Good Morning Britain viewers labelled an interview with Labour MP and former diplomat Hamish Falconer “cringe” as the politician was asked about Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s recognition of a Palestinian state and the possible impact on remaining Hamas hostages.

On Sunday, the Prime Minister announced the decision to recognise a statehood – a move that has sparked divided responses.

 

During Monday’s Good Morning Britain, host Susanna Reid welcomed Mr Falconer and asked him to “explain to our viewers and the families of the hostages that remain in Gaza why this is not a massive win for Hamas.”

Mr Falconer, who has served as Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Middle East, Afghanistan and Pakistan since last year, replied: “Good morning. Let me just start with the hostage families, who I’ve met many times as the minister, I used to be a hostage negotiator.

Hamish Falconer was blasted by some ITV viewers tuned into the interview

“The anguish that they have felt is obviously absolutely enormous. It’s been a hellish rollercoaster for them.

“As I said to them a few weeks ago when I met them, everything that we are doing, we have the hostages in mind.

“It is vital for the hostages, as most families with loved ones still detained say, that there is a path towards an agreement.

“It has been agreements that has secured the release of the previous hostage releases, and what we are doing is try to make those agreements more likely.

“We secured, in July, a commitment from all 22 members – the countries who were part of the Arab League – that Hamas must have no role in the future of Gaza, that they must be disarmed.

“What we are doing in relation to recognition is far from rewarding Hamas. It’s trying to create the conditions for their total defeat.”

Co-presenter Richard Madeley hit back: “The situation where the hostages find themselves this morning is improved from the situation they were in at this time yesterday morning? Are you serious in saying that you’ve done them a favour?”

“Of course, the situation today is not different from what it was yesterday,” Mr Falconer responded, to which Mr Madeley interjected: “It’s worse for the hostages, surely?”

“The hostages are held by Hamas. Hamas do not believe in a two-state solution,” Mr Falconer clarified.

“They believe in a one-state solution, from the river to the sea. What we are doing is creating the conditions for two states, recognising the second of those states, the state of Palestine.

Sir Keir said: ‘Today, to revive the hope of peace for the Palestinians and Israelis, and a two-state solution

“We are trying to create the conditions whereby a comprehensive ceasefire is easier, because it is clear who would take over in Gaza -”

“Could you not wait for the hostages to be released?” Mr Madeley pressed on, adding: “I mean, because you could be wrong, your calculations could be way off centre, as far as they’re concerned.

“Why didn’t you just wait for that situation to resolve itself before recognising the state of Palestine?

“Why not just wait a bit until the hostages were at least safe? Those of whom are left alive, safe and sound.”

“Richard, if you speak to the hostage families and you ask for them to wait, they will tell you how long they have been waiting,” Mr Falconer pointed out.

“You are right that not all the hostages who are still unaccounted for are likely to be alive. We have done everything that we can, and we will continue to do everything that we can.

“I am also the minister responsible for British nationals in trouble overseas. I work every day on cases of British nationals detained.

“This is nothing but the highest possible priority. But we could not wait.

“The situation is deteriorating for the hostages, for the Palestinians in Gaza, for those in the West Bank who are facing an increasing number of violent settlements.

“Time is running out, and we have to act now to hold open the possibility of two states’ moderate governance, the defeat of Hamas and two peoples living in peace side by side.”

Hamish Falconer joined GMB for an interview on Monday’s edition of the ITV show

Reacting to the interview, several ITV viewers criticised the decision as well as Mr Falconer’s responses.

One penned on X: “So cringe!! On every level. On top of it all, the lady reading while simultaneously butting in, distracting everyone.”

Another argued: “It’s a win for Hamas, doesn’t matter what this guy says, Starmer and his collection of buffoons are deluded and make bad decisions every time they let their lips flap. Because you have their promise Hamas will not have any role in the future it must be so. UK’s led by donkeys.”

“We’ve recognised Hamas, its a dark day for Great Britain,” a third complained.

Hamish Falconer was asked on ITV GMB about Hamas hostages

“Clueless man, shameful man! He & @UKLabour have left the hostages to suffer more in the hands of Hamas, whilst rewarding the terrorists! My Labour loyalty is 100% gone!” another wrote.

“The UK doesn’t recognise the state, the Labour government do, they don’t speak for me,” another added.

Someone else shared: “They’re only doing this to keep the back benches happy.”

However, others took a different view, with some instead questioning the presenters’ line of questioning.

“A win for Hamas? That’s like saying a soggy biscuit is a victory for the tea—doesn’t quite add up. Recognition should mean peace, not more chaos,” one posted.

“Palestine doesnt exist as a state they say? Well neither did Israel 80 years ago. That was until the world caved into Zionist terrorism Palestine pre WW2 had Arabs & Jews co existing peacefully Millions of Jews are not Zionist extremists They deserve peace too and are delighted,” one ore wrote.

 

Strictly Come Dancing is all very much glitz and glam but this weekend the stakes are being raised as the first couple are set to be elimination from the competition on Sunday.

Last weekend, we saw what this year’s stars were made of and earlier favourites to win – and leave – the competition came to light. Fans were left in awe as Karen Carney, who’s secret dance past has been revealed, and Carlos Gu topped the leaderboard, while Lewis Cope and Katya Jones came in second place and Amber Davies and Nikita Kuzmin came in third following the judges’ scores on their first dances.

Meanwhile Lorraine star Ross King, who recently opened up about his record-breaking score, and Jowita Przystal took last place, just behind Chris Robshaw and Nadiya Bychkova and Thomas Skinner and Amy Dowden.

This weekend, the celebrities and their partners will have another chance to strut their stuff in front of the judges – while viewers will also be able to vote for the favourite couples, although the show recently announced a huge change to their voting system.

While the stars and professionals limber up and get into hair and makeup, we’ll be bringing you all the action from on and off our TV screens. Stay tuned!

00:22Paige Ingram

Fans react after last night’s show

Taking to social media viewers shared their thoughts on last night’s show. Over on Instagram one Strictly fan wrote: “So proud of Jimmy and Lauren! Totally deserve it” While another wrote: “If it’s not Ross or Tommy in the dance off, I’ll be shocked.”

Viewers also compared the line-up this year to previous years, with one fan saying: “it’s so hard to call this year.” Another picked up on the mood between the judges, saying: “Is it just me or was there something off with the judges tonight. Craig seemed off and there was an atmosphere between them all, they all looked sad after each dance.”

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23:23Paige Ingram

The Strictly leaderboard

22:07Daniel Bird

Chris speaks out after wife’s comments

Chris Robshaw has spoken out after his wife mentioned an unfair advantage on Strictly, citing Amber Davies and Lewis Cope’s previous dance experience.

But Nadiya Bychkova, Chris’s professional partner, believes he has what it takes to overcome the disadvantages. “Chris is taking all the information on board. He just needs a few more weeks to kind of get to the point, and then I think he’ll be really ready to perform the way I think he can to his full abilities,” she says.

“It’s the experience of knowing how to do that, which is completely new and which you can’t get overnight, but I think this is what the show is about, for people who never danced before. We often don’t get to see it because like people who don’t have this experience would sometimes leave the show earlier, which is really sad because there is often so much talent in there, and it’s always so nice for the audience to see it.”

Speaking on his wife’s comment, Chris said: “I love my wife and she’s my biggest supporter. She wants us to do well in the competition, and that’s kind of it really.”

On what he thinks of the range of dancing abilities, Chris added: “It is what it is, isn’t it? In SAS you could say I was fitter than some of the other people, and then that’s kind of it.”

21:10Jordan Lloyd Beck

Who will get the casting vote in tomorrow’s dance-off?

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It’s less than 24 hours until viewers find out which celebrity is the first one out of the competition, and at the end of the live show on Saturday, it was revealed who out of Shirley Ballas, Motsi Mabuse, Anton Du Beke and Craig Revel Horwood, as part of a new ‘twist’ on the system. For seven years, head judge Shirley has had the power but all that has now changed.

The bottom two couples will face the dance-off and Tess said: “We can now reveal that the judge who will have the casting vote in that decision is Motsi!” Claudia then reminded viewers that pop star Zara Larsson will be performing, and there will be a routine from the professionals as well.

20:59KEY EVENT

Birthday girl Amber Davies tops the leader board with 56 points!

Musical theatre star Amber Davies, who was ushered in as a replacement for fellow Love Island winner Dani Dyer, topped the leaderboard with a score of 56. This week’s scores take into account last week’s points as well, and after scooping up 29 points from the judges for her Samba that was set to a Camila Cabello track, she was firmly in the lead.

It was extra-special for Amber, who will be starring as Elle Woods in next year’s UK tour of Legally Blonde: The Musical, as today she is celebrating her 29th birthday and earlier in the show had been presented with a cake.

Amber and Nikita have topped the leaderboard this week (

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Guy Levy/BBC/PA)

Amber & Nikita – 56

Lewis & Katya – 55

George & Alexis – 54

Jimmy & Lauren – 52

Alex and Johannes – 52

Vicky & Kai – 47

Balvinder & Julian – 47

Harry & Karen – 45

La Voix & Aljaz – 43

Ellie & Vito – 40

Stefan & Dianne – 39

Chris & Nadiya – 30

Tom & Amy – 29

Ross & Jowita – 25

20:46Jordan Lloyd Beck

EastEnders star Balvinder Sopal closes out the show dancing to to Meghan Trainor hit

The EastEnders actress, whos stars as Suki Panesar on the BBC soap, was the first celeb to take on the Charleston this year, and she and her partner Julian Caillon scored a 30 for their routine that was set to the Meghan Trainor hit Been Like This.

20:44Jordan Lloyd Beck

George Clarke left ‘speechless’ after Motsi Mabuse’s feedback

George Clarke was left ‘speechless’ when Motsi Mabuse said: “I think we have someone very special here.” The YouTube star had just performed the Paso doble with his professional partner Alexis Warr. The couple then collected a combined score of 30. Craig and Motsi both issued them a 7 and they picked up an 8 from Shirley and Anton.

20:40KEY EVENT

Stefan Dennis falls and Dianne Buswell catches him

Neighbours legend Stefan told the judges he was “petrified” before taking to the stage for the Cha Cha Cha, and it appeared those nerves may have continued as he left the stage. As he climbed the steps there was panic as he misplaced his footing and tripped up the stairs.

A panicky Dianne caught him and exclaimed: “Golly gosh. Be careful, be careful.” Read more about the incident here.

Strictly chaos as Dianne Buswell panics as Stefan Dennis falls on stairs

20:21KEY EVENT

Ross King bursts into tears

Ross King burst into tears during his performance. Jowita Przystal, revealed they would be dancing the waltz to The Proclaimers’ tune Sunshine On Leith, Ross took her to Loch Lomond. There, the pair opened up on why the area was so special to Ross.

Ross described himself as a “very proud Scots person”. And he explained he moved away for work, but could envision himself returning one day. When Jowita asked why the loch has a special place in his heart, he said: “So many memories around here.” The video showed the luscious scenery as the pair took to the water.

He then got emotional as he said: “My school friends, sister, yeah, I think about my mum and dad when I’m here. It’s special. It’s happy. It’s a happy cry.” And the tears continued following his dance on the floor. The duo embraced as Ross wiped away the tears after completing their routine.

Judge already ‘predicts winner’

While Strictly might only just be getting started, Shirley Ballas has already predicted who could win.

Geordie Shore star Vicky Pattison has already made a lasting impression with her professional co-star, Kai Widdrington, as they danced the foxtrot to Rein Me In by Sam Fender and Olivia Dean.

This week, the pair scored an impressive 24 points after receiving six across the board. Shirley said that Vicky could go “all the way” and told Kai to “push her and make her shift!”

Shirley believes one celebrity can go ‘all the way’ (

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20:02Daniel Bird

Strictly legend Len Goodman remembered

Following Vicky Pattison’s sensational performance, judge Anton Du Beke honoured former head judge Len Goodman. Len had appeared on the show since it launched in 2004 and later stepped down in 2016. He died aged 78 on April 22, 2023.

But his close friend, Anton said Len “would love that heel turn” when talking to Geordie Shore star, Vicky.

20:01KEY EVENT

Amy’s heartfelt admission

Professional dancer Amy Dowden has been extremely open with fans about her cancer journey, having beaten the cruel disease.

During Saturday night’s live show, the professional star opened up about the biggest lesson she has learnt over the past few years. After dancing to Dizzee Rascal’s hit song, Bonkers, Amy opened up to host Tess Daly.

Amy said: “If I’ve learned anything in the last two years, life is too short, take risks.”

Amy opened up to host Tess Daly (

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BBC)

19:45Jordan Lloyd Beck

Harry scores 26

Craig – 6

Motsi – 7

Shirley – 6

Anton – 7

19:40Jordan Lloyd Beck

Thomas scores 13

Craig – 2

Motsi – 3

Shirley – 4

Anton – 4

19:39Jordan Lloyd Beck

Thomas Skinner takes to the floor in sparkling vest

This week, Apprentice star Thomas and his professional partner Amy Dowden did a Sasla set to Dizzee Rascal’s Bonkers. The audience cheered when he lifted Amy up but his sparkling vest caused a bit of a stir on social media.

Craig Revel Horwood remarked: “It looked like you were competing in a weightlifting competition in Skegness, darling. It was just powerless” and Shirley Ballas said: “Well, you gave it a go…”

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19:25Jordan Lloyd Beck

Ellie scores 23 for her waltz!

Craig – 5

Motsi Mabuse – 6

Shirley – 6

Anton – 6

19:23Jordan Lloyd Beck

Alex scores 31!

Craig – 7

Motsi – 8

Shirley – 8

Anton – 8

19:22Jordan Lloyd Beck

Alex and Johannes do the Samba to La Bamba

Doctor Who’s Alex Kingston and Johannes Radebe looked stunning in pastel colours as they did the samba round the floor to a Connie Francis classic.

19:14Jordan Lloyd Beck

Lewis scores 27!

Craig – 7

Motsi – 7

Shirley – 6

Anton – 7

19:13Jordan Lloyd Beck

Shirley booed as she delivers harsh feedback to Emmerdale’s Lewis Cope

Fans of Strictly are familiar with Craig Revel Horwood being booed for his acerbic comments, but it’s a rare occurence for head judge Shirley Ballas. After Emmerdale star Lewis Cope and Katya Jones did their Viennese waltz to Teddy Swims’ Lose Control, she had some constructive criticism to dish out.

19:03Jordan Lloyd Beck

Jimmy score 19

Craig – 6

Motsi – 6

Shirley – 6

Anton – 7

19:00Jordan Lloyd Beck

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink reveals ‘frustrations’ ahead of performance

Footballer Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink and Lauren Oakley did the cha cha cha to I Heard It Through The Grapevine and just moments before it all kicked off, he said he was ‘really trying’ with it all. He said: “I do get frustrated with myself, my background is football and you have that winner mentality. You’re really hard on yourself when you need to give yourself a little bit more grace.

18:55Jordan Lloyd Beck

Karen scores 20

Craig – 4

Motsi – 5

Shirley – 5

Anton – 6

18:53Jordan Lloyd Beck

Karen and Carlos do the Tango to Dua Lipa track

Lioness Karen Carney and Carlos Gu topped the leaderboard last week and their scores will be carried over to this week. This time, they wowed in a Tango all set to Dua Lipa’s Training Season.

Afterwards, Motsi warned them that posture needed more consideration but praised them for their ‘speed and attack’ on the routine.

Anton predicted that the footballer will be a ‘powerhouse’ in the competition going forward, and she told them she was having the ‘best time’ with it all so far.

18:46Jordan Lloyd Beck

La Voix scores 19

Craig – 4

Motsi – 5

Shirley – 5

Anton – 5

18:36Jordan Lloyd Beck

La Voix and Aljaz Skorjanec open the show to Shakira classic

Drag queen La Voix Aljaz Skorjanec opned the show with a Jive set to Shakira’s hit single Objection (Tango), and their VT showed Ajlaz attending his co-star’s show earlier this week.

Shirley noted that the routine needed ‘more rotation’ and thinks that the Drag Race star could do ‘better’, whilst Anton assured them that it was entertaining overall.

Afterwards, La Voix told Tess: “We thought that was gonna be a tango!” and instanly made a joke about her red power suit, joking that the TV star “used to work at Butlins.”

18:12KEY EVENT

Who will be the first to go?

As is tradition, no one was eliminated in the inaugural week of the competition, although, as fans will know, technically, Dani Dyer was the first to go, as, following the pre-recorded launch show, she suffered an injury and had to leave.

She’s been replaced by Love Island winner and musical theatre star Amber Davies. Last week, Karen Carney topped the leaderboard with a respectable score of 31. At the other end was showbiz guru Ross King, who managed to score just 10.

17:18Daniel Bird

Claudia’s private life and unexpected royal relative

Claudia was an only child, but later gained two siblings when her parents got divorced and found love with new partners.

Her mother Eve’s second marriage gave her a younger half-brother called Oliver, and her dad’s second marriage got her a half-sister Sophie Winkleman.

Actress Sophie is known for her appearances on Peep Show and Two and a Half Men. Claudia also has a royal link as her sister Sophie tied the knot with Lord Frederick Windsor in 2009. Lord Frederick is the son of Prince and Princess Michael of Kent. Prince Michael of Kent is the late Queen Elizabeth II’s first cousin, as they were both grandchildren of King George V.

Because of Sophie’s marriage, she is now known as Lady Frederick Windsor. The actress even attended the wedding of Lady Gabriella Windsor alongside Prince Harry in 2019. She even has a good relationship with King Charles.

16:03Daniel Bird

Strictly bosses done ‘great job’ with line-up

Former celebrity contestant Angela Scanlon believes that bosses have done a ‘great job’ with this year’s line-up.

Speaking to the Mirror, she said: “I think there’s always speculation around the line-up, every year,” she says. “People are either too famous or not famous enough or they’re from reality TV. People have things to say, but I think mostly you’ll find brilliant personalities and a really gorgeous cross-section of people from lots of different walks of life – different opinions, different life experiences, different age groups. It feels like a very varied bunch. I think they’ve done a great job.”

14:52Amy Denman

Amber Davies’ sweet surprise

The second week of live shows is a particularly special one for Love Island star Amber Davies, as she is also celebrating her birthday today!

In a sweet Instagram video, Amber revealed how her dance partner Nikita Kuzmin surprised her with a sweet gift to mark the special occasion. Watch below…

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Strictly: Amber Davies receives birthday gifts from Nikkita

14:49Amy Denman

Amy Dowden struck with illness

Ahead of the second live show, Amy Dowden revealed she had been struck down with an illness – but will still fance in tonight’s show.

Amy appeared on the spin-off show It Takes Two, where she revealed she had been under the weather, but her partner Thomas Skinner had been supporting her.

As she appeared quieter than usual on the show, host Janette Manrara said: “”Amy, I know you’re a little bit under the weather so excuse Amy today but he made you a beautiful drink to help you out?”

A hoarse Amy replied: “With turmeric, ginger, pepper,” while Janette added: “I won’t make you talk too much.”

However, hours before the live show Amy revealed she still plans to dance tonight. Amy shared a selfie showing her dressed in leopard print pyjamas as she beamed at the camera and crossed her fingers on her Instagram story.

Writing below the image, she said: “It’s show day! Wishing everyone lots of luck!

“One very excited Amy! Tom and I have worked so hard and can’t wait to bring you a party tonight with our salsa and risky lifts!

“Remember tonight the votes online open! One couple sadly leaves the competition!

“Right let’s go have another day doing what I love most! I’m forever grateful for!”

Amy Dowden issued a message to her Strictly Come Dancing co-stars (

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Instagram)

14:45KEY EVENT

How to vote for your favourite Strictly Come Dancing pair

Earlier this week, the BBC show announced a major change to its voting system, which has divided fans.

After years of fans being able to vote by calling a premium-rate telephone number, this has now been scrapped. It has now been announced that Strictly Come Dancing fans will now have to vote online instead.

Viewers will need to register for an online BBC account to vote, which can be done via the BBC website.

Rylan Clark shared an emotional update on his mum (Image: ITV)

Rylan Clark had an emotional update about his mum Linda for fans on Instagram this weekend, as he announced he was “so proud” of his beloved co-star. Linda herself shot to fame starring with Rylan on Celebrity Gogglebox, and soon endeared herself to fans. She’s also appeared with her son on his radio show and on ITV’s This Morning.

This week, Linda was booked to cut the ribbon on a Christmas grotto at her local garden centre, sharing a snap of her alongside a man dressed as Santa and one of the workers. Rylan gushed: “My mum was asked to open the Christmas grotto at our local garden centre where she goes all the time and genuinely I’ve never been more proud xx LOOK AT HER!” along with three love heart emojis.

His A-lister pals couldn’t get enough in the comments section, with Denise Van Outen sharing a heart-eyed emoji as Michelle Visage said: “I LOVE YOU LINDA!! Look at that pride!”

Strictly’s Sarah Hadland posted: “I’m with her – it’s a big moment and also the discounts she can now look forward to!”

Rylan told the Daily Star that he would love to do more TV work with his mum, but she’s simply “not well enough”. Linda has severe Crohn’s disease, which has no cure, and in 2021 was diagnosed with skin cancer.

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He told the publication: “We’ve been offered hundreds of things. We got asked to do a travel show and the chance to go here and go there.

“It would be hilarious, but she’s just not well enough to do it. Gogglebox is enough for us. She feels comfortable doing that show because we’re just sat in my kitchen.”

View 4 Images

Vicky Pattison shared a heartfelt post to Instagram

Vicky Pattison has revealed she nearly said no to Strictly Come Dancing, admitting her battle with nerves and anxiety nearly kept her from joining the BBC show.

The 37-year-old reality TV star, best known for her appearances on Geordie Shore, I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! and Loose Women are currently competing on the hit dance competition and have been paired with professional dancer Kai Widdrington for the 2025 series.

The pair have made a strong start in the competition, impressing judges and viewers at home because of their performances. In week one, they scored an impressive 23 for their cha cha to The Emotions’ Best Of My Love. But despite her stunning performances on screen, Vicky has now opened up about the emotional struggle behind the scenes, taking to Instagram to share just how close she came to turning the opportunity down. She wrote, “I knew before strictly even started I was going to struggle with my nerves and anxiety… so much so, that I almost said no to this incredible opportunity. I almost let my fear stop me from doing something amazing..”

READ MORE: Strictly’s Dianne Buswell dad’s blunt response to Stefan Dennis pairing was cut from interviewREAD MORE: Kim Kardashian channels mum Kris as she debuts stunning new hair after transformation

Vicky opened up about her struggles outside of the show

The star was met with tons of support from fans

“But I absolutely don’t want that nasty little inner critic to dictate my life.. I don’t want it to convince me that I’m not capable of doing brilliant things once in awhile. So I put on my big girl pants and instead I tried to get myself in the best possible place before I started this little journey.

She continued, “I did things for me… that I potentially haven’t done enough of recently. I practiced self care, went back to therapy, allowed myself to feel all my things, fear included… and you know what? I felt better.

“You might not be doing strictly, but we all get the opportunity to do exciting and amazing things in our lives and I just wanted this to be your sign to go for it. Whether it’s the career change, the blind date, the solo trip… Just go for it. Anxiety is our brain trying to convince us that the worst possible outcome is going to be your reality… but it doesn’t have to be.

View 4 Images

Vicky is paired with Kai Widdrington this year

“Whatever happens tomorrow, I’ve tried my best, made loads of lovely new friends and had a ball… and my brain almost convinced me not to do this!.”

She went on to share a positive message with fans, saying, “If any of this resonates with you, please stop getting in your own way… you are brave, brilliant and powerful beyond measure..

“And there’s a whole exciting world of amazing things waiting for you… if you just get out of your comfort zone and go for it once in awhile. We get one life and we all deserve to turn our vision boards into our camera roll..”

Vicky was quickly met with huge support from her followers, as one person dubbed her an “inspirational.”

Another person said, “we’re all very proud of you vicky. you’ve got this, you have all of us rooting for you x.” A third person wrote, “Darling girl you are so brave to bare your soul. But honestly, you have got this and I so look forward to watching you grow as a dancer. Sending lots of love to those little feet.”

It comes as earlier this year, the reality TV star opened up about being diagnosed with Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). The symptoms of PMS include mood swings, feeling depressed, irritable, upset, anxious, or emotional, according to the NHS.

Vicky candidly admitted she struggled for five years with her symptoms being dismissed by doctors before receiving a diagnosis, and she is now an outspoken advocate for women’s health, calling for improved education and support for those with PMDD and other conditions.

Rob Rinder has been met with messages of support after sharing a candid reflection following the synagogue terror attack on Thursday, in which the ITV star admitted “many Jews cannot imagine a future here”.

Mr Rinder, 47, mentioned that his grandfather had survived the Holocaust, and stated the promise of freedom in Britain is now “fading”.

 

Five were injured and two people were killed in the incident, which took place at Heaton Park synagogue in Manchester.

The suspect was later shot dead by officers, with Greater Manchester Police declaring the attack a major incident before it was later deemed terror-related.

Rob Rinder shared a statement following the synagogue attack

 

The attack occurred on Yom Kippur, an important day in the Jewish calendar.

Taking to X, Mr Rinder penned: “On the holiest day of the year, we are attacked at a Manchester synagogue.

“Our children walk to school behind barbed wire protected by guns. Yet some still answer this atrocity with ‘what about…’

“This is my country, the sanctuary my grandfather found after surviving the Holocaust, promising freedom under the rule of law.

“Today I pray for the victims, thank the brave who responded and wonder if that promise is fading. A community this small cannot stand alone. If you believe in Britain (wherever you’re from & whatever your faith) you must stand with us.

“Many Jews cannot imagine a future here and history tells us what follows when that happens.”

The emotional post was met with a flood of support, with one X user responding: “We do a lot of work in Crumpsall. It’s been clear to me that the community there has been living in absolute fear for some time now. Security guards all over the place. They shouldn’t have to live like that at all.”

Another commented: “We do stand with you Rob… Always.”

“It is yet another unspeakable act of violence against the Jewish community of this country. We must do more to protect people and put an end to this violence,” another penned, while someone else added: “This is chilling. My family home where I grew up (and some of my family still live) is a couple of minutes from this synagogue.

Rob Rinder received a flood of support after sharing the statement

“I am beyond horrified to see this news. Our neighbours are all gentle and law abiding mainly Orthodox Jews.

“Lovely families who mixed with our big Irish catholic family in peace. This was planned… Security for the Jewish community has to be stepped up.”

Rob Rinder shared his fears about living in Britain as a Jew

Another shared: “I stand with you. Awful day,” while one more wrote: “Horrific. Thinking of the victims and their families.” (sic)

Rachel Riley and Stacey Solomon also took to their social media accounts in light of the incident to express their upset and outrage.

Amber Davies replaced Dani Dyer after she was forced to pull out last week (Image: BBC / Ray Burmiston)

Following on from last week’s shocking news that Dani Dyer was forced to quit Strictly, she was subsequently replaced by West End star Amber Davies. The Welsh actor made her debut on the series last weekend with her professional partner, Nikita Kuzmin, performing a Waltz routine with less than 48 hours of practice. This Saturday, the pair will be doing a Samba. On joining Strictly Come Dancing, Amber Davies said: “This has been the craziest 24 hours of my life. I’ve watched Strictly with my family since I was younger, and to now be part of the show is a dream come true. I’m going to give it my all, and I am sending Dani well wishes for a speedy recovery. I hope I do her proud.”

But viewers will be forgiven for recognising Amber elsewhere, as she first rose to fame when she was voted the winner of Love Island in 2017. Express Online has taken a deeper dive into her personal life and what she’s been up to since leaving the Love Island villa.

 

Amber Davies has also appeared on Dancing on Ice (Image: Getty)

What does Amber Davies do?

Since winning Love Island, the 29-year-old has pursued a professional acting career, with lead roles in theatre productions including Pretty Woman, 9 to 5: The Musical, and The Great Gatsby. She recently landed the lead role as Elle Woods in Legally Blonde: The Musical, in the new UK and Ireland tour.

On television, she presented the documentary Amber and Dolly: 9 to 5, which saw Amber jet off to Nashville to meet and interview Dolly Parton.

Amber also hosts her own podcast series, Call To Stage, where she speaks to stars from the world of theatre. She also appeared in the CBBC drama series Almost Never and participated in the sixteenth series of Dancing on Ice.

Amber is currently dating Ben Joyce after the pair met in 2022 (Image: Getty)
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Who is Amber dating?

The Welsh actress won Love Island in 2017 with her then-boyfriend Kem, but the pair called it quits a few months after the series ended.

She is currently dating Ben Joyce, and the couple met while working together on the theatre production of Back to the Future back in 2022. Like Amber, Ben is also a Welsh performer.

He recently secured a role in the Amazon Prime Video show The Power and has also starred in productions such as Jersey Boys.

Ben is also a very supportive boyfriend, and after Amber was announced as the latest celebrity on Strictly, he gushed on social media: “Does she ever stop?! No she doesn’t!!”

This was one seriously emotional comeback

Nick Knowles and the DIY SOS team returned last night (October 3), ready transform the lives of school girl Isla Screaton Kilpatrick and her family.

Isla, who turned eight while DIY SOS was filming, suffers from the rare genetic condition, Mandibuloacral Dysplasia.

The condition affects bone growth and causes premature ageing of all the body’s major organs. Isla is the only person living in the UK with unique gene mutation.
 
DIY SOS’s Ashley Edwards with little Isla Screaton Kilpatrick (Credit: BBC)

Isla’s single mum Stacey has even been warned by a doctor her daughter could start suffering from strokes and heart attacks now she is past seven years old.

Stacey was in desperate need of help to make her three-bedroom semi in Aylestone, Leicester, accessible for the youngster. Isla’s room was too small, there was no storage for medication and equipment and, concerningly, the render was flaking off the outside wall and the downpipes were at risk of causing damp.

Cue Nick and his DIY SOS team, who are back on BBC One for the first time in three years.

DIY SOS: Independence For Isla

Nick Knowles and his team of DIY SOS experts – including designer Gaby Blackman, electrician Billy Byrne, gardener Ashley Edwards and plasterer Chris Frediani – visited Isla’s home for the first episode in the new series of the show. And, boy, what an emotional rollercoaster it was.

Isla lives with mum Stacey and her older sister Paige. The family’s home was completely unsuitable for Isla, who weighed just 15lbs (7kg) when she was two years old. She was unable to reach any light switches, door knobs and had to stand on a cardboard box to brush her teeth.

Most importantly, Isla has a tracheotomy in her throat to help her breathe. This means she speaks quietly and cannot shout. As a result, Isla was forced to sleep in Stacey’s bedroom over fears she wouldn’t be heard in an emergency.

Stacey says: “The tracheotomy means I can’t hear her. She’s very quiet. If there is an issue, she can’t shout for me.” She added: “I just want my kids to feel like kids.”

When Nick visited the Screaton Kilpatrick family and told them the DIY SOS team would help, Isla burst into tears. Even Nick looked choked up as he checked: “These are happy tears, aren’t they?!”
 
Nick is back with all the team, including electrician Billy Byrne (Credit: BBC)

Isla’s big DIY SOS build

Nick and the DIY SOS team quickly realised there was not enough space in Stacey’s home to ensure Isla’s needs are met. They drew up new plans and added a timber rear extension to the property. It was to become a swish new lounge.

This meant they could move older sister Paige downstairs into the old lounge and turn upstairs into two big bedrooms. All the rooms were given an extremely stylish makeover, thanks to Gabby, but the adjustments made went beyond Stacey’s expectations.

The family’s made-over house featured plenty of new storage cupboards to house medication and equipment for Isla. The youngster was given an electric, low level bed, a low level ‘grown up’ dining chair – so she didn’t need a baby seat anymore – and even her own low down, retractable kitchen worktop.

An electric sink was fitted in the bathroom, so the height can be adjusted, and a double handrail was added to the stairs.

Most impressively, the DIY SOS team added a secret door between Isla’s new bedroom and Stacey’s new room. Disguised as a children’s bookcase, it means the mother and daughter can have privacy but Stacey is close in the event of an emergency.

DIY SOS: Tears for Isla

We warned it would be an emotional one – and there were plenty of moments for viewers to cry. During the build, plane enthusiast Isla celebrated her eighth birthday. Together with Stacey, Gabby and Billy, Nick took her to a local airfield. Nick then surprise Isla with a flight in a small aircraft.

If you weren’t crying yet, you will have been when the plane flew over the house and the 160 tradesmen and women working on it stood waving in the garden, shouting: “Happy Birthday, Isla!”

Stacey opened up on her struggles as Isla looked at the planes in the hanger with Billy and Gabby. She cried: “The last year was the hardest, as that’s when we found out things were changing. It is something that always runs in the back of your mind. It terrifies me.”

The brave mum added: “My biggest fear is seeing her deteriorating. She’s such a big happy character and that’s what I want her to be always.”

Nick told Stacey she is “doing an extraordinary job”, adding: “Isla is full of joy.”
 
A total of 160 local tradesmen and women turned up to help Isla and her family (Credit: BBC)

Isla’s reaction

It’s fair to say Isla, Stacey and big sister Paige couldn’t believe their eyes when they saw their new house for the first time. All three were left sobbing as they walked through the door and into their new lounge.

Addressing the army of local tradesmen and women outside, Stacey told them: “That in there, is stunning. Watching Isla being able to walk around the house…she looked like a completely different person. She was so independent.”

Stacey added: “You have just achieved everything I wanted to do. Our future now is going to be so much more comfortable.”

DIY SOS viewers react

Viewers watching at home admitted they were reached for the Kleenex minutes into the opening show of the new series.

“With all the hate in the world at the moment, you and your crew remind me that there is good in humanity. I watched it with my two little girls, it’s good to have you all back,” said one. “Absolutely in pieces again – thanks #diysos and @mrnickKnowles for reminding us what happens when communities come together for a common cause – Isla and her family are so deserving!” said a second.

A third added: “So refreshing to see a crowd of people marching down a street filled with love instead of hate. Imagine what this world would be like if we did more of this.”

“Watching #DIYSOS makes me proud to British. We have more in common that unites than divides us,” another posted. “Tonight’s episode had us in bits from 5 minutes in…that amazing little girl, her spirit, her smile, her love for life. Your heart goes out to that family – so much love.”

“Restores your faith in humanity when there’s so much hate in the world,” another concluded.

Read more: Stacey Solomon gives first look as she joins Britain’s Got Talent as guest judge

 

Keir Starmer shuts down calls to stop introduction of Digital ID after 2.7million Britons fight back against plan

Digital ID Support COLLAPSES as Public Rejects ‘Biometric Surveillance State’ | 

Sir Keir Starmer’s Government has shut down calls to stop the introduction of Digital ID after almost 2.8 million Britons signed a petition opposing the Prime Minister’s proposal.

Sir Keir, who confirmed to GB News that the Government is pushing ahead with introducing mandatory Digital ID cards, believes the plan will help stop illegal migrants working in the black economy.

 

The scheme, which would see the UK follow in the footsteps of Estonia, would result in all UK citizens and legal residents being required to hold a free national ID card when aged 16 or over.

Critics immediately warned that Digital ID brings the risk of hacking, with others warning about Britain becoming a “dystopian nightmare”.

A petition against Digital ID quickly gathered more signatures following Sir Keir’s announcement last Friday.

More than 2.7 million Britons signed the petition yesterday, including more than 3,000 in the Prime Minister’s own seat of Holborn & St Pancras.

Polling by More in Common has also shown strong opposition to Digital ID.

After the polling firm found plus 35 per cent net support in June, the figure tumbled to -14 per cent after the Prime Minister’s announcement.

The Government has since made clear that the primary ambition of introducing Digital ID is to tackle illegal migration.

In a response issued on October 2, the Department for Science, Innovation & Technology said: “The Government has announced plans to introduce a Digital ID system which is fit for the needs of modern Britain.

Sir Keir Starmer is planning to push ahead with introducing Digital ID

“We are committed to making people’s everyday lives easier and more secure, to putting more control in their hands (including over their own data), and to driving growth through harnessing digital technology.

“We also want to learn from countries which have digitised Government services for the benefit of their citizens, in line with our manifesto commitment to modernise Government.

“Currently, when UK citizens and residents use public services, start a new job, or, for example, buy alcohol, they often need to present an assortment of physical documents to prove who they are or things about themselves.

“This is both bureaucratic for the individual and creates space for abuse and fraud.

“This includes known issues with illegal working and modern slavery, while the fragmented approach and multiple systems across Government make it difficult for people to access vital services.

“Further, there are too many people who are excluded, like the one-in=10 UK adults who don’t have a physical photo ID, so can struggle to prove who they are and access the products and services they are entitled to.

“To tackle these interlinked issues, we will introduce a new national digital ID.

“This is not a card but a new digital identity that will be available for free to all UK citizens and legal residents aged 16 and over (although we will consider through consultation if this should be age 13 and over).

“Over time, people will be able to use it to seamlessly access a range of public and private sector services, with the aim of making our everyday lives easier and more secure.

“It will not be compulsory to obtain a digital ID but it will be mandatory for some applications.

“For example, the new digital ID will build on GOV.UK One Login and the GOV.UK Wallet to drive the transformation of public services.

“Over time, this system will allow people to access government services – such as benefits or tax records – without needing to remember multiple logins or provide physical documents.

“It will significantly streamline interactions with the state, saving time and reducing frustrating paperwork, while also helping to create opportunities for more joined up government services.

“International examples show how beneficial this can be. For instance, Estonia’s system reportedly saves each citizen hours every month by streamlining unnecessary bureaucracy, and the move to becoming a digital society has saved taxpayer money.

“By the end of this Parliament, employers will have to check the new digital ID when conducting a ‘right to work’ check.

“This will help combat criminal gangs who promise access to the UK labour market in order to profit from dangerous and illegal channel crossings.

“It will create a fairer system between UK citizens and legal residents, crack down on forged documents, and streamline the process for employers, driving up compliance.

“Further, it will create business information showing where employers are conducting checks, so driving more targeted action against non-compliant employers.

“For clarity, it will not be a criminal offence to not hold a digital ID and police will not be able to demand to see a digital ID as part of a “stop and search.”

“Privacy and security will also be central to the digital ID programme. We will follow data protection law and best practice in creating a system which people can rightly put their trust in.

“People in the UK already know and trust digital credentials held in their phone wallets to use in their everyday lives, from paying for things to storing boarding passes.

“The new system will be built on similar technology and be your boarding pass to government. Digitally checkable digital credentials are more secure than physical documents which can be lost, copied or forged, and often mean sharing more information than just what is necessary for a given transaction.

“The new system will be designed in accordance with the highest security standards to protect against a comprehensive range of threats, including cyber-attacks.

“We will launch a public consultation in the coming weeks and work closely with employers, trade unions, civil society groups and other stakeholders, to co-design the scheme and ensure it is as secure and inclusive as possible.

“Following consultation, we will seek to bring forward legislation to underpin this system.”

Matt Goodwin discusses the number of terror 𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘢𝘤𝘬𝘴 committed by migrants 

Yesterday morning’s horrific attack on Jews attending a synagogue in Manchester has sent shockwaves across the nation – and, unsurprisingly, public anger is also growing.

 

Matt Goodwin questioned the number of terror 𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘢𝘤𝘬𝘴 committed by migrants

The alleged attacker – 35-year-old Jihad al-Shamie – entered the UK from Syria as a young child, before being granted British citizenship aged just 16. Many would argue he should never have been here in the first place. And he’s not the only one.

2021 Liverpool 𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘳𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵: Born in Iraq.

2021 Sir David Amess 𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘳𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵: Parents from Somalia.
2020 Reading 𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘳𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵: Born in Libya.
2020 Streatham 𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘳𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵: Parents from Sri Lanka.
2019 London Bridge 𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘳𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵: Parents from Pakistan.

2017 Manchester MEN 𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘳𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵: Libyan parents.
2015 Leytonstone 𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘳𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵: Born in Somalia.
2013 Lee Rigby/Woolwich 𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘳𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵: Parents Nigerian.
2007 London/Glasgow 𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘳𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵s: Iraqi/Indian parents.
2005 supposedly “homegrown” 7/7 𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘳𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵s: Three had parents from Pakistan, while the fourth was born in Jamaica.

We cannot afford to continue ignoring the blindingly obvious pattern here. Why are these people in our country in the first place?

So many of the evil terror 𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘢𝘤𝘬𝘴 we see on British shores are committed by first or second generation migrants – that much is clear. These attackers hate our country, hate what Britain stands for – and the Jewish community are the latest victims.

Who could be next?

Now, the Left would have you believe that anybody can become British, and anybody can become English, the moment they step into this country and get hold of a few papers.

But as the writer Garrett Jones argues in his book The Culture Transplant, what we have been doing in the UK and across the West is importing people from radically different cultures who retain the beliefs, attitudes, and cultural practices from their home countries.

Isn’t this why we also had to deal with the grooming gang scandal in this country – because we imported masses of people from rural Pakistan where clan-based networks and the abuse of people who are non-Muslim is considered acceptable?

Sadly, this is now being compounded by our insane open borders policy. In the last week alone, over 2,000 illegal migrants have crossed the English Channel – more than 800 arrived within 24 hours last Saturday. We don’t know who they are. We don’t know where they’re from. And we don’t know what they believe. Why is the government doing this to their own people?

Almost every 𝘵𝘦𝘳𝘳𝘰𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵 attack now is a reminder of the fact that we have been importing people who hate who we are and cling to totally different cultures, identities, and outlooks – all of which is making our own culture, identity, and social cohesion harder to maintain.

We can either keep ignoring this awkward reality, or we can do something about it – which would mean radically reshaping our country and its future around people who have deep roots and ties to this country, are genuinely integrating, calling time on mass immigration, doing whatever is required to fix our borders, and launching an all-out assault on Islamism in our society.

I’ve had enough of all this – haven’t you?

Sources say the terrorist Jihad Al-Shamie was on police bail for an alleged ɾɑρε when he carried out the Manchester synagogue 𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘢𝘤𝘬. The 𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘢𝘤𝘬er responsible for the sᴋɪʟʟɪɴɢss has been named as Jihad Al-Shamie. Tonight, counter-terrorism police confirm they believe he may have been influenced by extreme Islamist ideology.

The 35-year-old British citizen of Syrian descent was shot dead seven minutes after police were called to the scene. He came to the UK as a young child and was granted British citizenship in 2006 as a minor.

Patrick Christys says the local community in Manchester heckling David Lammy was inevitabl

GB News can also exclusively reveal this evening that the father of the 𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘢𝘤𝘬er, Faraj Al-Shamie, has described Israel as a “terrorist state” on his Facebook profile, where he has regularly posted about the civil war in Syria and the Israel-Hamas war.

Mr. Al-Shamie said in a post on October 7th that the 𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘢𝘤𝘬 by Hamas had “proved beyond a shadow of a doubt” that Israel would “not remain.” Posts by Al-Shamie were made on the same account where he also shared a statement in which he and the Al-Shamie family in Britain and abroad expressed “profound shock” and strongly condemned the synagogue terrorist 𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘢𝘤𝘬 carried out by his son Jihad, who rammed his car into worshippers and stabbed congregants on Yom Kippur.

Meanwhile, it has been reported that counter-terrorism police are investigating whether the 𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘢𝘤𝘬er sent 𝘥𝘦𝘢𝘵𝘩 threats to an MP for his stance on Israel.

Former Tory MP John Howell received a barrage of threatening emails in 2012 – one of which was from a “Jihad Al-Shamie.”

Today, the Labour Party came into contact with reality.

David Lammy was heckled. Manchester’s Jewish community shouted: “Shame on you! Go to Palestine! You’ve enabled this!” Then he attempted to speak, calling the local Jewish community his “friends” and insisting that “we mustn’t be divided.”

But on the scene of this shameful terror 𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘢𝘤𝘬 against Jews – an 𝘢𝘵𝘵𝘢𝘤𝘬 that comes after a tidal wave of antisemitism ignored by his party – he couldn’t even speak from the heart. He read a pre-prepared speech, written by somebody else, from a piece of paper.

Pathetic. David Lammy got the reaction he deserved.

He was an incompetent foreign secretary who nominated Jeremy Corbyn for Labour leadership, hasn’t done nearly enough to stop the outrageous Jew-hatred we’ve seen across Britain, and in my view emboldened it further by banning arms sales to Israel.

Whilst David Lammy was foreign secretary, Downing Street even implied Israeli leader Benjamin Netanyahu would face arrest if he came to Britain.

Sir Keir Starmer, meanwhile, is sticking to pre-prepared statements, taking no questions. He’s probably trying to avoid what happened the last time he interacted with the public – after Southport, in Doncaster, at the races, or even at England football matches, where he was openly booed.

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood says she is “disappointed” protestors have not stepped back. But that’s hardly surprising – she herself has attended pro-Palestine marches.

People are angry. Tony Blair’s Labour government gave a Syrian jihadi, named Jihad, a British passport in 2006. He was reportedly on bail for ɾɑρε.

In my view, Labour has fanned the flames of Jew-hatred in this country. When David Lammy was booed, he got exactly what he deserved.