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Arsenal vs Ipswich preview: Free betting tips, odds and predictions

Betting preview: Arsenal vs. Ipswich, Premier League.
THE SUN

ARSENAL will look to secure back-to-back Premier League wins when Ipswich Town arrive at the Emirates Stadium on Friday.

SunSport betting experts have previewed the contest and selected the best bets, tips and exclusive sign-up bonuses from our leading betting partners.

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Arsenal vs Ipswich preview

In-form Arsenal welcome wobbling Ipswich Town to the Emirates for Friday’s Premier League showdown.

And Mikel Arteta’s side will be confident of securing maximum points following successive victories over Crystal Palace, scoring eight goals in the space of four days.

The Gunners are now unbeaten in their last ten matches in all competitions (W7, D3) and boast a formidable home record with eight wins and no losses from their 10 competitive matches – including six clean sheets.

Arsenal are back to being 3/1 second-favourites for the title ahead of Chelsea following their goalless draw at Everton, but every game is now must-win with Liverpool six points ahead of them having played a game less.

It will be a daunting trip for struggling Ipswich Town, especially now that Arsenal clicked back into gear offensively.

The Gunners have scored 5+ goals in six different away games in all competitions in 2024, the most ever by an English top-flight club in a single calendar year.

Ipswich, meanwhile, appear to be heading in the opposite direction following Saturday’s 4-0 thumping to Newcastle at Portman Road.

Still the only side in the Premier League without a home win, The Tractor Boys are stranded in 18th position with four losses in their last five matches.

A crumb of comfort for Kieran McKenna’s side is that Arsenal talisman Bukayo Saka looks set for a spell on the sidelines, although they still managed four of their last seven goals without him on the pitch.


Arsenal vs Ipswich preview betting odds

Odds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.


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Arsenal vs Ipswich preview betting tips and predictions

Goals to flow

Arsenal should be capable of scoring a handful when Ipswich Town visit. As mentioned, the Gunners are back in the goalscoring groove – especially at home where they’ve netted 2+ goals in 10 of their 13 competitive games.

Only Brentford and Tottenham can better Arsenal’s tally of 17 top-flight goals at home, while only Leicester have conceded more than Ipswich Town on their travels (16). McKenna’s side have also shipped 4+ goals away own three occasions this season.

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Arsenal vs Ipswich

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Assist

Declan Rice looks an interesting price at 19/5 to provide an assist against Ipswich Town. The England international, 25, has provided five assists in 21 appearances this season with his latest arriving against Crystal Palace over the weekend.

Rice, who has taken 48 league corners this season, may well take set-pieces from the other side with Bukayo Saka absent. He’s also created 24 chances for his colleagues in 15 appearances with Saka Arsenal’s only player to have created more – including Martin Odegaard.

Rice has the 13th highest xA (expected assists) of any player in the Premier League.

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Remember to gamble responsibly

A responsible gambler is someone who:

  • Establishes time and monetary limits before playing
  • Only gambles with money they can afford to lose
  • Never chase their losses
  • Doesn’t gamble if they’re upset, angry, or depressed
  • Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
  • Gamble Aware – www.gambleaware.org

Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk

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Arsenal vs Ipswich Town: Get £50 in free bets for Premier League clash with Betfred

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Remember to gamble responsibly

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  • Gamcare – www.gamcare.org.uk
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Find our detailed guide on responsible gambling practices here.

For help with a gambling problem, call the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133 or go to www.gamstop.co.uk


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World Darts Championship LIVE RESULTS: Round three fixtures, Luke Littler issues sincere apology – updates

THE World Darts Championship has reached its Christmas break – and the first nine days have been packed with incredible drama.

A RECORD number of seeds have been knocked out in the first two rounds – Dave Chisnall and Rob Cross making it 14 overall with the likes of Gary Anderson and Michael Smith also among those already out.

Elsewhere, Luke Littler has issued a deep apology for denying a fan the chance to earn £60k having failed to hit a nine-darter during his thrilling opening match against Ryan Meikle.

But hopefully, the teen sensation can do it in round 3 which returns on Friday, December 27.

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Full list of shops closing down so far in 2025 revealed – including Co Op and WHSmith

IT has been a tough few years for high streets across the UK, with many retailers pulling the shutters down on sites and more likely to follow in 2025.

Shoppers have faced a swathe of closures on their local high streets in recent years as many favourite chains have closed branches.

A man putting up a closed sign on a store window.
Getty
The high street is facing further store closures in 2025[/caption]

High street shops have seen lower footfall and less money landing in the tills as a result of the cost-of-living crisis.

People have naturally cut back on retail therapy as they have found they have less cash in their back pockets.

The decline in spending along with high rents and costs, have already forced many chains to pursue restructuring plans and close locations.

Figures from the Centre for Retail Research revealed almost 10,500 UK shops closed for the final time in 2023.

The 12-month period also saw more than 119,000 jobs lost across the sector.

According to the centre’s data 2024 had already seen 8,543 stores closed by mid-November and more than 130,000 retail jobs lost.

And, several retailers have warned that October’s budget, which saw employer National Insurance contributions increased, will lead them to increase prices and possibly reduce their outlet count.

The start of 2025 will be no different with WHSmith, Monki and Millets all planning closures.

Others are also likely to evaluate their estates following the crucial Christmas period and ahead of the implementation of those budget measures.

Of course, it’s not all bad news. In some cases branches will be replaced with bigger and better shops.

Retailers regularly open and close shops for a number of reasons – not just because they are struggling.

For example, they may have a store nearby that is performing better or it may be because they want to pick a spot that has higher footfall, such as in a retail park.

Here are all the shops we know are shutting next year so far…

WHSmith

Stationery retailer WHSmith will close its Winton branch in Bournemouth, Dorset, in 2025.

The shop will close for good on February 15.

It comes after the retailer closed its Boscombe branch in the same town in June 2024.

WHSmith has shuttered 10 stores since March 2023, including sites in Manchester and Bicester.

The closures also included branches in Somerset and Sale, which closed in September.

Despite these latest closures WHSmith has 1,400 UK stores and is on the expansion trail.

It had announced plans to open 110 new shops in 2024 in airports, railway stations and hospitals.

More than 50 of them were in the US and 15 in the UK. The retailer also opened a series of Toys R Us concessions in its UK stores.

While still expanding, WHSmith had announced plans to cut costs of up to £10million, following a 4% drop in sales.

Monki

H&M-owned fashion chain Monki has announced plans to close its seven UK stores next year.

Those earmarked for closure include a site on London‘s Carnaby Street and Manchester‘s Arandale Centre.

H&M has said it will close Monki stores or merge them with another of its fashion brands, Weekday.

The Scandinavian retail giant wants to blend the two brands together to make a one-stop shop that appeals to young shoppers.

H&M has not yet confirmed exactly when the stores will shut for good.

The Entertainer

Toy giant The Entertainer has confirmed plans to close its outlet at the Cameron Toll shopping centre in Edinburgh on January 4 2025.

It will mark the end of a decade-long run for the shop, which opened in 2014.

No reason has been given for the closure, but boss Andrew Murphy  said October’s Budget would impact the firm’s finances.

He said the government’s decision to increase employer’s National Insurance contributions had forced the group to abandon plans to open two new stores.

Stores opening in 2025

Loungers

Restaurant chain Loungers is adding seven new Lounge sites to its portfolio of 277 restaurants across the UK over the next few months. The group is continuing its rapid expansion as it looks to secure its sale to Fortress Investment Group.

Primark

Primark will continue to expand its UK estate with 2025 openings planned for Parkway, Newbury and Epsom.

The retailer has been expanding rapidly with a number of openings in 2024.

Holland and Barrett

Holland and Barrett has announced plans to open 50 stores in 2025. the expansion is expected to include standalone stores and instore concessions.

Co-op

Central Co-op is offloading 19 food stores in various locations across middle England.

Three of the food stores will reopen as B&M branches, while the remaining 16 are being sold to Samy Limited.

Independent convenience chain Samy currently runs 32 Budgens, Spar, Londis and Premier stores across the UK.

Central Co-op said the 19 branches had been “financially unsustainable for some time”.

All 19 shops will be shut wit by the end of May 2025.

Despite the closures, Central Co-op opened five new food stores in 2024 and refurbished a further 35.

Millets

Millets is set to close six stores and has launched huge closing down sales at the branches.

All the affected stores are expected to close their doors early in 2025.

Four of the locations will be reopened and rebranded as Go Outdoors sites, a sister brand to Millets.

These include sites in Lowestoft, Douglas, York and Grimsby.

A further Millets site in Burgess Hill, West Sussex, will not be rebranded and is set to close permanently in January.

JD Outdoors, the owner of Millets, appears to be prioritising the expansion of its sister brand Go Outdoors.

There are now 96 Go Outdoors sites across the county.

Homebase

Four Homebase stores in Derry/Londonderry, Inverurie, Omagh and Fife are expected to close in the new year.

The retailer closed six sites in December, with all 10 having been acquired by Sainsbury’s to be converted to supermarkets.

A further 70 Homebase stores were saved after being purchased by the owner of The Range, when the retailer fell into administration.

Homebase had been owned by Hilco Capital, which had closed 93 stores since its takeover in 2018.

Hilco bought the hardware store chain for £1 from Australian firm Wesfarmers, which had paid £340million for the brand.

Why are retailers closing stores?

RETAILERS have been feeling the squeeze since the pandemic, while shoppers are cutting back on spending due to the soaring cost of living crisis.

High energy costs and a move to shopping online after the pandemic are also taking a toll, and many high street shops have struggled to keep going.

The high street has seen a whole raft of closures over the past year, and more are coming.

The number of jobs lost in British retail dropped last year, but 120,000 people still lost their employment, figures have suggested.

Figures from the Centre for Retail Research revealed that 10,494 shops closed for the last time during 2023, and 119,405 jobs were lost in the sector.

It was fewer shops than had been lost for several years, and a reduction from 151,641 jobs lost in 2022.

The centre’s director, Professor Joshua Bamfield, said the improvement is “less bad” than good.

Although there were some big-name losses from the high street, including Wilko, many large companies had already gone bust before 2022, the centre said, such as Topshop owner Arcadia, Jessops and Debenhams.

“The cost-of-living crisis, inflation and increases in interest rates have led many consumers to tighten their belts, reducing retail spend,” Prof Bamfield said.

“Retailers themselves have suffered increasing energy and occupancy costs, staff shortages and falling demand that have made rebuilding profits after extensive store closures during the pandemic exceptionally difficult.”

Alongside Wilko, which employed around 12,000 people when it collapsed, 2023’s biggest failures included Paperchase, Cath Kidston, Planet Organic and Tile Giant.

The Centre for Retail Research said most stores were closed because companies were trying to reorganise and cut costs rather than the business failing.

However, experts have warned there will likely be more failures this year as consumers keep their belts tight and borrowing costs soar for businesses.

The Body Shop and Ted Baker are the biggest names to have already collapsed into administration this year.

Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing money-sm@news.co.uk.

Plus, you can join our Sun Money Chats and Tips Facebook group to share your tips and stories

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The 8 signs your loved one is a borderline alcoholic – from Jekyll and Hyde traits to sneaky ‘errands’

IT’S not just your nan that can go overboard on the sherry at this time of year. 

We can all end up having one too many Baileys or find we’ve polished off a whole bottle of Prosecco without realising… 

Collage illustrating the dangers of excessive holiday drinking: alcohol bottles, a beer mug decorated for Christmas, a calendar with many days crossed out, a woman with a leg injury, and a man refusing a drink.

For those with a drink problem though, the party doesn’t end on New Year – even if the fun stopped a while ago. 

If that’s the case with one of your loved ones, it’s easy to stick your head in the sand and just write their behaviour off over the festive period.

After all, isn’t it normal to have one too many drinks at the work do and embarrass yourself? 

Elizabeth Walker – a professional recovery coach who goes by @theempowermentwarrior – says the difference is knowing when to stop.

She says: “People without a problem with alcohol are usually aware of their limits and know when it’s a good idea to switch to soft drinks or stop altogether.

“If you are noticing that someone is unable to stop drinking once they have started, and just one drink can start the compulsion to drink that doesn’t stop until they have drunk the last drink in the room, this is a real red flag that their relationship with alcohol is unhealthy.”

Debbie Longsdale, therapy director at The Priory who specialises in addictions, says the ‘fun’ can go too far.

“When things feel compromised or uncomfortable, things can no longer be fun – for everyone,” she adds.

“Alcohol can blur people’s ability to be sensitive to the needs of others.

“Those with an alcohol addiction can also get into situations that can be dangerous – like getting in a car, or doing ‘dares’ or challenges while under the influence.”

It can seem a bit Scrooge to monitor someone’s drinking at this time of year.

But if you’re worried someone you love might be a borderline alcoholic, here are the signs to watch out for…

1. Alcohol has become a major priority

“It seems that alcohol has become more important in their lives than anything else, even you,” says Elizabeth.

Work, family, friends and even personal hygiene can end up coming second to drink. 

2. They ‘need’ a drink almost every day

“You are noticing they are needing to drink every day and maybe even needing a ‘hair of the dog’ in the morning to settle the stomach, nerves or to stop the shaky hands,” says Elizabeth.

“Not every ‘alcoholic’ is a daily drinker though.

“Maybe they are able to go without drinking during the week, but once the bottle of wine is open on Friday evening, this starts a weekend of continuous or excessive drinking.”

White wine being poured into a glass.
Not every alcoholic drinks every day, experts say
Shutterstock

3. One drink is never enough

“They aren’t able to have just one glass of wine with dinner or one beer at the bar, but seem to ‘have’ to continue drinking, even when they have said that they will only be having the one,” says Elizabeth.

4. Their drinking patterns have changed over time

“Their drinking patterns have changed, perhaps gradually increasing over the years,” flags Elizabeth.

“They will promise or declare they are going to do Dry January, Stoptober or stop completely, only to give up prematurely and/or return to their old habits and patterns.”

5. They’re irritable if they haven’t had a drink

“Things to look out for are irritability during the hours when they aren’t drinking and then become instantly relaxed when they are able to have a drink,” warns Elizabeth. 

“It may feel a bit like you are living with a Jekyll and Hyde character that changes throughout the day.”

Eight signs of a drinking problem: alcohol prioritization, irritability, unexplained injuries, changing drinking patterns, daily alcohol need, needing excuses to drink, one drink never being enough, and secrecy around alcohol.

6. They have blackouts and unexplained injuries

“They regularly drink to the point where they pass out, forget what they have done the night before or become physically sick,” says Elizabeth.

They may also end up with bumps, bruises and minor injuries they can’t remember getting.

7. They act secretively around booze

“Over the holiday period you may notice that they are finding reasons to drink more than you would expect,” says Elizabeth. 

“Maybe they are starting to lie about not having had a drink or you are noticing them behaving secretively.

“For example, finding reasons to go out to the shop for groceries when it’s not needed, being out longer than they have said when nipping out on an errand.”

8. They’ll come up with a range of excuses for their drinking – especially at Christmas

“There is nothing more creative and manipulative than someone who has become dependent upon alcohol when it comes to finding a way or reason to drink,” warns Elizabeth.

“They may not want to go to family celebrations, especially if they are required to drive. 

“They may start arguments as a way of being able to leave the house or avoid being around other people.  

“They may insist that the festivities happen at their house as it means they are in control of the speed and volume of their drinking, without it being ‘noticed’ or commented on by others.”

How can you help them?

It’s all about picking your moment and making it clear that you are there for them. 

“Although this time of year can bring a person’s problem with alcohol to light, Christmas may not be the best time to talk to your loved one about their drinking,” says Elizabeth, who recommends trying in the New Year, when things have calmed down. 

Dr Renju Joseph, consultant psychiatrist at Priory Hospital Woodbourne and Priory Wellbeing Centre in Birmingham, says: “Broaching the issue of excessive alcohol consumption with a friend or relative is never going to be easy, but it may just help transform their life for the better. 

“I’d advise approaching people with empathy and concern, and expressing what you have observed without judgement.

“Offer support and let them know you’re there to help, and allow them to share their thoughts and feelings without interruption, even if you don’t agree or understand.

“If they are prepared to accept they have a problem, you can help them down the path to getting the professional help they need.”

How much is it safe to drink weekly?

Research shows that drinking regularly and too much can damage your health.

It used to be said that moderate drinking was good for the heart – but newer studies suggest otherwise, linking the habit to a higher risk of several diseases, including heart disease, liver disease and cancer.

To keep health risks from alcohol to a low level:

  • Men and women are advised not to drink more than 14 units a week on a regular basis
  • Spread your drinking over three or more days if you regularly drink as much as 14 units a week
  • If you want to cut down, try to have several drink-free days each week

But it’s important to note that there’s no “safe” amount you can drink each week – 14 units and under is considered “low risk” drinking.

Not sure how much 14 units is?

A shot of spirits – like gin, vodka or whisky – is about one unit, while a standard glass of wine is just over two, according to the NHS.

Meanwhile, a pint of low strength lager, beer or cider is also two units.

Source: NHS

Elizabeth adds: “It is worth remembering that alcohol isn’t the problem, it is their solution to a problem.  

“There is something they want to numb or escape from; it could be pain from the past, a sense of discomfort with themselves or a dissatisfaction with something in the present. 

“No matter what it is, alcohol has been their crutch and to help them come to terms with the idea of living without it, they are going to need support to help them find an alternative, healthier solution.”

Do not try to hide their problems, especially in front of friends or family

Dr Renju JosephConsultant psychiatrist

Visit the NHS website for advice and tips for cutting down, and there are also support groups like Alcoholics Anonymous and charities like Drink Aware and Alcohol Change UK that can offer professional support. 

If your loved one is a heavy drinker or has been drinking excessively for some time, encourage them to speak to their GP

Elizabeth says: “It is important to gain medical advice as stopping cold turkey can be dangerous.”

On a practical level, make sure there are decent non-alcoholic drinks available if you’re hosting or going out, and help make it easier for anyone to not drink if they don’t want to. 

Don’t be that person at a party, grilling someone on why they’re skipping alcohol!

Take care of yourself too

It can be really difficult and emotionally draining, watching your loved one struggling with drink.

Elizabeth says: “What you need more than anything else is somewhere you can be honest without feeling judged, somewhere you can receive the support that will help you keep yourself strong and emotionally healthy.”

Al-Anon for instance is for people who are affected by someone else’s drinking – it doesn’t have to be a family member. 

Renju adds: “Do not try to hide their problems, especially in front of friends or family. 

“This is particularly important if, for example, they try to drive. 

“This can be tough for those who are very close to the person in question, but be strong.

“And don’t take blame. Please don’t feel guilty, accept that this is an illness, and timely interventions would help.”

How to cut back on drinking

If you're concerned about your drinking, a good first step is to see a GP

They’ll be able to give advice and support on how to manage your drinking habits and cut back safely.

This might involve counselling, medicines or detox services.

Being dependent on alcohol means you feel you’re not able to function without it and means stopping drinking can cause physical withdrawal symptoms like shaking, sweating or nausea.

If you have these symptoms when you don’t drink, it could be dangerous to stop drinking too quickly without proper support.

There are many charities and support groups you can join or speak to, as well as helplines:

Tips to quit

When you’re ready to stop, the following tips and techniques can make it that little bit easier.

  1. Tell family and friends that you’re aiming to stop drinking alcohol and explain why – reminding yourself and the people close to you why you want to stop drinking can help keep you on track, and may even encourage someone else to give up or cut down with you.
  2. Identify triggers and avoid situations where you may be tempted to drink, at least in the early stages – from after work pub quizzes to boozy dinners.
  3. Keep busy in the times you’d usually drink by trying something new – get active or meet a friend at the cinema.
  4. Reward yourself as you make progress and don’t be too hard on yourself if you slip up every once in a while – it can be helpful to give yourself short-term goals.
  5. Notice how your body feels without booze – you might find that you have more energy, are sleeping better or have lost weight.

Source: Drinkaware

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Vernon Kay reveals daughters have BANNED him from festive tradition as he shares rare insight into family life

VERNON Kay has revealed how his daughters have banned him from a festive tradition.

The 50-year-old TV presenter has two daughters with wife Tess Daly; Phoebe, 20, and Amber, 15.

Tess Daly, Vernon Kay, and their two daughters.
Tess Daly/Instagram
Vernon Kay has revealed his daughters have banned him from a festive tradition[/caption]
Tess Daly and Vernon Kay on a beach vacation.
Instagram/@tessdaly
Vernon and wife Tess Daly have two daughters together; Phoebe, 20 and Amber, 15[/caption]
Phoebe and Vernon Kay at the Hyde Park Winter Wonderland VIP Launch Night.
Splash
Vernon says his daughters don’t want him to buy fireworks to do a display on New Year’s Eve as he spends too much on them[/caption]

The family keep their home life relatively private, only sharing the odd glimpse into holidays and special moments on their social media.

But now Vernon has revealed a little more about their festive plans, and the tradition that his offspring have banned him from participating in.

Vernon, who is currently starring in panto in Wycombe, said: “We finish early [on New Year’s Eve] so then it’ll be back home with the family, with the girls, Mum and Dad, and my mother-in-law.

“If I’m allowed fireworks, I’ll have some fireworks. But I think, as it stands, fireworks have been banned by my daughters because I spend too much money.”

He added: “I’ll be honest with you, I do like a firework display. I’m like a child!”

It’s no wonder Vernon is keen to splash a bit of cash on a stunning display for his family to ring in 2025, considering the hefty fee he has been paid for starring in the leading role of Aladdin at Wycombe’s Swan Theatre.

Earlier this month, The Sun exclusively revealed Vernon – alongside BBC Radio 2 colleague Scott Mills – was the highest paid male celeb on panto scene this year.

Both DJs are pulling in around £190,000 for their run of shows this winter.

But they didn’t come out on top of the list, as that honour goes to This Morning‘s Alison Hammond.

Alison, 49, is currently in the middle of a 65-show run at Birmingham’s Hippodrome playing the Magical Mermaid in Peter Pan.

And she is said to be earning around £3,000 per show — bringing her total earnings for the run to £195,000.

They dethrone panto legend Christopher Biggins who was previously touted as the highest paid celeb in panto for years.

He is thought to be getting £180,000 for his role as the Spirit of Dreams in Sleeping Beauty in Woking, Surrey.

Britain’s Got Talent winner Sydnie Christmas is also jumping on the panto cash train with an £80,000 stint as Fairy Christmas in Sleeping Beauty in Dartford, Kent.

And reality TV stars Katie Price and Kerry Katona are both earning £50,000 for their Ugly Sister roles in Cinderella in Northwich, Cheshire.

Vernon Kay as Aladdin at the Wycombe Swan.
Vernon is currently starring in panto in Wycombe

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The ‘once-hairiest man on TV’ shows off amazing transformation as presenter reveals progress of his hair transplant

FORMER Sky Sports host Richard Keys has shown off his incredible transformation thanks to a HAIR TRANSPLANT.

And it will suit his self-proclaimed moniker of the ‘once-hairiest man on TV’.

Richard Keys 5 months post-hair transplant.
Former Sky Sports host Richard Keys showed off the ‘before’ shot of his head
instagram @richardkeysofficial
Richard Keys after a hair transplant.
This is the journey Keys, who was sacked by Sky, is on
instagram @richardkeysofficial

The British Hair Clinic in Essex uploaded a clip of the now-BeIN presenter showing off his locks on TikTok.

Pointing at his re-growth, Keys, who married his daughter’s best friend after leaving his wife for her, says: “The once-hairiest man on TV has done a little bit today to restore his reputation.

 “I’m laughing because I’ve heard the joke.

“What an irony that someone who spent his lifetime trying to remove hair finds himself in the British Hair Clinic looking for them to add hair. I mean, you couldn’t make it up really.

“But here we are, at the direction of Jason McAteer, who’s been through this process and looks well for it – at least that’s what he told me – and Sam Matterface, a very good friend of mine.

“Sam, I spoke to this morning, and he said: “Brilliant, easy, you’ll love it.”

Later in the clip Keys, who was sacked by Sky Sports for his part in a sexism storm, admires a pen-drawn hairline guide, saying: “So that’s the new hairline.

“That’s where the new hairline will be.”

In 2012 rumours did the rounds that Keys had his hands lasered or waxed after being dubbed ‘werewolf’ by eagle-eyed fans.

A source told The Standard at the time: “Richard is incredibly touchy about his body hair and has put up with years of stick about it.

“Richard won’t divulge whether it was his idea or Sky’s to get his hands done.”

Keys was sacked in disgrace from his £500,000-a-year job fronting Sky’s Premier League coverage in 2011 after making disparaging remarks about female referee Sian Massey-Ellis.

He is now the face of the BeIN Sports channels which broadcast all 365 Premier League games per season mainly on its flagship “Super Saturday” programme.

The clinic added: “Richard came in to our Essex clinic back in July and his new hair line is starting to take shape.

“We will keep you updated on the progression.”

Richard Keys on television.
Fans were quick to spot Keys’ hands back in the day…
Andy Gray and Richard Keys, former Sky Sports presenters.
PA:Press Association
A recording caught out Keys and Andy Gray, left, making vile comments[/caption]
Richard Keys speaking on camera.
X / beINSPORTS_EN
Keys now works for BeIN Sports 14 years after he was sacked by Sky[/caption]

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Gavin and Stacey: The Finale wins Christmas Day ratings battle with 12.5 MILLION viewers

THE Christmas Day ratings battle was won by Gavin and Stacey: The Finale – with 12.5million viewers and climbing.

Part two of the 2019 BBC special was must-watch telly last night.

The cast of Gavin & Stacey: The Finale.
Gavin and Stacey: The Finale was watched by more than 12 million people
BBC

It spelled the end of Ruth Jones and James Corden‘s series for ever – 17 years after it was first created.

At the end of the day, when all’s said and done, it delivered an unforgettable final episode.

Fans broke down in tears as Nessa and Smithy finally said: “I do” after a shock twist.

Meanwhile Stacey and Jason’s mum Gwen found love with Nessa’s ex, Dave Coaches.

And viewers were on tenterhooks waiting to hear the truth behind Uncle Bryn and Jason’s fabled fishing trip – but the story remains untold.

The one-off episode, which aired at 9pm, has been confirmed as the final instalment of Gavin & Stacey, which first screened in May 2007, after three series and three Christmas specials.

It was a big day for the BBC, with the return of Wallace & Gromit after 14 years bringing in 10m for Vengeance Most Fowl.

And it was a huge Christmas for EastEnders – with an astonishing 8.7m watching Cindy Beale clobbered with a shovel and left for dead. 

Just 2.8m tuned in to watch Gail Platt’s goodbye on Coronation Street

Meanwhile some 5.1m watched The King’s Speech, and 6.9m sat down for the Call The Midwife Christmas Special. 

Christmas Day TV ratings

THE best on the box:

  • Gavin & Stacey 12.5m
  • Wallace & Gromit 10m
  • EastEnders 8.7m
  • Call The Midwife 6.9m
  • The King 5.1m
  • Doctor Who 5m  
  • Strictly 4.6m 
  • EastEnders 4.2m
  • Tiddler 3.9m 
  • The Weakest Link 3.9m

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What your Greggs order says about you & it’s good news if you love a steak bake

YOU’LL be hard pressed to find a Brit who doesn’t like Greggs, but their flaky pastries are more than a tasty treat – they can reveal your whole personality. 

Psychologist Jo Hemmings has dug deep into our order history to uncover just what your favourite Greggs snack says about you…

a woman holding a bag that says greggs on it
Alamy
From sausage roll to sweet doughnuts, your snack says more about you than you think[/caption]

Sausage roll

This staple snack is a classic choice, and so are you. You’re a salt of the earth kind of person and know exactly what you want. 

Jo says: “You are confident, decisive and proud of being a traditionalist. Loyal and caring, you’re a good friend who is there to support other people when they can’t make the sort of firm and clear decisions that come so easily to you.”

a white plate with a pastry on it
Steve Bell
Sausage roll lovers are the salt of the earth and great friends to be around[/caption]

Vegan sausage roll

Being in with the in-crowd is the last thing on this alternative snacker’s mind. 

Jo says: “You move with the times, but you’re not prepared to be taken advantage of. Self-assured and living life as healthily as you can, you don’t need to be showy about your choice of food, or go ‘artisan’ -you’re unassuming, modest and kind-hearted.”

two pastries on a bag that says greggs on it
Alamy
No one takes advantage of the vegan sausage roll selector[/caption]

Pepperoni pizza slice

Spice up your life – that’s a pepperoni-lover’s motto. You’re an energetic soul who’ll never turn down a good time. 

Jo says: “The combo of meat, cheese and bread is a staple in your life. But you also like to shake things up a bit. Spicy and hot is how you like to live, you’re the sociable one and the first to say ‘yes’ to a party invite.”

a slice of pepperoni pizza next to a laptop
It’s always party time if you’re a pepperoni pizza picker

Steak bake

Friends flock to a steak bake lover when they’re in need of a bear hug. Your thick skin and warm heart makes you the most popular member of the flock. 

Jo says: “Warm-hearted and positive in your outlook on life, you’re always on the go. Food needs to fill you up fast and feel satisfying, so you can get on with everything else in life. You’re the leader of the pack and the glue that holds your group together.”

a pastry is sitting on a bag that says greggs
Louis Wood
Everyone comes to a steak bake chooser for a big warm bear hug[/caption]

Sausage, bean & cheese melt

Wild and wacky, you live life to the fullest and fill a room with laughter – but your free spirit can make you forgetful. 

Jo says: “An eccentric, scatty type, you always have multiple projects on the go. You are fearless in your everyday life and what might feel daunting to other people, feels exciting to you. An eternal optimist, nothing wears you down and you’re a friend everyone depends on to set them back on a happy track.”

a sandwich is cut in half on a cutting board with a bag that says greg on it
You’re a silly sausage if you choose this melt

Doughnut

A proper sweetie, you sprinkle your love far and wide for anyone who needs it. 

Jo says: “Not someone who likes too much of an unexpected surprise, you prefer to know what life holds in store for you and avoid too much change. You have that predictable soft centre and act as a listening ear for friends in need. You’re quietly confident, but if pals can lure you out of your comfort zone, you actually have a good time.”

a donut with a bite taken out of it is sitting on a napkin on a table .
Greggs
A big softie at heart, you’re a listening ear for all your friends[/caption]

Yum-yum

There’s a lot of layers to a yum-yum lover and only the closest friends will unwrap you to the core.

Jo says: “You’re a super cuddly, maternal type who everyone leans on in a crisis. A nurturer and a carer, you also have a streak of extroversion and wildness. Only your closest pals know that you’re a party animal underneath that sweet nature of yours.”

a close up of a glazed donut on a white surface
Dan Charity - The Sun
Yum-yum lovers have loads of layers to their character[/caption]

Belgian bun

People might think you’re a sickly sweet angel but dig beyond your thick iced exterior and there’s a cheeky devil just waiting to have a good time. 

Jo says: “The cherry on top of every good party, you’re the icing who holds together your friends and family and always has nuggets of advice in sticky situations. You can be naughty – fruity even – under that grown up, sophisticated exterior of yours.” 

a cinnamon roll with a cherry on top sits on a napkin next to a cup of greggs coffee
If you pick a belgian bun, you’re the cherry on top of every event
Handout

Milk chocolate cookie

You’re far beyond your childhood years but there’s one thing folks know about you: you’ll never grow up.

Jo says: “You’re playful, a little bit naughty and it doesn’t take much to bring out the childish side of you. You like nothing more than to be in your own company, but you’re not a loner. You like to have challenging people around you, as you get easily bored.”

a close up of a chocolate chip cookie on a white background
Chocolate chip cookie choosers are kids at heart

Triple chocolate muffin

Some might say you’re too clingy and share stodgy stories everyone’s heard before. But it’s not all bad news – you’re an unforgettable character who really sticks with people you meet.

Jo says: “Generous with your time and your care, you have a wide circle of friends but only a few are close to you. More is more in your eyes, and you’re attracted to people who are honest and trustworthy. You don’t appreciate people who pretend to be someone they’re not.”

a close up of a chocolate muffin on a white background
Pick a muffin and you’re an unforgettable character who tells stories time and again

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Tragedy as ‘vibrant’ woman, 20, dies suddenly after her heart stopped – with devastated parents making emotional plea

A HEARTBROKEN family have paid tribute to their “vibrant” daughter, 20, who died suddenly.

Poppy Eagle, from Washington, in Tyne and Wear, died on August 7 this year after her heart stopped, despite no known history of health problems.

Devastated parents with their deceased daughter in a photo.
Poppy’s family have created a charity foundation in her name

The fashion student left behind four siblings and devastated parents Vicki and Peter.

 Her family have since created the Poppy’s Light Foundation, which aims to help cardiac screening for children and young people.

They are hoping to prevent future deaths as they believe Poppy could have been saved if she had gone through screening.

Poppy’s Mum Vicki told ChronicleLive: “Poppy’s Light fundraising has been such a success and there’s a real comfort in that.

“What we have found is that there is really not a great deal of support around for bereaved children.

“Poppy was such a loving person, so vibrant, so full of light.

“So the charity is a way of keeping that light shining while doing something that can support other children.”

The family have a £25,000 fundraising target and Vicki said “the whole community” have been pulling together to support them.

Peter, one of Poppy’s brothers and other dads are setting off to climb Kilamanjaro next month to raise donations.

Devastated parents with their deceased daughter.
Vicki Eagle / Poppy's Light Foundation
Poppy Eagle died suddenly on August 7 this year[/caption]

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