With the family in the fishing business, daily catch is landed and handed straight to Shirley - it couldn't be fresher! Located adjacent to Charles Fort. After Dark: Where to find the best sips after dark that only the locals know about. All Apologies x Post House: After dark, The Post House morphs into a cool hang out pouring class wines by the glass. All Apologies is the cocktail whirlwind that has been taking Kinsale by storm with its rip-roaring fun cocktail pop-ups. Together, they are teaming up for a one-off evening of great cocktails, nibbles and music for 'Midsummer's Day Dream' at the Post House's secret garden on July 20th from 12pm-8pm. Billed as a fundraiser for Gaza, the event will feature a summer spritz and aperitivo menu, flower crown making with Daisy Chain flowers, facepainting for kids (big and small), treats and snacks, and a DJ set from Stevie G, 6-8pm. Everyone is completely welcome, including your fur babies. Prim's Bookshop, Kinsale. Picture: Dan Linehan Prim's Bookstore: A bookstore by day and uber cool candle-lit natural wine and sherry bar by night, Prim's has a cult following that's rightly deserved. Spending an evening surrounded by books sipping natty wines and nibbling on salted olives, roasted Andalucian almonds and sherry infused chocolate truffles made by Koko Kinsale, and a penchant for hosting excellent and intimate gigs and you have perfection, served. July's aural pleasures include All Seeing Eyes (2nd), Trad Sessions (3rd and 16th), and Natalya Beylis & Eimear Reidy (21st). In August, Prim's hosts Caoilian Sherlock & Tessa Roche (11th), and Ger Wolfe & Rua Rí (25th). The Collector, Kinsale, the innovative coffee concept store. The Collector: Kinsale unique Coffee-ish and Concept Store, The Collector, is gearing up for a great summer of late night low and no sips every weekend from now until the end of August. Fridays are for leisurely exploring the ins and outs of sake, sparklers, new classics, zero-proof, and more. Saturday evenings, you can immerse yourself in a transformative theme that takes shape through featured cocktails, 'lite bites' and sounds. Sunday afternoons are for rosé sangria and spritzes served with gratis signature snacks. Teasing summer events coming include: 21st June, MacCurtain Wine Cellar is hosting a Collector takeover pouring their excellent wines by the glass. This is a preview to an exciting ongoing partnership for the summer with a MacCurtain Wine Cellar curated wine list. In July, themed cocktail nights include Stars & Stripes (5th), Tapas and Vermouth (19th) and a special pop-up with Wexford-based Bean & Goose Chocolate on 26th. Into August, discover a world of Saké & Snacks (2nd), collector co-founder Shannon's homage to her favourite cocktails of all with Tiki Time (9th), test out your Pop Culture Trivia (16th), and finally a focus on honey wines with Kinsale Mead (23rd). A cheese board at Lemon Leaf Bar Café & Townhouse, Kinsale. Late at The Leaf: Kinsale's much-loved Lemon Leaf Café is back with their Late at The Leaf evening service of gourmet dishes, cracking cocktails, DJs and vibes to see you right. The courtyard space is the place to be on a gorgeous summers' evening with a menu focused on nibbles, pintxos and small plates perfect for sharing or simply your own indulgence. Cocktails, such as Negroni Sbagliato, tickle the tastebuds.
Daily Record
16-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Andy Murray ditches granny's shortbread to become brand ambassador for rival
The Scots tennis icon has been announced as the first-ever brand ambassador for Walker's Shortbread - despite his gran being famous for her own sweet treats Sir Andy Murray could be in a spot of bother with his own granny – after he was named as brand ambassador for a shortbread firm, despite her own famous version of the biscuits. The Dunblane tennis icon has been announced as the first-ever brand ambassador for Walker's Shortbread. But the Wimbledon champ's own gran, Shirley Erskine, has often hit the headlines herself with her legendary shortbread. Her recipe has even featured in a special's Mother's Day recipe book created in support of Scottish charity Mary's Meals. The sweet treat was also a big hit with fellow contestants, pro dancers and judges when Shirley's daughter – Andy's mum Judy Murray – took part in 'Strictly Come Dancing'. Shirley even took along a tin when invited on to Mrs Brown's Saturday night chat show and made a tin which went all the way to Wimbledon in exchange for a £100 donation to the local Dunblane Centre. Shirley has even been known to serve up a baking masterclass to local schoolchildren to teach them how to make the traditional Scottish biscuit. Announcing the new partnership, Walker's Shortbread said the former Olympic champ had penned a multi-year partnership with the Moray-based firm. On the deal, Andy said: 'I'm proudly Scottish, and partnering with Walker's, a brand that has been representing Scotland around the world for well over a century, felt like a great fit for me. 'I come from a small tight-knit community and when I look back at where I have come from, I am proud of what I've achieved, which is something I share with Walker's. 'It's a real honour to be part of this next chapter for such a well-loved Scottish brand.' With 46 tour titles under his belt and three Grand Slam victories – the two-time Olympic Gold Medal winner, and self-proclaimed shortbread superfan, added: 'I've been eating shortbread since I was a kid – my gran would make it all the time for us. We even celebrated my Wimbledon win with shortbread. 'Shortbread is one of my simple pleasures. No matter where I am in the world, a piece of Walker's Shortbread always transports me back home.' The partnership also pays homage to Walker's own history with tennis. Winne Walker, mother of the late Joe, Marjorie and Sir Jim Walker, was a passionate tennis enthusiast who played a pivotal role in the local tennis community. Inspired by her love for the sport, which began during her university years, Winnie was instrumental in establishing the first tennis courts at Aberlour Tennis Club. Nicky Walker, Managing Director, Walker's Shortbread: 'We are incredibly excited to welcome Andy Murray as our very first brand ambassador. We've always admired Andy's achievements, his dedication and his cautious charisma as well as his very obvious close relationship with his own family. These are qualities that resonate deeply with our own values at Walker's Shortbread. We are genuinely honoured that Andy and his team have acknowledged Walker's as a suitable partner, and we are looking forward to this exciting new venture as we continue to promote 'Scotland at its Finest'.' The deal will see Andy featured in the firm's latest advertising campaign – where his image will appear at train stations across the UK.
Daily Mirror
16-06-2025
- Automotive
- Daily Mirror
Jeremy Clarkson's parents made a fortune by designing very famous toy
Jeremy Clarkson's mum always believed her son would not have had the TV career he did without Paddington Bear after the family played a big part in creating the ironic character TV star Jeremy Clarkson owes his career to Paddington Bear after his parents made mega money by designing the much-loved stuffed toy. Shirley and Eddie Clarkson's small design company led them to make the first-ever prototype of the character in 1972, which they gifted to their son Jeremy and daughter Joana for Christmas. Friends were quick to admire the toys so they started selling them in local shops in the 70s and the Clarkson couple modified Paddington's design to include his now-famous yellow wellington boots. However, issues soon came to the fore when the author of the Paddington series, Michael Bond, got wind of the couple selling the stuffed toy without copyright rights. The author asked his legal team to take action against the Clarksons, but one meeting between the Bond and the couple changed the trajectory of Paddington Bear forever. As legal actions boiled to a head, Eddie and Shirley travelled to London to meet with the authors' solicitors and happened to meet Bond in a lift. The author of the hit franchise quickly became pals with the couple and tensions around copyright soon melted away. "I got in the lift with Shirley and Eddie," Bond told The Sunday Times."They were terribly nice and pretended it had all been a mistake - and we were friends by the time we got out of the lift. I gave them a licence." That moment of kindness in the lift changed the Clarksons' lives, as the family went on to sell millions of bears and Paddington-themed products across the globe. After a huge success, the Clarkson couple eventually sold the stuffed bear rights to toy stalwart Hamleys. Shirley told AutoTrader in 2010 that he would not have had the TV career he did without Paddington Bear. The millionaire broadcaster also attended two private schools thanks to his parent's entrepreneurial success - Hill House School in Doncaster and Repton School in Derbyshire. The Paddington Bear website says: 'The very first Paddington bear soft toy was designed in the UK by a lady called Shirley Clarkson. She made it as a Christmas present for her children, Joanna and Jeremy Clarkson (who was to go on to become a world famous motoring journalist). "So many people admired Shirley's Paddington that she started to make some more until her company, Gabrielle Designs and was granted an official licence to sell them in the UK in 1972." When Paddington author passed away in 2017, the TV presenter wrote an emotional statement on Twitter to honour his family's relationship with him. He wrote: "Very sad to hear Michael Bond has died. I knew him for 45 years and rarely met anyone kinder or more gentle."
