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RTÉ News
02-07-2025
- RTÉ News
Dawn hikes, sound baths and yoga – experiencing a different Ibiza
A new wellness package curated by TV presenter Fearne Cotton shines a new light on the Balearic island, says Camilla Foster. As I cautiously round the curve of the rocky trail, my gaze is instantly drawn to the dramatic, jagged silhouette of Es Vedrà rising from the serene Balearic Sea before me. This legendary limestone monolith in Ibiza is a magnet for sightseers due to the numerous myths and legends that surround it, explains our tour guide Pablo Léonard, co-founder of Into The Island Ibiza Tours. Es Vedrà is associated with the sirens from Homer's Odyssey and is considered to be one of the most powerful energy spots on earth, and Pablo reveals that this trail offers some of the best, yet little-known, viewpoints of it. This calm, tranquil scene feels worlds away from the stereotypes often associated with Ibiza's party reputation. But, as Pablo points out, there are so many more layers to the Mediterranean island than its nightlife. We're on the quiet southwest coast, far from the bustling party hubs, and in the stillness of the early morning, it feels as though we have the island entirely to ourselves. For Pablo, who first arrived in Ibiza as a teenager and now calls it his forever home, the island offers a slower pace of life, breathtaking natural beauty, and a deep sense of peace. Thanks to the spiritual significance of Es Vedrà, Ibiza is becoming an increasingly popular destination for wellness seekers looking to meditate, recharge and reconnect. The sky was a vibrant mix of orange, pink and red warm hues at 6am when we started our hike that morning. Sunrise is the best time to see Ibiza in all its natural glory, Pablo reassured us as we rubbed our eyes and did our best to hide our yawns. As we climbed into the 4×4 to begin our early morning adventure, I caught eyes with a group of partygoers returning to our hotel – the glorious Mondrian, which oozes style and sophistication. We represented two very different lifestyles that easily co-exist on the island. Someone who knows both sides of Ibiza very well is beloved British broadcaster and author Fearne Cotton. The BBC Radio 2 DJ and founder of the Happy Place brand first visited Ibiza in 2007 to film with Dannii Minogue for The Xtra Factor, and fell in love with the island's energy and people. Six years later, after giving birth to her son Rex, she discovered her love for yoga. To mark this long-standing love affair with the island, the broadcaster has curated a half-day Ibiza: Unplugged wellness experience with GetYourGuide, which includes a sunrise hike, a beach-side yoga session, sound bath and a boat trip for €40 on select dates in August. "Doing yoga outdoors is wonderful, especially in the quiet, early hours," says Cotton, who was on the island ahead of my visit to make final tweaks to the tour. Hiking is another way that the broadcaster has got to know the ins and outs of Ibiza's gorgeous natural landscape. "A friend here invited me on a hike led by a local guide. It was about four hours long, and he showed us all the local plants and trees," she enthuses. "We picked almonds and swam in the sea at sunset. I really got to know the island better during that time." If Cotton had to sum up Ibiza in one word, it would be "magical". "It's naturally a magical place. You can't really articulate it; you just have to experience it," explains Cotton. "Whether you're clubbing or exploring the quieter side, you feel that magic as soon as you arrive. The northern parts of the island are rugged and rural, not built up, and that's heaven for me. You're surrounded by nature, without tall buildings and hotels clogging the skyline." After our hike, we head to a wellness morning retreat, where orange yoga mats, lanterns and water bottles are thoughtfully arranged on a tranquil, shaded patch of woodland that looks out over a secluded beach. The 45-minute beginner yoga session rekindles my passion for the practice, as our instructor takes the time to check in with each participant and offer personalised modifications. I close my eyes and stretch out widely on the mat during the sound bath, which follows to fully immerse myself in the vibrations of the gongs, singing bowls and chimes. When the sound bath practitioner Josie Danielle, who lives within Ibiza's mountains, gently touches my forehead with a tuning fork, any previous thoughts and stresses are instantly zapped from my mind. Her gentle voice, coupled with the soft vibrations of her instruments, creates a deeply full-body meditative experience. Only the sound of curious lizards scuttling across my yoga mat is enough to abruptly bring me back to reality. One of the best ways to discover Ibiza's natural beauty is by sea, and luckily, the last part of our wellness adventure is a one-and-a-half-hour cruise around the island. In his element, Pablo enthusiastically takes on the role of captain and gleefully wizzes the speedboat away from the port at full throttle. The hum of the engine only fades as we approach a breathtaking, hidden cove. As I glide through the crystal-clear turquoise waters, I daydream about what it would be like to leave my bustling life in London behind to become a yoga teacher and live within the mountains of Ibiza with the mischievous lizards. Ibiza has a special energy to it, and if you look in the right places, you will find a beautiful, slower and soul-nourishing pace of life.
The Irish Sun
17-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Inside Brian Barry-Murphy's life from TV star wife & kids to Cork GAA icon dad adored by Roy Keane
BRIAN Barry-Murphy's soccer coaching career reached new heights on Monday as he was appointed Leicester City's latest head coach. It's a clear sign that 6 Monday saw him confirmed as the Championship club's new boss Credit: PA 6 His wife Sarah-Jane Crawford is a high-profile figure herself owing to her TV and radio work Credit: Sarah-Jane Crawford Facebook 6 Brian joked he was doing some 'proper coaching' in this cute snap with their two daughters Credit: @brianbarrymurphy 6 Cork GAA fans will need no introduction as to who his father is Credit: Sportsfile - Subscription Having wound up his playing days Rochdale where he spent eight seasons, he was installed as the club's caretaker manager in 2019 after the departure of Keith Hill. Their fortunes improved under his watch such that his status was made permanent with him ultimately choosing to depart the club two years later. At that juncture he was tempted away to take over Manchester City's academy. His exact job title was manager of the club's Elite Development Squad. Read More On Irish Football That post raised his profile significantly across the Irish Sea as he worked with future Prem stars like He opted to leave this role in July before embarking on what turned out to be mission impossible of saving The Foxes from relegation with van Nistelrooy in December after Steve Cooper's sacking. Here, SunSport chronicle his life beyond the beautiful game: Who is Brian Barry-Murphy's wife? He is married to Sarah-Jane Crawford who is arguably more famous than he is owing to her various presenting work with ITV and the BBC. Most read in Football Among her credits are The Xtra Factor while she currently works on-air with Vanessa Feltz on her daily Channel 5 afternoon show. There's only 16 months between her and Brian's daughters. In one interview, Michail Antonio plays first match just six months after near-death Ferrari crash that 'completely shattered' his leg She smiled: "People say, 'Oh, brilliant, our kids grew up together, they're best friends'. "I think there's a lot of practical reasons and emotional reasons, in terms of siblings, why it's good. But I don't think I've necessarily had the luxury to think, 'You know what, I'll space them out a bit'." Who is his dad Jimmy Barry-Murphy? GAA agnostics may not realise it but he's the son of Cork GAA royalty. His dad Jimmy was the ultimate dual star who helped the county to six All-Ireland triumphs across Gaelic football and hurling as a player. In addition to that, the seven-time All-Star (five in hurling, two in football) guided their hurlers to hoist Liam MacCarthy in 1995 while he returned for a second stint in charge between 2011-2015. 6 Jimmy is a revered figure in his native county 6 He won everything there was to win with Cork and his club St Finbarr's Credit: Sportsfile - Subscription He did so on a Monday Night Football appearance in 2022 - in spite of his Sky Sports colleagues not then seeming sure what to ask about this mystery figure. Keano hailed: "Growing up again in Ireland - the GAA was a big part of my life. Hurling - watching Jimmy Barry-Murphy playing for Cork - you know, brilliant sportsman." The 70-year-old modestly remarked: "It was very, very special. I was delighted actually. "I was shocked for somebody like Roy, who I have great admiration for and he's probably our greatest ever sportsman to come out of Cork. "Himself and Denis Irwin were extraordinary. Denis is a Barr man, of course, so I have to give him a mention. But Roy, it was a lovely thing to say and I really appreciate it, I must say."
Scottish Sun
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Flackstock line up revealed as Spice Girl and 00s pop icons join festival in memory of Love Island's Caroline Flack
The event has a huge new venue change for 2025 pop fest Flackstock line up revealed as Spice Girl and 00s pop icons join festival in memory of Love Island's Caroline Flack Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) SPICE Girl Mel C, popstar Pixie Lott and vocalist Alfie Boe lead the line-up for Flackstock's annual festival - which heads to London this summer. The family-friendly day of music and performance celebrates the life of late Love Island anchor Caroline Flack and raises both awareness of mental health and cash for related charities. Sign up for the Entertainment newsletter Sign up 8 The line-up for the fourth Flackstock festival has been revealed Credit: Getty 8 Spice Girl Melanie C will round off the festival with a DJ set Credit: Getty 8 Tenor Alfie Boe is on the set list for the family-friendly festival Credit: Getty 8 Flackstock is held in memory of the late Love Island host Caroline Flack Credit: Rex Caroline's loved ones decided that they wanted to set up the festival as a way to cope with their own grief and bring people together to remember the presenter, who passed five years ago. This time around, the event has moved to a new venue in Crystal Palace Bowl, London, as part of South Facing Festival. Wannabe hitmaker Mel C will close the event on August 8 with a top DJ set. Yet during the day, Alfie and Pixie will take to the stage, as well as Boyzlife - who are making their Flackstock debut. S Club 7's Jo O'Meara and Jon Lee will be bringing further pop to the proceedings while Love Island alum-turned-musician Wes Nelson is also on the setlist. Carrie-Oke – in memory of Caroline – will feature the Neptunes Choir with Mazz Murray and Ginger Johnson bringing the good vibes, with more acts yet to be released. Last year, Caroline's close pal and former The Xtra Factor co-host Olly Murs headlined the event, filled with comedy, dance and music. Meanwhile, the festival committee includes Caroline's mother Christine and sister Jody, and friends Natalie Pinkham, Dawn O'Porter, Anna Blue, Sarah Tyekiff and Katie Joyce. Co-Founder, actress and writer Dawn, said of the 2025 event - the fourth of its kind: "This year we are in London on the tube route and it's on a Friday too – so we can all party for the weekend at Flackstock. "It's also the best day out for kids – the perfect introduction to festival season for all the family. Caroline Flack tribute concert line-up revealed with huge acts as Flackstock charity fundraiser returns "It's a wonderful safe site. Surrounded by beautiful trees and the stage floats on a lake. "There is plenty of space for all our usual activities like the Mindfulness Tent, a VIP section and there will be the usual loads of food vendors and of course, plenty of bars. "We cannot wait for a fresh take on our fourth year in existence – and an amazing line up!' Money raised from Flackstock 2025 will once again be split equally between Choose Love, Mind, Samaritans and Charlie Waller Trust – four worthy outlets that held a special place in Caroline's heart. A fifth charity, the Flackstock Fund has also been revealed and will be supporting other mental health charities throughout the year. So far, the festival has raised over £700,000 for the charities. Love Island host Caroline, 40, took her own life in February 2020. Last year, the committee said: 'Flackstock was an incredible way to remember Caroline, but it became so much more — a place full of joy where people felt comfortable talking about mental health. 'There has been an overwhelming desire for us to return.' Flackstock runs on Friday August 8 from 4pm at Crystal Palace Bowl. Tickets are on sale now. 8 Boyzlife have been confirmed to perform Credit: Splash 8 Pixie Lott, who performed at the festival in 2023, is back for another year Credit: Getty 8 Olly Murs headlined last year for the event which raises funds for mental health charities as well as awareness of mind health in general Credit: Getty
The Irish Sun
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Flackstock line up revealed as Spice Girl and 00s pop icons join festival in memory of Love Island's Caroline Flack
SPICE Girl Mel C, popstar Pixie Lott and vocalist Alfie Boe lead the line-up for Flackstock's annual festival - which heads to London this summer. The family-friendly day of music and performance celebrates the life of late Love Island anchor Caroline Flack and raises both awareness of mental health and cash for related charities. Advertisement 8 The line-up for the fourth Flackstock festival has been revealed Credit: Getty 8 Spice Girl Melanie C will round off the festival with a DJ set Credit: Getty 8 Tenor Alfie Boe is on the set list for the family-friendly festival Credit: Getty 8 Flackstock is held in memory of the late Love Island host Caroline Flack Credit: Rex Caroline's loved ones decided that they wanted to set up the festival as a way to cope with their own grief and bring people together to remember the presenter , who passed five years ago. This time around, the event has moved to a new venue in Crystal Palace Bowl, London, as part of South Facing Festival. Wannabe hitmaker Mel C will close the event on August 8 with a top DJ set. Yet during the day, Alfie and Pixie will take to the stage, as well as Boyzlife - who are making their Flackstock debut. Advertisement read more flackstock S Club 7's Jo O'Meara and Jon Lee will be bringing further pop to the proceedings while Love Island alum-turned-musician Wes Nelson is also on the setlist. Carrie-Oke – in memory of Caroline – will feature the Neptunes Choir with Mazz Murray and Ginger Johnson bringing the good vibes, with more acts yet to be released. Last year, Caroline's close pal and former The Xtra Factor co-host Meanwhile, the festival committee includes Caroline's mother Christine and sister Jody, and friends Natalie Pinkham, Dawn O'Porter, Anna Blue, Sarah Tyekiff and Katie Joyce. Advertisement Most read in Music Exclusive Exclusive Co-Founder, actress and writer Dawn, said of the 2025 event - the fourth of its kind: "This year we are in London on the tube route and it's on a Friday too – so we can all party for the weekend at Flackstock. "It's also the best day out for kids – the perfect introduction to festival season for all the family. Caroline Flack tribute concert line-up revealed with huge acts as Flackstock charity fundraiser returns "It's a wonderful safe site. Surrounded by beautiful trees and the stage floats on a lake. "There is plenty of space for all our usual activities like the Mindfulness Tent, a VIP section and there will be the usual loads of food vendors and of course, plenty of bars. Advertisement "We cannot wait for a fresh take on our fourth year in existence – and an amazing line up!' Money raised from Flackstock 2025 will once again be split equally between Choose Love, Mind, Samaritans and Charlie Waller Trust – four worthy outlets that held a special place in Caroline's heart. A fifth charity, the Flackstock Fund has also been revealed and will be supporting other mental health charities throughout the year. So far, the festival has raised over £700,000 for the charities. Advertisement Love Island host Caroline, 40, Last year, the committee said: 'Flackstock was an incredible way to 'There has been an overwhelming desire for us to return.' Flackstock runs on Friday August 8 from 4pm at Crystal Palace Bowl. Advertisement 8 Boyzlife have been confirmed to perform Credit: Splash 8 Pixie Lott, who performed at the festival in 2023, is back for another year Credit: Getty 8 Olly Murs headlined last year for the event which raises funds for mental health charities as well as awareness of mind health in general Credit: Getty Advertisement 8 This year, the event has moved to Crystal Palace Bowl on August 8 Credit: Getty
Metro
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
GMB star reveals six-pack in Superman-style transformation after turning 50
Good Morning Britain star Ben Shephard has recreated his Men's Health cover from 13 years ago as he spoke about staying fit in his 50s. The ITV presenter, 50, revealed that the key to his workouts was not a specific exercise but instead was 'consistency.' He also admitted that health and fitness were 'easier' to maintain in his 50s compared to when he was in his 30s. The This Morning star told Men's Health UK: 'I have a deeper understanding of what I have to put myself through to build lean muscle and reduce body fat. 'To get stronger, physically and mentally, is definitely harder the older you get. In my forties, I was still on the attack. In my fifties, I'm on the defensive. It's all about how I prolong things now – not going out and smashing it left, right and centre. 'Proving to yourself you have the discipline to do something, proving you can be accountable to yourself, is incredibly seductive and infectious. The more you get of that, the more you want it.' In his cover shoot for the publication, Ben posed shirtless with exercise equipment, including a wall ball and a 10kg weight training disc, but said that his abs were 'really made in the kitchen.' He continued: 'My wife does most of the cooking, and I'm turning around saying, 'I've got to have enough protein.' '[We came up with an agreement that I would get what I needed in terms of protein during the day so I could enjoy our dinners. 'You can leave stuff out that you don't necessarily want, but we still want to share that moment in the evening.' Ben said he appreciates his body even more now than when he posed for Men's Health in 2012. He said: 'I think I value the condition I'm in now more than in 2012. I've got more lean muscle, that's for sure. 'There are parts of my body that are bigger. I think my body fat is a little bit higher than it was then. Back then it was probably single figures and I think I'm about 10.5% to 10.8% now – which is extraordinary when you think I'm 13 years older.' He also said he 'loves' the idea of recreating the Men's Health shoot for a second time when he turns 60. Ben's career kicked off in 1998 when he began presenting Channel 4 spin-off show The Bigger Breakfast, alongside presenters including Melanie Sykes and Dermot O'Leary. For the broadcaster, he also hosted T4, What's Cooking and Control Freaks. Between 2004 and 2006, Ben helmed the first three series of ITV spin-off programme The Xtra Factor. More Trending In 2000, he joined breakfast show GMTV and became Fiona Phillips' co-host five years later after the departure of Eamonn Holmes. In 2014, Ben started co-presenting Good Morning Britain alongside Kate Garraway and Susanna Reid. He quit the show a decade later to host This Morning with Cat Deeley. The full interview is available in the June issue of Men's Health UK, on sale now . Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. View More » MORE: Lorraine Kelly reveals heartbreaking impact of surgery on beloved granddaughter MORE: Good Morning Britain 'to undergo biggest overhaul in 11 years' ahead of major change MORE: Richard Madeley admits what 'saved his 39-year marriage' to Judy Finnigan
