It's a big month for Prince George. He's just waved goodbye to his prep school, celebrated his 13th birthday this week and his thoughts turn to starting Eton College in September. A huge transition - and one that is allied to his further preparation as future King.

I'm told he hasn't fully faced up to the enormity of his future (how can you when you're just becoming a teenager?) but takes his responsibilities very seriously.

However, this birthday marks a real watershed from child to adult.

Of course, like most teens and tweens he's likely massively self-conscious, right-on and prone to moodiness.

But he loves music, takes guitar lessons and follows in the tradition of his father, grandfather and great-grandfather in taking a keen interest in conservation.

And thanks to the hands-on nature of the Prince and Princess of Wales' parenting, he has been able to live a remarkably 'normal' life.

He's enjoyed watching the football World Cup, supports Aston Villa like his dad (who takes him to matches, pictured above) and participates in national sporting competitions.

Yet he's also heir to the throne and, as such, has slowly been introduced to a life of duty. It must be so strange to know that your future is preordained.

Sure, he will make GCSE then A-level choices at Eton College, which has educated future leaders for centuries. He may go on to study a university degree and, as future Head of the Armed Forces, in all likelihood do some form of military service (he's taking flying lessons and is apparently already a keen pilot).

Yet he knows what the future holds - or at least some of it. His parents have introduced him slowly to 'the Firm'.

George joined his parents at a Buckingham Palace tea party last year honouring World War Two veterans for VE Day (pictured left), and last December went with his father to The Passage homeless shelter to help cook and serve a special Christmas lunch for residents.

Last month, he went on his first official visit with just his mother, to RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire, to mark Armed Forces Day and inspect the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight.

But for now, it's a special summer.

A holiday of outdoor pursuits, such as sailing, swimming and picnics at Anmer Hall - the family's country retreat in Norfolk - beckons. It's sure to be a summer to remember, as he prepares to step into the more grown-up world of senior school.

I hope he enjoys every second. Happy birthday, George!

This feature first appeared in Woman magazine. Subscribe now and get your first 6 issues for £1.

In the end, was this really what Prince Harry wanted?

All the drama, the will-he/won't-he come, the will-the-kids-come/will-they-not confusion and chaos? Perhaps with hindsight, the Duke of Sussex may look back on his two-week visit to the UK and realise how catastrophically he got it wrong.

Then again, maybe not. It never quite ceases to amaze me how Harry's victim mentality ensures that it is ALWAYS someone else's fault.

It's the monarchy's fault, the men in grey suits' fault, his brother's fault, his stepmother's fault and even the British government's fault.

The blame is never his.

Eventually, he did manage to arrange that longed-for meeting between his father and his two children, Prince Archie, seven, and Princess Lilibet, five.

The audience - finally convened with King Charles and Queen Camilla at Highgrove, their private Gloucestershire residence - was, after all, supposed to be the whole point of his trip to the UK. The King had not seen his Sussex grandchildren for four years – and had only met Lili once.

But I always thought it was a little dangerous - and actually a bit disrespectful to military veterans - that Harry combined his working engagements with family ones.

He had arranged to visit Birmingham to fire the starter pistol on the one-year-to-go mark for the Invictus Games and to attend a summer party for the charity Scotty's Little Soldiers (which provides support for bereaved military children).

So far, so good. But the wheels started to come off even before Harry had set foot in the country.

The Sussexes briefed the press in June that they would come to the UK and bring their children to meet the King.

Prince William was said to be unhappy - and I'm told made it clear that Harry and Meghan were not to be offered Windsor Castle, or indeed any royal accommodation in Windsor.

He did not want to run any risk of seeing his younger brother - or Meghan Markle - on his home turf. A brutal showdown (which is what it would surely be) between the warring brothers is something that William would want to avoid at all costs.

In fact, I'd go as far as to say that he'd snub Harry if he came anywhere near. My sources tell me that their relationship is far from thawing.

The King offered Harry somewhere at Buckingham Palace but the duke did not initially respond either way. What followed next suggested perhaps why he'd announced he was bringing his wife and children so publicly.

Harry had hoped to force the government (via the Home Office decision-making body RAVEC) to approve full royal-level protection for his family as he believes it's not safe for them to visit the UK without it.

Yet although the Sussexes would enjoy full royal protection when inside the palace, and they had already sent their itinerary to select journalists like me in the full knowledge that they did not have Metropolitan Police protection, when they were told they weren't going to get the security they wanted, all hell broke loose.

It was briefed that Prince Harry was 'devastated' and 'close to tears'.

Then he told his father he wouldn't stay at Buckingham Palace, only a couple of hours later to say, actually he did want to stay there - just 48 hours before he was due to arrive.

But by then it was too late.

The King put his foot down (and I was getting whiplash with all the about turns) and said no, he couldn't stay. Staff had to be given adequate notice to get rooms ready at the palace and there wasn't enough time.

Part of the problem was that Harry was about to get his judgement in his long court battle for unlawful information gathering against the Daily Mail.

The King no doubt wanted to avoid being dragged into Harry's railing against both the judge and the press once it was announced that he had lost on all counts.

His son has waged war against the pillars of our national life - the press, judiciary and government - not to mention his pot shots against the monarchy itself, from which he has to stand above the fray.

No wonder the King didn't want him to stay at 'Monarchy HQ' - after all, Buckingham Palace is not lastminute.com!

In the event, Harry did strike out of the capital, visiting Birmingham Children's Hospital on behalf of the WellChild charity. He and his family also squeezed in a visit to Althorp, where Princess Diana is buried.

Back in London that same day, William and Kate were presenting their own picture-perfect family image at Wimbledon with children George and Charlotte.

But this visit to our shores and Harry's reaction to the judgement in the court case seems to reconfirm that he lives in a bubble where it is his way or the highway. And when opposition is encountered, it's like a toddler tantrum - toys thrown out of the pram.

Harry's apparent entitlement, lack of good judgement and eternal lashing out have perhaps destroyed his chances of fully rebuilding bridges with his family. Yes, he and Meghan were able to bring their children to meet their grandfather (who is still receiving cancer treatment, don't forget).

But as a future blueprint for calm, measured - and treasured - family time, Harry blew it.

This feature first appeared in Woman magazine. Subscribe now and get your first 6 issues for £1.

Jo Whiley is known for her upbeat and positive attitude, be it on her Radio 2 show or chatting with pal Zoe Ball on their Dig It podcast.

But, speaking in the September issue of woman&home, Jo - who recently turned 61 - has admitted she has had some low points of late, having to deal with parental illness, meaning she had to put her usual routine and life to the side.

She said, “Things have been hard on a personal level lately, but they are better now than they were. My mum had a back operation over Christmas, and for a long time, all I was doing was going to the hospital and sitting with Mum and Dad.

“That became my whole world. Dad has Parkinson’s, and it was just about getting through each day and being there for them. Talking about the practical level of having a sibling with learning disabilities is really important too.

“My parents listened to my podcast when I talked about what a nightmare Christmas was, so I got a warning from them about sharing too much, and I have to respect that. I also got told off by my mum for swearing, and that was a learning curve!

“When life got busy, exercise and seeing my friends were the first things to go.”

And, after a period of not hitting her regular fitness goals, Jo - who has four children with husband Steve Morton, who she married in 1991 - undertook a half marathon, and it spurred her on to get back into self-care.

“Self-care is so important. Friends say that exercise keeps them sane, and I agree,” she said, adding, “For me, it isn’t about how you look, it’s about feeling like yourself again, those endorphins flowing, and having a little bit of time that’s just for you.

“I did a half-marathon recently, which was stupid when I hadn’t trained, but it made me realise how much I hate not exercising and what an unhappy person it makes me. Now I’m back doing weights and swimming, and it helps my head so much.”

However, it isn’t all hitting the gym, Jo still has plenty of time for fun - even though her ability to stay up as late has diminished over the years.

“I prefer hosting parties at home over going to them. We have a ‘club’ called Miniscule of Sound in a shed in the garden, which has a disco ball, dry ice and a DJ booth,” she said. “The last party was still banging at 5.20am. I’d had a pillow over my head since 3.30am, and eventually I had to go down there in my pants and a sweatshirt, shut off the dry ice and ask them to stop. They were very good about it and went to another party!”

As well as her radio and podcast with Zoe, Jo also hosts one called Roots for the Royal Horticultural Society, which has meant she has got to meet and interview with likes of Monty Don and Dame Mary Berry. However, the person that really got to her - and forced her to change her mind on something - was Dame Judi Dench.

“Those are genuinely pinch-yourself moments because they’re people I’ve admired for years. The second Judi starts speaking, you listen.

“We sat in her garden drinking champagne and chatting, and I came away thinking that I should always have champagne on the go. I want to be as rock ‘n’ roll as Judi.

“Judi inspired me to stop decluttering. I’d been going through a phase of clearing things out at home.

"When I walked into Judi’s house, every room was filled with memories – family photos, drawings, little keepsakes – the whole place felt full of love. I came away thinking home isn’t about having everything neat and perfect, so I put all of my family photographs back up.”

Piers Morgan has never been backwards in coming forwards in terms of how he feels about the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.

Having walked out of his six-year job on Good Morning Britain in 2021 following remarks he made about the former Meghan Markle - which gained a huge 41,000 complaints to television standards regulator Ofcom - he has not stood down on his forthright opinions about the controversial quasi-royal couple.

Now, he’s hit out at the pair again, accusing them of hypocrisy for discussing the importance of privacy online and then choosing to post pictures of their children, Prince Archie, seven, and Princess Lilibet, five, on their social media - albeit with their faces obscured.

He told Woman, 'My old friends the Duke and Duchess of Sussex keep preaching to us about privacy and about the need to be careful online, and how dangerous it is for kids – and then what did they do? They upload photographs of their five-year-old child on social media [for her birthday] to billions of people, immediately recognisable.

'And I’m like, “What are you doing? What is this about? Why would you preach about privacy? Why would you lecture the world to be very careful with children online and then put your own child out there to millions of people?” It makes no sense to me.

'Maybe it makes sense to their fans, I don’t know, but to me, that is a classic example of the kind of double standard that I think is ridiculous. If you are going to start preaching about stuff, at least try and live up to it. Don’t immediately do something which is the complete opposite of what you’ve been preaching about.'

Speaking again on 5’s The Royals Uncensored show, Piers discussed the fact that the pair would likely be coming to the UK with their children for the first time in years, as part of the Invictus Games countdown. As Woman went to press, Buckingham Palace had reportedly withdrawn an invitation for Harry to stay at the royal residence while in London.

Piers said, 'How do you trust these two? And they’re going to bring the kids [to the UK] that they keep preaching to the world about privacy, and how to protect kids online. Meantime, she’s out there, pumping week after week, more and more pictures of their kids... so there’s an absolute hypocrisy there which I find, honestly, frankly, quite sickening.'

It’s not the first time that Piers, 61, has hit out at Harry and Meghan and called them hypocrites. He did so in 2019 - prior to the couple leaving royal life in 2020 - when it was noted that they had been taking private jets while ‘preaching’ about environmental issues. ‘They are making themselves look like rank hypocrites and you can’t, as a royal, do that,’ he said at the time on GMB.

And despite Piers making a career out of giving his opinions - which he now does on YouTube channel Piers Morgan Uncensored, which has 4.4 million subscribers - he believes those in the public eye should stop moaning.

‘I think the celebrity public-figure side shouldn’t whine too much,’ he said. ‘Mick Jagger has it right - never complain, never explain - and the Queen Mother said the same. You rarely heard her speaking in public.

'Let what you do, do its own talking. I think it’s really good advice. People talk too much. I know that sounds pretty rich coming from me, but then I’m supposed to talk too much!’

Additionally, Piers hit out at his former show, GMB - which has found itself at the centre of budget cuts at ITV Daytime - claiming it cannot keep up with the kind of programming he is now doing.

‘Our audience [of the Piers Morgan Uncensored show] is growing exponentially around the world, at exactly the same rate as most mainstream TV shows. I don’t want to mention Good Morning Britain, because, obviously, they don’t have me any more, so understandable that the audience halved, so you get my point.

'Yes, dramatically. I think YouTube is how most young people watch anything. I know because I’ve got four kids, from the age of 32 right down to 14, and it’s all they watch. They don’t watch television unless it’s a major live event.

‘I’ll often do my show from a little cupboard somewhere. Literally, sometimes I will be in the Middle East somewhere, and I’ve got to do a show. I’ll get in the cupboard and put a camera on and get my laptop going. Nobody cares as long as the content is good, and I’m still doing my job.’

With Piers’ Uncensored show seeming to grow and grow, it looks unlikely he’ll be giving up his often controversial opinions any time soon!

This feature first appeared in Woman magazine. Subscribe now and get your first 6 issues for £1.

As Prince Harry carries out engagements in the UK the question that we're all still asking ourselves is: will Meghan, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet be flying over to join him? The rest of the Sussex family has stayed in California so far but there has been speculation that they might meet up with the Duke once he leaves London.

It would be a huge moment for Archie and Lilibet and Woman's Royal Editor Emily Andrews assumes that the children will see King Charles if they come to the UK. Writing in the latest issue, she also suggests that it will "be interesting to see whether Meghan posts any pictures of that."

Emily adds, "She knows those images could boost the diminishing popularity of the Sussexes stateside and remind everyone of their royal pedigree and reacceptance into the family."

Since the Duchess of Sussex re-joined Instagram we've seen a lot more of seven-year-old Archie and five-year-old Lilibet. They regularly appear in pictures and videos taken either in the garden of the Sussexes' Montecito home, or inside helping Meghan cook.

Their faces are always kept away from the camera to give them more privacy. Even so, photos of a possible reunion with Charles would naturally be met with immense excitement online. He's understood to have only met Lilibet once in person and there were no pictures shared of that.

A snap with both his Sussex grandchildren would be the first of its kind to be shared. Emily believes that Meghan is well aware of the positive response she'd get to sharing a picture like this, but that doesn't necessarily mean she'd ever do it.

Balancing privacy and PR is a tricky thing and royal author Tom Quinn has claimed that Meghan and Harry have argued about this before. In Betrayal, he alleged, "Insiders spoke about tensions between them and arguments about their children. Harry was reportedly irritated that Meghan used their children to promote herself."

The author goes on to suggest that Harry wants Archie and Lilibet to be "shielded from the media" and reportedly "insisted" that they shouldn't be photographed. Tom added, "Meghan argued the opposite. The children, she believed, were important for her brand. She spoke of them living as normal Californian children."

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex's spokesperson has responded to Betrayal, expressing their view that "those interested in facts will look elsewhere; those seeking deranged conspiracy and melodrama know exactly where to find [Bower]."

Personally, I believe that if Meghan, Archie and Lilibet do visit the UK and see King Charles, we won't see a picture posted on social media. However, Harry and Meghan might at least confirm the meeting took place to quell the public's curiosity.

This would also remind people of their "royal pedigree and reacceptance into the family". King Charles's schedule is always very busy, but a source has claimed to The Mirror that he "would not pass up the opportunity to spend time with his grandchildren."

"If there is a way of making it possible, he will do it," they stated.

Read Emily Andrews' feature in Woman magazine. Subscribe now and get your first 6 issues for £1.

Prince Harry is desperate for a royal reunion, I understand. Sources tell me he would love nothing better than an invitation from his father, so Charles can see his Sussex grandchildren for the first time in four years.

This July would prove the perfect opportunity as Harry, possibly with Meghan, Archie, seven, and Lili, five, is visiting the UK for the ‘one year to go’ until the Invictus Games in Birmingham.

But there’s one problem: Queen Camilla. It’s thought that she has never really forgiven Harry, 41, for effectively throwing her under the bus in his autobiography Spare and in the TV interviews he gave to publicise it.

Harry described Camilla as ‘the villain’ and the ‘third person’ in his parents’ marriage. He accused her of being ‘dangerous’ and of launching a campaign at his expense to rehabilitate her image in the British tabloids, after Princess Diana appeared to expose her affair with the then Prince Charles.

Harry revealed that he and Prince William pleaded with their father not to marry Camilla, fearing it would cause ‘more harm than good’.

He described, in excruciating detail, the horror he felt in seeing ‘the other woman’ on his own, likening their initial meeting to having an ‘injection’ and writing, ‘Close your eyes, over before you know it.’

Moreover, he accused Camilla of leaking stories about him to the press to smooth her path to becoming queen consort. He claimed she ‘sacrificed me on her personal PR altar’ and ‘left bodies in the street’ by trading stories to secure positive headlines. Ouch! No wonder she doesn’t want to see him.

Indeed, I’m told Camilla joked ‘over my dead body’ to inviting Harry and Meghan to stay with her and the King at Sandringham or Balmoral. It may be a joke (and we now know the King has offered an olive branch in the form of a royal residence for them to stay in) but the sentiment is thought to be real!

Camilla may not, understandably, be keen. If she was to push back, which she won’t because she wants harmony for her husband, it would be yet another new fall-out that no one needs.

When Harry flew to London in February 2024, after the King announced that he was being treated for cancer, I gather he hoped to accompany his father to Sandringham, but it was made very clear that the King and Queen were taking the helicopter to Norfolk without him.

Of course, Charles could decide to see Harry (and Meghan plus the kids if they come) on his own. After Harry and Meghan’s wedding in 2018, they both stayed with Charles at the Castle of Mey (Queen Elizabeth, the Queen Mother’s favourite home in the far north of Scotland), where Harry later wrote that, in hope of conceiving their first child, he sang to the Scottish mermaids, in the form of seals, on the Caithness coast. (I’m not joking - he did actually write that and, thinking it was a ‘good omen’, he jumped in the sea to swim with them!)

I understand that Camilla, by that point, had tried to befriend Meghan but had been rebuffed (like Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh) so she chose to stay in Gloucestershire.

Harry and Camilla’s relationship had always been slightly uneasy but by the time of his wedding to Meghan it had much improved. So she was staggered when Harry hurled so many hurtful barbs her way - which also angered the King.

A friend told me, ‘The Queen has always appreciated how hard it has been for William and Harry after the death of their mother. She never sought to take her place, and has always tried to remain sensitive. But she has kept her counsel, despite the many slings and arrows of public acrimony, to protect the monarchy. So she found Meghan and Harry’s public rejection and criticism, which caused so much damage, unforgivable.’

I am told Harry is now particularly keen for his children to spend time with King Charles during his July visit. Since Harry and Meghan stepped back from royal duties and relocated to California in spring 2020, the monarch has had only limited opportunities to see his Sussex grandchildren.

Charles has met Lilibet only once, during the Sussexes’ visit to the UK for Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022. That same trip also marked the last time that he saw Archie, who was then three years old.

Having the King meet the children would not only allow them to spend time with their grandfather but could also serve as a strategic move for Harry, who has previously raised concerns about not receiving the level of security he feels is necessary.

But the Queen is very protective of her husband and does not want to see him hurt – or used. So despite the reports that Harry and his family have been offered a private residence by the King, I highly doubt Camilla will be anywhere near.

This feature first appeared in Woman magazine. Subscribe now and get your first 6 issues for £1.

It's not just the Duke of Sussex's relationship with his father and brother that's suffered since he and Meghan moved to California. According to royal expert Duncan Larcombe, rumours are that Harry has "barely spoken" with Zara Tindall in recent years.

Writing in Woman magazine, Duncan revealed that "sources say the Duke of Sussex has all but lost touch with his one-time playmate Zara". The pair used to be incredibly close and it was partly thanks to Harry that Zara met her husband Mike during the Rugby World Cup in 2003.

"I understand they have barely spoken in the years since the prince, 41, met and married Meghan," the expert said. "Not only are they said to have drifted apart, but the old close friendship they once enjoyed has, I understand, almost entirely evaporated."

Prince Harry and Zara haven't been seen in public together since King Charles's coronation and then only briefly. Meanwhile Mike spoke about how his cousin-in-law had changed at the 2026 Hay Festival during a talk with his The Good, The Bad & The Rugby podcast co-hosts.

As they joked about people embarrassing themselves at the Tindalls' wedding he quipped, "A lot of other people managed that way better than you – [like] Harry, when he was fun".

It doesn't just seem to be Zara who Harry has drifted apart from. He was the only cousin not at Peter Phillips and Harriet Sperling's wedding on 6th June apart from Lady Louise Windsor, who's studying in her final year at university. We don't know whether Prince Harry and Meghan were invited or if they didn't make the guest list.

In an episode of her and Reverend Richard Coles' podcast Keeping Up With The Royals, woman&home royal correspondent Emily Andrews speculated that Peter thought it would be tricky if he asked them.

"The Sussex's team wouldn't be drawn on whether Harry and Meghan were invited or not," she said. "I suspect that Peter probably didn't invite Harry and Meghan because it's too problematic."

Reports have also alleged that they hadn't spoken for a while either, though he also used to be close with Harry. He was with him and William at Balmoral when they were told Princess Diana had died and royal biographer Hugo Vickers has said Peter Phillips was a "huge help".

It was interesting to see that whilst Harry and Meghan weren't at his wedding, possibly because it would be "problematic", Princesses Eugenie and Beatrice were.

This was their first public appearance since Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's arrest in February. They've not been personally accused of anything and their father continues to deny all allegations of wrongdoing, but there's been a lot of scrutiny of them by association.

Clearly, they are still quite close to Peter and he wanted them there regardless. It's sad to see how Prince Harry's relationship with his cousins appears to have also been affected by everything in recent years.

"I think it's not just William who is upset by what Harry's done," Emily Andrews said, adding. "Let's not forget that [Harry's] talked a lot about how he has felt let down in the royal machinery… I think there are many other members of the family who felt that Harry has behaved badly".

There was an intriguing story about Frogmore Cottage - which is the former home of the Sussexes - recently.

I remember breaking the exclusive story that the late Queen Elizabeth had given the use of the house to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle as a wedding present.

Everyone had expected the Sussexes to move into Kensington Palace (a huge building which is split into apartments) as a married couple, upgrading from Harry’s bachelor pad, the two-bedroom Nottingham Cottage in the grounds.

But, as I discovered, things had got so bad between Prince William and Harry, neither brother wanted to live next door to each other.

So Frogmore Cottage, which had previously been split into five staff apartments, had £2.4 million spent on it to convert it back to a single home in 2019.

Now, it’s been reported that three years after the Sussexes vacated the property, any trace of them is to be wiped!

The Crown Estate, who own the property on behalf of the monarch, are looking at plans to reverse the revamp and subdivide the house to let it to royal staff.

Harry and Meghan wanted to keep it as their UK home, but were evicted by the King in 2023, just weeks after the publication of Harry’s vitriolic, tell-all book Spare.

King Charles had wanted his brother Andrew to move there, but he opted instead for Sandringham.

I thought it was very strange that having spent all that money renovating Frogmore (which Harry pointedly paid back after he quit as a working royal) the Crown Estate would potentially rip it all out.

I can understand that it’s a bit tricky (and expensive) to let as one property as it’s within the Windsor security cordon, but surely that’s the purpose of advanced security vetting.

What’s even more bizarre is that I’m told Harry and Meghan are really annoyed about it! They have a lovely home in California - why do they care what happens with Frogmore?

But it’s the symbolism, isn't it?

The fact that not just them but even the very memory of them, and their marital home, is being removed.

First of all they were evicted (and Harry really wanted to keep it as his UK base). Now they are being erased.

Sure, it can be dressed up as ‘repurposing’ for staff accommodation. But it’s a virtual expunging from royal history. As if the ‘Harry and Meghan era’ never existed.

And that’s got to hurt.

This feature first appeared in Woman magazine. Subscribe now and get your first 6 issues for £1.

Of all the late Queen’s grandchildren, Prince Harry once seemed to have a particular bond with Princess Anne’s daughter Zara Phillips (now Tindall).

The cousins shared a fun-loving and at times rebellious streak that seemed to set them apart from the more stuffy and formal members of the family.

Never was this more evident than when Zara and Harry celebrated watching the England team win the final of the Rugby World Cup in Sydney back in November 2003.

Then third in line to the throne, Harry was on a gap year in the host country Australia, while Zara was letting her hair down with pals.

They were kindred spirits who seemed to have so much in common. And, of course, it was during that trip that Zara would meet her future hubby, hunky World Cup hero Mike Tindall.

Harry had already started to earn the tag of the partying, carefree prince, while his cousin had grabbed the headlines for having her tongue pierced - something seen as an un-royal act of rebellion at the time.

Paradoxically, the cousins enjoyed a particular bond with the late Queen Elizabeth, who seemed to have an unlikely soft spot for them both.

For Harry, Zara was someone who he could be himself with, a family member who shared the same down-to-earth personality, which made her fun to be with.

And for Zara, Harry was someone who she always seemed to gravitate towards as they endured official family gatherings.

How things have changed. Six years after he fled to America, sources say the Duke of Sussex has all but lost touch with his one-time playmate Zara.

In fact, I understand they have barely spoken in the years since the prince, 41, met and married Meghan.

Not only are they said to have drifted apart, but the old close friendship they once enjoyed has, I understand, almost entirely evaporated.

One of the clearest indications of how hard things have become was served up recently by Zara’s husband. Speaking at an event at Hay Festival with his co-hosts from his rugby podcast, Mike hit the headlines for a throwaway comment he made that seemed to sum up Zara’s revised view of Harry in this post-Megxit era.

The former England centre quipped that he knew Harry ‘when he was fun’ – a remark that brought laughter from his fellow broadcaster James Haskell.

On the surface, it may have seemed a fairly harmless remark from someone who was once a drinking buddy of the spare to the heir. But in reality, it could well have hit a sore spot for Harry – after all, Mike, 47, has first-hand experience of what Harry’s cousins really think of him in recent times.

In my opinion, there is no way Mike would have risked incurring the wrath of his wife by making such a comment in public unless it truly reflected how she herself feels.

It suggested something that royal watchers have suspected for several years – that Harry’s cousins feel he has changed a huge amount, and certainly since moving away.

The fun-loving, beer-swilling royal who always managed to ease the tedium of set-piece occasions with his uniquely devil-may-care attitude towards stuffy family gatherings appears to be a thing of the past.

Instead, Harry has, it seems, become an outcast in his own family, carrying the weight of the world on his shoulders. Once the life and soul of the party, he is arguably a shadow of his former self.

Zara is probably far too savvy to risk making such a comment in public. But the fact her husband made it perhaps proves how Harry is viewed by the wider family who once adored him.

There is no doubt that Harry will have been made aware of the comment and it is almost impossible to imagine that it wouldn’t have stung.

Until Mike’s remark, the royals have followed a strict policy of not being drawn into tit-for-tat comments about how Harry is viewed these days. A senior royal source told me, ‘It may have been a throwaway remark, but what Mike said would have really upset Harry.'

'He has been at great pains to convince people he is living the dream since quitting life as a full-time working royal. But it perhaps reveals a lot about how Harry is now perceived by his cousin Zara in the years since he and Meghan cut ties with the family.’

Clearly, and maybe unsurprisingly, Zara seems to have lost touch with the cousin who she once shared so much with. What we don’t know is whether her view comes out of loyalty to William and Kate.

Harry will visit the UK next month, but there are currently no plans for him to see any members of his family, including Zara.

This feature first appeared in Woman magazine. Subscribe now and get your first 6 issues for £1.

Sleep and hot weather are not a match made in heaven in the UK, but there are ways to sleep better in the heat if you're struggling to drift off this week.

Everyone has their own 'hack' for cooling a bedroom down, whether it's putting ice in front of a fan or changing the bedding, but sometimes it's even simpler changes to your bedtime routine that can make a difference.

Sleep expert Alison Jones says: “Trying to sleep when it’s warm can take some of the joy out of this time of year. Humid nights can cause people to wake more frequently, reducing sleep quality and quantity. Warm temperatures reduce the time spent in slow-wave sleep and REM sleep - the stages when the body does critical work to rejuvenate and restore.”

One way to improve airflow during the night is to change your sleeping position. It can be tempting to lie flat on your back and starfish (with your arms and legs splayed). This may not be the most effective option. Alison recommends sleeping on your side. She says this “exposes more of your body to the air” and "heat from the body can escape more easily, which regulates body temperature,” she explains.

Keeping your hands and feet outside of the sheet or duvet will also help you regulate your body temperature.

Known as the 'pole' sleeping position, this alignment is also recommended for better digestion and circulation, which are especially appreciated in the summer months.

Placing a pillow between your knees can help align your hips and make the position more comfortable to sleep in, especially if you're not used to it, as it will prevent your top leg from pulling your spine out of neutral.

Tips for sleeping in the heat

• Keep light and air out of your bedroom: One of the best ways to keep your house and its bedrooms cool is by keeping blinds, curtains and windows all closed. This will stop the hot air and sunlight from coming in during the day. Once it’s cooler in the early morning or evening, you can open them again and enjoy sleeping in cooler temperatures.
• Have a lukewarm shower before bed: If you’ve been hot and sweaty all day, there’s nothing better than a shower before bed to cool you down. Aim for one with lukewarm water, which will bring your body temperature down before you get into bed.
• Put your pillowcase in the freezer: Obviously this trick won’t last the night, but it might help keep you cool as you drift off. Put your pillowcase inside a bag in the freezer an hour or two before bed.
• Go for cotton: Cotton bedding and loose cotton or linen pyjamas are a great option for sleeping under or in during hot weather because they release heat and moisture most effectively. Synthetic fibres will make you sweat more and keep the moisture close to your skin, which is uncomfortable.
• Avoid using a fan all through the night: While cooling fans can be effective, they can also be quite disruptive to sleep. They can be noisy and also lead to drops in body temperature in the early hours. This might cause you to wake up. They can also make your hay fever symptoms worse at night because they blow pollen or dust around. Set a timer to turn the fan off after a few hours and point fans at the ceiling or a wall.
• Move to another room: If you sleep on the top floor of a house and it’s unbearable at night, move to a ground-floor room for a few days for respite from the heat.

Alex Jones has been part of the BBC’s The One Show for more than 15 years, becoming known for her girl-next-door vibe and empathetic - and sometimes hilarious - interview style. Guests over the years have ranged from Robert De Niro and Elizabeth Hurley to members of the public who have made huge differences in their communities - amongst many others.

Now, the show is celebrating 20 years on our TV screens, and it’s still as successful as ever, with Alex, 49, still at the helm and clearly still enjoying every minute.

When woman&home sat down to chat with Alex, she is clear she is not slowing down, and is keen to drive forward as she approaches her sixth decade.

“It’s important to push yourself sometimes, because we can all live in our comfort zone. Whenever you get the opportunity to try something different, take it. When you get to your mid 30s, late 30s, early 40s, whatever age, people can get stuck in a rut in all ways, whether that’s with clothes, make-up or even the way we style our house. We can’t step outside and see that for ourselves. People are like onions – you can peel different layers off,” she said.

She lives in the countryside with her husband, insurance broker Charlie Thomson and their three children – Teddy, nine, Kit, seven, and Annie, four – and she admits she has had to make sacrifices, like many women, between her career and home life.

“Every woman is making some sort of sacrifice. Something always has to give. There’s got to be compromise. You can’t do everything, it’s impossible. I still find it hard that I’m not home every evening to see the kids and ask how their day was. It gives you comfort that everyone is in the same position and life isn’t perfect.

"I’ll be on The One Show, and they’ll be doing the live countdown and Charlie will be texting, saying, ‘Does Kit need a packed lunch tomorrow?’ and I’ll reply, ‘Yes! I’ll get some ham on the way home, and don’t forget to take the bread out of the freezer. I’ve got to go, the title music is on.’

"People say, ‘You’ll look back on this and hanker for these days.’ I already know how lucky I am to have kids at this age, and it’s amazing. All of the mundane stuff, the WhatsApp groups, the running around, and the 50 million water bottles you can never find lids for. I think, ‘Imagine if it was quiet in the house?’ The noise and the pace and the rhythm of it is what makes you feel vital and alive. I appreciate it so much.”

Turning 50 next year, Alex admits she is ‘aiming for at least 100’, and thinks laughter is the key to a good life. “It’s so important to have fun in life, because without fun, what’s the point? We laugh a lot as a family, and I would choose a big old barbecue in the garden with family, or drinks in the kitchen that accidentally go on until 3am, over going to a party, any time. I love being at home more than anything.

“I’ll celebrate my 50th with my family and school friends. My school friends are still my best friends, so we’ve got a couple of 50th trips planned. We are all lucky to be alive and live the lives we do, and that’s to be celebrated.”

If, like me, you've been touched by cancer, the recent engagements by Catherine, Princess of Wales will have brought a tear to your eye.

One in two of us will be diagnosed with it in our lifetimes, and most of us have family or friends who have undergone this arduous journey.

Catherine, of course, is in remission from her cancer (she's never said what kind she had), which was caught in January 2024. She underwent chemotherapy, then took a period of time of rest and recovery over the past couple of years.

Now I'd say Kate is very much back!

And she has really used her personal experience to connect with people in a totally authentic and genuine way.

On a visit to The Christie hospital in Manchester she was almost overcome as she hugged Claire Lorente, 30, who had recently finished her breast cancer treatment. As Claire prepared for the symbolic action of ringing the bell to mark the moment, both women were emotional.

Her voice slightly breaking, Kate told her, 'Well done, well done you. What a journey. Well done, you've been amazing. It's tough.'

Claire was crying. She was not the only one.

Kate turned to Claire's partner Pablo, 30, and added, 'Well done. I know it's just as hard for family and loved ones.'

The princess certainly does know that. She talked about how hard it had been for her children - Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 11, and Prince Louis, eight - as well as her parents.

But, as ever with Kate, it was not about her. She stepped back and made sure the moment was all about Claire, Pablo and Enzo, their eight-month-old baby.

Later, she wrote on social media, 'Healing is about so much more than treatment alone. A cancer diagnosis affects every part of life, in mind, body and the deeper part of ourselves. Thank you for sharing your stories with me. C'

At a Cancer Research UK reception two days earlier - in a heart-print red dress - it wasn't just the celebrities she chatted to.

Yes, the pictures of her meeting Davina McCall and Ronan Keating made the front pages, but Kate sought out the clinicians, researchers and scientists who are finding new ways to fight this disease.

She was there to support the King, who is still receiving treatment for his cancer, although at a much more reduced rate than last year.

In her own quiet way, Kate brings so much comfort to so many people - a true princess of hearts.

This feature first appeared in Woman magazine. Subscribe now and get your first 6 issues for £1.

Is there anything more summery than a barbecue? Even the Royal Family like firing up the grill this time of year and according to Mike Tindall, Zara is a bit of an expert. Speaking exclusively to woman&home's royal correspondent Emily Andrews in the July issue, the rugby star confessed his wife is better at barbecuing than he is.

"Zara is competitive in everything!" he said. "I think that's the individual mindset. And she's an amazing cook, better than me 100% and better on the barbecue."

She might be the BBQ pro but Mike still likes to be involved, adding, "I enjoy standing around a barbecue because what man doesn't? It makes you feel even manlier cooking meat! But washing up and clearing up, that's my space."

It seems like Zara Tindall has inherited her love - and skill - at cooking on the barbecue from her late grandfather Prince Philip who was famous for his at-home grills. He might've been the husband of a reigning Queen, but Philip liked a challenge and once he decided to learn how to BBQ he put everything into it.

His BBQs are remembered fondly by his grandchildren and Prince William once explained that when the royals go on barbecues "there's no chef, there's [no-one] else".

"Every barbecue that I've ever been on, the Duke of Edinburgh has been there cooking," he told the BBC documentary, Prince Philip: The Royal Family Remembers, in 2021, which was filmed both before and after the Duke's death.

William added, "He'd be the first person to say when he started off he hadn't got a clue what he was doing. But such is the way that he is that he tackles a new challenge, and, you know, grapples it and learns as he does it. And he's mastered it."

When Prince Philip passed away Prince Harry even called his grandfather "master of the barbecue" - as well as "legend of banter". Cooking for his family was probably a nice change for Philip and gave them a slice of normal life outside the palace with its chefs.

Duchess Sophie has said before that Prince Edward is also "very good at barbecues" which his own children Louise and James love so those memories of Philip grilling have clearly inspired several generations of his family. I'd love to know if it's Zara or Edward that the royals turn to most now, as they've both nailed this summer skill.

At least Zara Tindall has Mike to clear things up! She might take after Philip with the cooking, but Mike is following in Queen Elizabeth's footsteps with the washing up.

Former British Prime Minister David Cameron said in 2022 that it was an "extraordinary treat" to go to Balmoral each year and recalled what it was like eating a meal with the Queen and Prince Philip out on the moor.

"And there at a sort of converted bothy, an old cottage on the hill, would be the Duke of Edinburgh with a barbeque he'd built himself, barbequing grouse for your dinner," he said. "I'm not making this up, you sat down and Prince Philip and Her Majesty the Queen served your dinner and cleared it away and washed it up while you sat talking with the other guests."

If the rumours are to be believed, it would be bigger than Spare. The ultimate first-hand account, not merely a publishing phenomenon but an extended multi-platform event including interviews, streaming components and global rights deals.

Meghan Markle's autobiography. For years it has been talked about as a potential project, never fully confirmed.

Indeed, buried right at the end of a Vanity Fair piece on the Sussexes last year was a reported rumour that Meghan's team had quietly floated the concept of a post-Harry divorce book to publishers.

The conversations (and, yes, supposedly, there were conversations!) were intended to gauge publisher interest in a hypothetical tell-all in the event of a future split.

Vanity Fair was quick to say that it was all purely exploratory (no manuscript, written proposals or offers) and any discussion was just to assess the appetite for such a memoir.

The appetite would surely be huge, and - given that Prince Harry received a reported £16 million in advance for his autobiography - so would the financial offers!

After all, neither she nor Harry has ever really gone into detail about some of their most damaging claims against the Royal Family, or who or what made Meghan feel suicidal and how she feels about it all now.

But it's widely believed Meghan keeps a diary and detailed records.

According to one publishing insider, 'Voice notes on her phone at 1am. Written journals. Structured reflections. She has been documenting everything since before Megxit.'

Its release would surely be bigger than Harry's Spare, which became the fastest selling non-fiction book of all-time, shifting more than 1.4 million copies on its first day of release in January 2023. By the following year, sales were in excess of six million. Publishing experts say Meghan's book could surpass even those numbers.

Although presumably a Meghan memoir would explore her life prior to joining the Firm - growing up as a child of divorce, struggling to make it in Hollywood before winning the part of Rachel Zane in Suits - it would of course be the past 10 years, since her relationship with Harry became public, that would generate the most headlines.

We already know from the couple's Netflix documentary how deeply hurt Meghan felt by the way she claims she was treated by Harry's family, by the press and by her own father.

Meghan also has a network of powerful Californian friends upon whom to call.

Neighbour Oprah Winfrey was the first to help Meghan and Harry tell their 'truth' on primetime TV - prompting that genius line from the late Queen Elizabeth that 'recollections may vary'.

Watched by 17 million Americans, 11 million Brits and millions more worldwide, the CBS interview in March 2021 was a global cultural event.

Meghan also counts Mellody Hobson as a mentor. Co-chief executive of Ariel Investments and former chair of Starbucks, the 57-year-old is married to Star Wars film-maker George Lucas and is a stellar networker in the world of finance and media. Such is her influence, she can open just about any door in Hollywood.

Another influential pal is Nicole Avant, a former diplomat who is married to the Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos.

Although the Netflix relationship has cooled - the Sussexes' five-year £74 million deal was only extended in a non-exclusive arrangement and the streamer pulled out of Meghan's As Ever lifestyle business - the personal relationships are still good.

Nicole, 58, has reportedly long been an advocate for Meghan - particularly behind the scenes in the notoriously tricky la-la land of Hollywood.

It's she who is thought to have fostered conversations about how a potential Meghan memoir could be developed in partnership with Netflix.

Meghan reportedly sees the book as an opportunity for a reset, and she would like to highlight what she sees as her success in America, as well as tell her version of events.

But the timing is risky.

Harry is desperately trying to mend his relationship with his father King Charles, and a new Meghan memoir could derail that. Thus, any publication is not believed to be imminent.

Harry wants to stabilise and improve relations with the Royal Family and is said to be pleased that Archie, seven, and Lili, five, have occasional chats and video calls with their grandfather.

So Meghan knows a book is a risk - but it's also leverage.

You can bet your bottom dollar that much of her memoir is already written. It's really just a question of when she'll decide to publish...

This feature first appeared in Woman magazine. Subscribe now and get your first 6 issues for £1.

We all know the Royal Family enjoys a bit of friendly rivalry, but who is the most competitive of all? If you said the Princess of Wales you might just be surprised by Mike Tindall's verdict.

The retired rugby star admits that "sport is rife" throughout the family and he thinks his wife Zara edges out her fellow royals with her competitiveness. Speaking exclusively to Royal Correspondent Emily Andrews in the July issue of woman&home, Mike explains that "individual athletes are more competitive" and adds that "Zara is competitive in everything!"

He suggests that this is because of the "individual mindset" and it makes sense that Olympic Silver Medal-winning Zara would love a competition. It's her livelihood after all and from the sounds of it, Mike was very confident in his answer.

During a segment on the 11th June episode of her Catching Up With The Royals podcast with co-host Reverend Richard Coles, Emily talked more about interviewing Mike and asking him the all-important question.

"I said, 'Who's more competitive? Who's the most competitive?' and he said, 'Zara'," Emily shared. "Zara in *everything*…without any hesitation."

According to Mike, his wife of almost 15 years is also an "amazing cook, better than [him] 100% and better on the barbecue" too. He also opened up to Emily about the couple's drinking games with the Princess of Wales and clarified something key.

When she, Prince William and Princess Anne appeared in a special episode of Mike's The Good, The Bad & The Rugby podcast in 2023 we heard about Kate's surprising love of beer pong. But the rugby star reveals that it's actually prosecco pong she plays.

He says, "I knew that the Princess of Wales was uber competitive because I'd seen her play a drinking game called beer pong, but normally we play prosecco pong! She still plays it with us."

If Zara truly is competitive about "everything" presumably she's keen to win these games with Kate and Mike too. Because they're working royals we get to see Prince William and Kate compete with each other more often when they undertake sports-based engagements.

On Mike's podcast, the Princess of Wales also confessed that behind-the-scenes she's not sure they've ever managed to finish a game of tennis. Instead it apparently becomes a "mental challenge" between them. However, in his book, Meet Ella, Kate's brother James claimed that William is happy to lose at card games.

"Ella [James's late spaniel] gives him a good excuse to escape the fiercely competitive nature of the Middleton family, which emerges every time we play our favourite fast-paced card game, racing demon," James alleged.

"I think he'd prefer to absent himself from the game entirely," he added. "My sisters and I exchange a knowing glance: William, for all the competitive rigour of his military training, is happy to be a loser at cards."

When Prince Harry and Meghan announced they were stepping back as working royals in 2020 the world reacted with dismay and there was speculation over how the Royal Family truly felt about it. Days later Queen Elizabeth declared in a personal message that Harry, Meghan and their son Archie "will always be much loved members of [her] family".

Nevertheless, it's now been suggested that she was slightly "worried" about what the Sussexes would do after their high-profile royal exit. Writing in the latest issue of Woman, royal correspondent Duncan Larcombe alleges that there was a condition set out by the monarch.

"Her Majesty made it clear to Harry that he and Meghan would leave with her blessing as long as they understood leaving royal life meant exactly that," he writes.

Duncan understands that "she was worried the Sussexes would continue with public engagements" but without coordinating their work to "prevent them overshadowing the actual work of the family". This half-in, half-out approach to royal life was something that Prince Harry and Meghan had reportedly hoped for.

However, Queen Elizabeth didn't share this vision for the Sussexes' future and left them in no doubt about her feelings. Writing in The Windsor Legacy, royal author Robert Jobson described a summit held at Sandringham House in January 2020.

"The answer from the top was clear: no halfway role was possible. They were either in or out," he claimed, adding, "Her Majesty's ruling deepened the existing tensions in the family, particularly between Harry and William."

Although the Duke and Duchess of Sussex followed the rules set out for them at first, in recent years the thing Queen Elizabeth was "worried" about is seemingly coming true. The couple's Australia trip in April garnered both praise and criticism, particularly when it came to the elements that were similar to a traditional royal tour.

The visit came just before King Charles and Queen Camilla's US State Visit. Then in May, Meghan visited Switzerland for the inauguration of The Lost Screen Memorial which is dedicated to children who lost their lives as a result of the harm they suffered on social media.

A few days before, the Princess of Wales undertook her first overseas visit since her cancer diagnosis in neighbouring Italy. The working royals coordinate their engagements carefully but since Harry and Meghan stepped back who knows if there's any sort of communication like this between them all.

There's inevitably a lot of direct comparison when Sussex visits and royal engagements occur around the same time. So it's understandable that Queen Elizabeth might have been concerned about the institution's work being "overshadowed" by headlines concerning Harry and Meghan.

Her dedication to the monarchy and the Commonwealth was one of her strongest character traits and her grandson praised it in a statement following her death in 2022.

"In celebrating the life of my grandmother, Her Majesty the Queen - and in mourning her loss - we are all reminded of the guiding compass she was to so many in her commitment to service and duty," he declared.

Read Duncan Larcombe's feature in Woman magazine. Subscribe now and get your first 6 issues for £1.

The time is fast approaching for George to start ‘big’ school.

And dad Prince William has revealed he’s been preparing for the transition by boarding on occasions at his prep school Lambrook.

It’s to the credit of Catherine, Princess of Wales and William that they’ve managed to keep their children out of the public eye to such an extent that they enjoy a huge amount of privacy.

After George’s birth, they thought a great deal about how to manage the public interest in their children.

They have used lawyers to clamp down on any unauthorised pictures and enjoyed the support of the mainstream media to ensure you will never see a ‘candid’ shot.

In return, the Waleses release occasional official photos of George, Charlotte and Louis to ensure their privacy is protected, and thank the public for their support.

It’s meant that George, 12, Charlotte, 11, and Louis, eight, have experienced a relatively normal childhood.

They participate in their school sports teams (George is apparently a talented swimmer, football player and completes triathlons), perform in the end-of-term drama shows and are generally treated the same as any other pupil.

Of course, there will always be public interest in the lives of the young Waleses, but in the main, their Berkshire prep school has succeeded in giving them an anonymous and extremely privileged education.

In a rare insight into the management of their childhood, Prince William has confirmed that George has started ‘flexi-boarding’ - which enables pupils to stay for anything from one to four nights a week of boarding - in advance of his progression to senior school in September.

Speaking to Heart Breakfast hosts Jamie Theakston and Amanda Holden during a broadcast from the Isles of Scilly (to highlight the work of the Duchy of Cornwall), William gave a sweet shout-out to his children.

'Charlotte and Louis - because George was boarding last night - so, Charlotte and Louis, if you’re listening, make sure you’re on time, please. Make sure you’re not fighting over who’s listening to what this morning,’ said the Duke of Cornwall, who turns 44 on 21 June.

The Prince and Princess of Wales (and George!) have apparently decided where he’s going next, but it has not yet been officially announced.

Eton College (William’s old school) is understood to be the front runner, but other options include Kate’s alma mater Marlborough College, Oundle school in Northamptonshire and Wellington College in Berkshire.

Watch this space!

This feature first appeared in Woman magazine. Subscribe now and get your first 6 issues for £1.

The warring Windsor brothers are heading for another stand-off after Prince William was angered by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s half-in, half-out behaviour.

Sources close to the future king have revealed to me his ‘deep concerns’ that the Sussexes are ignoring the rules set down by the late Queen Elizabeth when they quit royal life for a fresh start in America.

Her Majesty made it clear to Harry that he and Meghan would leave with her blessing as long as they understood leaving royal life meant exactly that. I understand that she was worried the Sussexes would continue with public engagements without their efforts being coordinated to prevent them overshadowing the actual work of the family.

Yet six years after ‘Megxit’ and the couple are increasingly breaking the agreement that was drawn up during crisis talks following Harry’s bombshell decision to spend much of his life abroad.

I believe that William is particularly angered by his brother’s recent foreign visits to Jordan, Australia and Ukraine, which bore all the hallmarks of official royal engagements in all but name.

Meghan’s visit to Switzerland to highlight the dangers of social media is also understood to have upset William as it had the potential to overshadow Kate’s first foreign visit since her cancer diagnosis, as both happened in mid-May.

Kate went to Italy to highlight her interest in early years development, making it her first overseas visit in more than three years.

My royal source told me, ‘William and Kate take a great deal of care and personal interest in the planning of their official engagements. Events including overseas visits are planned months in advance.

'The couple will not want anything to overshadow the roles they play as full-time working royals.

‘There is an increasing view that the King and his heir may well have to try and draw a line in the sand when it comes to Harry and Meghan. They are acting as though the discussions with the late Queen never took place.’

It was reported that William intends to ‘take a much harder line’ with his brother and sister-in-law when he becomes king, meaning the prospect of a bust-up is almost inevitable.

News of the heightening tension between Kensington Palace and the Sussexes comes after William was photographed in Istanbul celebrating Aston Villa’s Europa League victory with pals. These included Thomas van Straubenzee and Edward van Cutsem, who were close to both William and Harry as they were growing up.

It was seen as a sign of how the loyalties of the inner circle have been tested by Harry’s ongoing feud with his brother. In happier times Harry was often photographed at social occasions with the friends who now appear to have sided with William.

If the heir to the throne does confront his brother it would be a high risk strategy. He would be concerned that any private conversations with Harry would be publicised by the couple, who have become outspoken critics of the royal ‘institution’, as Meghan calls it.

So far William and Kate have shown restraint when it comes to the Sussex clan. Bar William’s comment that ‘We are very much not a racist family,’ they have deliberately avoided giving Harry the oxygen of publicity by responding to the Oprah interview, the Netflix documentary and Harry’s bombshell book Spare.

They have maintained a dignified silence and refused to be drawn into tit-for-tat public exchanges with the estranged couple.

William knows that confronting his brother over his behaviour would risk breaking this strategy of never complain, never explain.

Opinion polls provide proof that William and Kate have handled the whole Sussex drama with a dignity that is not wasted on the British public.

William and Kate have continued to ride high in popularity polls in sharp contrast to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who have seen their approval ratings plummet.

My source added, ‘It is obvious that William’s strategy of maintaining a silence has gone down well with the public. But there are increasing signs that Harry and his wife are continually crossing red lines laid down when they departed from royal life.

'It is not clear how much longer William and Kate can continue to ignore the elephant in the room.'

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Could King Charles's new garden achieve the impossible and reunite Princes William and Harry?

I only ask because I spotted a fascinating detail, which harks back to happier times between the now warring brothers.

The King has collaborated with Sir David Beckham, Alan Titchmarsh and horticulturist Frances Tophill to create the RHS and King's Foundation Curious Garden for the 2026 Chelsea Flower Show, held in London last month.

I was lucky enough to have a guided tour and absolutely loved it (particularly the colourful planting and the delphiniums, which are the King’s favourite).

But inside the oak-framed potting shed at its centre - described as a ‘museum of curiosities’ - was one very famous photograph. In a framed newspaper cutting was the then-Prince of Wales’s Christmas card from 1995.

Taken in his beloved Highgrove garden earlier that summer, it shows a smiling Prince Charles sitting on a bench.

Either side of him are two large terracotta urns - with a teenage William and Harry inside each one. The boys are grinning from ear to ear, and their dad seems to be laughing at their cheeky antics.

Nothing in the Curious Garden (so-called as it aims to spark curiosity in younger people for gardening) is there by accident. A duplicate of the Highgrove terracotta urns stands outside, while a lot of the curios inside speak to the creators’ families.

There’s some homemade Golden Beez honey by Becks and son Cruz, some Posh Pommes apple juice made by Victoria, a handwritten ode by Frances’ young nephew to RHS Chelsea dropping its long-standing gnome ban, a lovely watercolour by another of her nephews, and four gnomes - each one labelled after the collaborative garden family of King Charles III, Sir David, Alan and Frances.

So that happy Wales family picture - of William and Harry as brothers-in-arms before the death of their mum Princess Diana - is there for a reason. It’s a tribute to an earlier time.

I’d like to think it’s a silent wish - a plea, even - from a dad who wants his boys back together.

Wouldn’t it be great if William and Harry could bury the hatchet for the sake of their dad? After all, if the King can forgive and forget, shouldn’t they? Shouldn’t we?

Outside in the garden was a rose named after Sir David, and another after the King. Life is not always coming up roses. But maybe the princes could take a look at the joy in their father’s garden and turn over a new leaf.

This feature first appeared in Woman magazine. Subscribe now and get your first 6 issues for £1.

Donning a sombre and razor-sharp designer black suit, Meghan Markle looked dressed for business. Her speech on the devastating effect of social media on kids was emotional and entirely fair.

Behind her in Geneva’s Place des Nations was the Lost Screen Memorial - an installation of 50 illuminated light boxes, each showing the home-screen photograph of a child who lost their life to online harm.

No one could fault the sentiment.

"Children today are being shaped by systems designed to capture attention at any cost: relentless algorithms, exploitative engagement and endless exposure to harmful content that they are not seeking out."

Few parents would dispute that.

And yet… this was not just a message about the evils of the internet. This was the Duchess of Sussex trying to step back into serious public life.

After trying (and some would say failing) to be a lifestyle hostess on the Netflix show With Love, Meghan, selling us jam with her As Ever range and attempting to be a producer, Meghan was asking the world to take her seriously again.

Not as a duchess, not as a fashion horse, but as an advocate.

As someone close to her told me, "Of course she cares about these issues, as all parents do, particularly when she’s personally suffered so much trolling at the hands of social media and the internet.

"She has always held strong opinions and wants to use her platform to drive change."

Indeed, it wasn't so much her stepping back into the political space as much as the timing that surprised me.

For it came in the same week as the Princess of Wales had enjoyed a stunning return to international tours since her cancer diagnosis and treatment two years ago.

As one royal source sniped to me, "It’s almost as if the duchess can’t help herself. Catherine goes to Italy for her work in children’s early years, is greeted by adoring crowds wherever she goes and is feted to the rooftops.

"So then Meghan appears to try and do the same or go one better. I understand that she always saw the princess as a rival, but regardless, she always seems to have to make a point.

"Catherine is learning about best practice in children’s education, whereas Meghan is trying to take on the big tech companies."

The contrast couldn’t be more marked.

The princess drew genuine crowds - thousands filling the town square in Reggio Emilia, people craning out of windows shouting her name, the streets of a small Italian city brought to a complete halt.

She drew the crowds because of what she represents - the Royal Family.

Meghan, of course, left and for the past six years has been repeatedly telling us that she was silenced. She had so much to say, but according to her, the institution wouldn’t allow her to say it.

Now she wants to make a difference.

Yet it’s harder to take this repositioning seriously due to Meghan’s own use of her children on social media.

The day before she gave her speech, alongside Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the Director-General of the World Health Organization, she posted a picture of her daughter Lili, who’s about to turn five, to her 4.5 million followers.

Yes, the adorable redhead had her back to the camera and was sitting on the floor of Meghan’s walk-in wardrobe, surrounded by what looked like thousands of pounds worth of designer clothing (thought to be a Giorgio Armani blazer on the rail, dozens of high-end garments behind her, plus a pair of Dior heels and Manolo Blahniks on the floor).

The caption credited Lilibet as ‘Mama’s little helper’.

But this is something we’ve seen from Meghan time and time again.

A tease of her children’s faces - a side glimpse, a video of backs of heads in the pumpkin patch, emojis to conceal their faces at Disneyland, a family photo in the garden.

Normally in an apparent bid to drive business for her brand and lifestyle business (the candles are even numbered to mark her children’s dates of birth).

It seemed bizarre to me that Meghan would use her own four-year-old child to encourage interest on her huge social media platform, just as she was about to tell the world that big tech is preying on kids.

Driving engagement was key - and on the very social media platforms that Harry has described as being run by people who are ‘evil’ and ‘wicked’ and who ‘farm children’s minds’ for profit.

Harry has complained for years about his life being ‘commercialised’ since he was a teenager. Yet it seems Meghan is doing similar, I’d argue, to boost her brand.

Her kids have royal titles, have royal names and a monarch as a grandfather. The very thing she claims to hate is the thing she is using to promote herself.

No wonder she wanted to remind the world of her agenda for change.

This feature first appeared in Woman magazine. Subscribe now and get your first 6 issues for £1.

If you feel like you're falling out of love with your home, pick a room to makeover and give yourself a fresh new feeling.

Starting with the bathroom is a great idea - you'll hop in there first thing in the morning to get ready for the day ahead, and a perfectly balanced space will greet you.

What's more, with just a few clever touches and additions, it can feel like new without having to spend too much or work too hard.

3 on-trends buys to refresh your bathroom on a budget

You don't need to go and change everything to refresh your bathroom and create a space that feels relaxing, functional and still stylish. From changing the towels to adding a statement mirror, these transformative buys can elevate your bathroom decor in no time – and on a budget.

1. Pretty Pastels

Instil a sense of calm with a palette of soft pastels. Floral prints create a heritage feel, but brushed brass accents and scalloped details bring the look up to date.

Complete the feeling of curated comfort with sumptuous textiles and soothing scents. "Pastels are the perfect accent colour for bathrooms, because they feel like watered-down versions of bolder hues," says Tamara Kelly, w&H lifestyle editor.

"Soft sage greens and chalky pinks add a hint of colour to an otherwise neutral bathroom, without overwhelming the space."

2. Rustic Rodeo

Capture the spirit of ranch life with this Wild West-inspired trend.

Embrace a palette of chocolate browns, earthy greens and sandy tones and lasso your way to style success with whimsical patterns, from cow prints to cowboy motifs.

"Earthy tones are everywhere right now," says Tamara. "These grounded tones are ideal for bathrooms to make the space feel calm and serene," says Tamara.

"The cow print is a playful way to introduce pattern into the scheme. The monochrome element complements the muted colour palette of this trend."

3. Luxe Marble

Create a spa-like sanctuary at home by combining luxurious materials such as marble and metallic finishes. You don't need to splash the cash, either. Opt for gold-effect or brushed-brass accents and marble-patterned accessories.

"Marble continues to be a hugely popular choice for home accessories that feel luxe," Tamara explains. "Introducing touches of marble is an easy way to make a bathroom feel more expensive."

Take time out to unwind in a space that's both practical and stylish

Making small tweaks can go a long way to reinvigorate a bathroom, giving it a whole new look. No painting or decorating required, just a few affordable accessories to add a pop of seasonal colour.

Ready to see what the week ahead (June 2-8) has in store for you?

Our weekly horoscopes will help provide a guide for your next seven days. Our resident world-class psychic astrologers forecast for every star sign on love, family, career, and more. So check back weekly for our free forecast!

Weekly horoscope for June 2-8 2026

Aries weekly horoscope

Aries are born between March 21—April 19. Aries is the first fire sign in the zodiac, with the symbol of an Aries being a ram. Aries are typically passionate, confident, and motivated.

The ministry of false information is at work, making it difficult to separate truth from fiction. Then again, if you’re ready to be romanced, sit back and enjoy the trip.

Taurus weekly horoscope

Taurus' are born between April 20-May 20. Taurus is an earth sign, with the symbol of a Taurus being a bull. Taurians are typically hardworking, intelligent, and dedicated.

You usually have your feet on the ground but Neptune’s misty tentacles are all over your stars. It’s the kind of week when weird and rather wonderful things happen.

Gemini weekly horoscope

Geminis are born between May 21-June 21. Gemini is an air sign, with the symbol of a Gemini being twins. Geminis are typically easy-going, enthusiastic and sociable—but are said to have two sides to their personality.

Don’t be surprised if things don’t go quite according to plan, especially over the weekend. Someone you thought was rather dull could turn out to be full of surprises.

Cancer weekly horoscope

Cancers are born between June 21-July 22. Cancer is a water sign, with the symbol of a Cancer being a crab. Cancers are typically loyal, caring, and very protective over loved ones.

Things are far from clear at the moment, so don’t be tempted to buy into anything that doesn’t come with ironclad guarantees. Protect your assets, particularly your heart.

Leo weekly horoscope

Leos are born between July 23-August 22. Leo is a fire sign, with the symbol of a Leo being a Lion. Leos are typically confident, comfortable being the centre of attention, and big-hearted.

It’s a little too soon to put all your faith in someone or pile all your energies and resources into an endeavour. There is something you can’t see. Give things a bit more time.

Virgo weekly horoscope

Virgos are born between August 23-September 22. Virgo is an earth sign, with the symbol of a Virgo being a 'maiden'. Virgos are typically hardworking, reliable, and stubborn.

It will be easy to lose your way, whether you’re on your travels or dealing with a complicated situation. Go slowly and retrace your steps rather than blunder on blindly.

Libra weekly horoscope

Libras are born between September 23-October 22. Libra is an air sign, with the symbol of a Libra being scales. Libras are typically diplomatic, fair, and very sociable.

What you see is not necessarily what you get. This could be very good news in that a disappointment could turn out to have a silver lining. Avoid snap judgements.

Scorpio weekly horoscope

Scorpios are born between October 23-November 21. Scorpio is a water sign, with the symbol of a Scorpio being a scorpion. Scorpios are typically brave, determined, and ambitious.

Don’t lose sight of your dreams. However things look at the moment, they can and will change. And perhaps manifesting that dream means you have to change your tactics.

Sagittarius weekly horoscope

Sagittarius' are born between November 22-December 21. Sagittarius is a fire sign, with the symbol of a Sagittarius being a bow and arrow. Sagittarius' are typically optimistic, fun-loving, and intellectual.

People you meet for the first time could have a surprising effect on you. Attraction aside, who they are, what they do and how they view life could open up new possibilities.

Capricorn weekly horoscope

Capricorns are born between December 22-January 19. Capricorn is an earth sign, with the symbol of a Capricorn being a sea-goat. Capricorns are typically very hard-working, persistent, and sensitive.

Recollections may vary. You may have cause to remember these wise words in the coming week. Your version of events may differ from someone else’s. Agree to disagree.

Aquarius weekly horoscope

Aquarius' are born between January 20-February 18. Aquarius is an air sign, with the symbol of Aquarius being a water-bearer. Aquarians are typically assertive, analytical, and independent.

Life looks a lot better with rose-coloured spectacles on and through the lens of our hopes and dreams. Keep believing, and don’t let fear of failure hold you back.

Pisces weekly horoscope

Pisces' are born between February 19-March 20. Pisces is a water sign, with the symbol of Pisces being two fish. Pisces men and women are typically empathetic, romantic, and imaginative.

Keeping plans loose is one thing; not doing anything towards making something happen is the road to never-ever-land. If you fail to plan, you’re planning to fail!

Thousands met Queen Elizabeth throughout her reign but only a small circle got to see what she was like behind the scenes. Her granddaughter Zara's husband Mike Tindall was one of those few people who spent time with the Queen outside of the public eye but he still hugely regrets how long he "held back" with her.

"I was lucky enough to have the best seat in the house on 14 or 15 occasions when I sat next to the Queen. She was this icon and I knew she had so many stories, but I never asked," he told Emily Andrews in the July issue of woman&home. "For a long time I held back, and I always say that was my biggest regret."

After spending so long admiring her but not wanting to ask questions, Mike's relationship with the monarch became more "normal" after a lunch in Scotland.

He explained that he was sat beside Queen Elizabeth and because of the way things were laid out the retired rugby star ended up with two table legs in front of him. As Mike put it, "I sort of had to do a little man spread" either side of them - unbeknownst to his royal host.

"[T]hen the Queen stood up and started moving the tables closer together! And I said, 'Excuse me, Ma'am, but if you move those any closer, I'm going to be talking an octave higher,' and she burst out laughing," he continued.

Mike believes this was a "turning point" and made him realise he "didn't need to worry about what I said to her and the more normal, the better". Queen Elizabeth's sense of humour shone through in this potentially awkward situation and from then on, he felt comfortable enough to ask her questions like who her favourite Prime Minister was.

Having the Queen as your grandmother-in-law would naturally take some getting used to anyway and Mike has previously admitted he found protocols tricky initially.

"You do get used to it over time, but the trickiest part is the beginning when everything is new. All the protocols, they're a little daunting," he said, as per The Telegraph. "I stayed quiet for a long time, it is hard to pick what to talk about. The first time you sit next to the Queen at a dinner table, it is a nerve-racking experience."

He and Zara Tindall married in Scotland in July 2011 and even after becoming a married-in member of the Royal Family he still addressed the Queen as Ma'am or Your Majesty, whilst Zara apparently just called her Granny.

The pair were very close and shared a passion for equestrianism. Zara's silver medal in the London 2012 Olympics was celebrated in such a sweet way by her grandmother, who was reportedly too anxious to watch her compete in the eventing live.

Former royal protection officer Richard Griffin told Sky News in 2022 that Queen Elizabeth suggested they go out for a picnic at Balmoral because she was "just so nervous". Later he radioed in and found out Zara was an Olympic silver medal winner - much to her granny's delight.

"I remember the Queen just grabbed me and we were dancing around in circles on this hill in Scotland,' Griffin said. "That's a memory that will stay with me for evermore."

At 61 Coleen Nolan has embarked on a new, daunting challenge - dating on screen.

This year, the twice-married star got to know herself better and showed her vulnerability as she unpacked her relationship history on Celebs Go Dating.

Describing the show as a "learning curve”, Coleen opened up on feeling sexier than ever at 61, how dating again unlocked new confidence within her, and why she hopes Loose Women friend Ruth Langsford will follow her in appearing on the show.

While dating can be daunting in itself, dating on screen could be a step too far for some, but Coleen shares, "I’ve loved it. It is a therapy session, basically, with the agents. I’ve never been scared to be open.

"I just think, ‘How can someone help you if you’re not going to be open to them and let them in?’ [I talked about] my marriages, things in the past, really personal, private things."

When asked what the show and experience has taught her, she replies "Confidence, definitely on the dating front. I don’t think I’ll ever be as nervous again".

"They’ve taught me to be transparent, which I wasn't. I was always not wanting to hurt someone's feelings. It's unlocked that being transparent doesn't mean you're being mean. I'm too long in the tooth to waste time by pussyfooting around.

"If we get on and there's a connection, great. And if we don't, that's fine. It doesn't mean either of us is bad. It just means we're not connected, and that's OK.

"I put up with so much s**t for so long. Once I actually wake up, and it happened certainly with marriages, where I woke up and thought, ‘I’m done,’ I was never going back and I’d never let them do it again.

"But then, I’d walk into another relationship and do the same thing. It’s a vicious circle, really. So I’m getting very aware of that now, thanks to the experts. I feel like I might find somebody now and I’m taking all I’ve learned into my next relationship."

This is perhaps why Coleen revealed she'd love to see her friend and co-star Ruth Langsford - who split from Eamonn Holmes, her partner of 27 years, in 2024 - to take part.

"I’d love to see her on the show! I’d just love her to meet someone gorgeous that she deserves. I think she’s a way off though. I couldn’t have done that straight after my divorce. No way.

“For four years after I got divorced, the last thing I wanted was anyone. I loved my freedom. And I think Ruth might feel like that."

Coleen’s newfound confidence is also down to her weight loss journey, having lost over three stone in 2026 which she has documented on her social media pages and in interviews.

"It definitely has given me more confidence. It’s opened my world of clothes massively. Before, I’d put things on and go, ‘That’ll do.’ Whereas now I go, ‘Oh, God, that looks nice,’ or ‘That looks hot.’ I’ve never thought that before.

“I’m hot! The experts have told me to keep saying that to myself. And I said to them, ‘I have been saying it for a while, but I meant in the menopause.’

"I feel much more confident and I think that’s down to feeling better physically and liking more what I see."

From dating to feeling hot, Coleen’s new chapter couldn’t come at a better time. She shared, "In my mid-50s, I took a massive downward spiral. I hated my 50s.

"I think a lot of it was hormonal, I went through terrible empty nest syndrome and terrible depression. [It was like] nature basically said to me, 'You’re done. You can die now because you’re surplus to requirements.' I also got out of a couple of long but stressful relationships, which didn’t help."

But life in her 60s has never been better. "Then I got to 60 and I got my dream, which was to buy a little smallholding for all my animals. And I thought, ‘Oh, my God. It feels like my life is just beginning.'

"I think the hormone thing calmed down a bit and I just got this life is too short to sit there and waste away and go ‘I’m just waiting to die now,’ attitude.

"I’m not. I’m going to live it right until my last breath. I’m 61 and feeling sexy. I’m definitely not giving up on romance or sex!"

This feature first appeared in Woman magazine. Subscribe now and get your first 6 issues for £1.

What a star the Princess of Wales was on her first tour abroad since her cancer diagnosis. Looking utterly elegant during the two-day visit to Reggio Emilia in northern Italy, Catherine reminded us all how much she has been missed on the international stage.

She was greeted by wildly cheering and clapping crowds - many of whom had sweetly worn hats and fascinators in the mistaken belief there was a dress code - which demonstrated what immense power she wields.

Not just the well-documented 'Kate effect' for her fashion – although I’m sure the gorgeous cornflower-blue Edeline Lee suit and pinstripe Blazé Milano jacket had us all madly googling RepliKates.

Princess Catherine's Italy fashion

A Kensington Palace aide said it was 'undoubtedly a huge moment' for her since she announced her cancer remission last year.

Catherine's visit focused on the city's acclaimed approach to early education, a cause she has long championed through her work with the Royal Foundation Centre for Early Childhood.

There were cute pictures of her chatting to kids and trying some Italian (she lived in Florence on her gap year as an 18-year-old).

But there was also a diplomatic aspect to her visit. Italy has been a key ally for the UK, and visited twice by the King and Queen in the past couple of years.

Catherine was awarded the city's highest honour - the Primo Tricolore - for her work on early childhood and looked genuinely moved as Reggio Emilia's mayor read out all her achievements.

She was seen placing a hand to her heart as she listened, and replied, 'Wow, what an honour. I’m very grateful.'

But I did wonder about the timing of another, wannabe diplomatic salvo...

Kate's trip had been announced in advance and well covered. So I was rather surprised that Prince Harry chose day two of her tour to publish a first-person opinion piece on 'My fears for a divided kingdom' (referring to the UK).

Given that one thing Harry is remembered for is dressing up in a Nazi costume (he admits this was one of the 'biggest mistakes' of his life), I was equally surprised that he was lecturing us all about anti-Semitism.

Frankly, I agreed with him on the subject (and, as he acknowledged, we can all change).

But what I thought a little odd was his timing and the fact he thought his warnings on anti-Semitism and anti-Muslim hatred were so vital given he hasn't lived in the UK for the last six years.

In comparison, the King visited Golders Green in north-west London, where two Jewish men had been stabbed, in solidarity with the community.

To cries of 'God save the King', thousands turned up to see him and shake his hand. He didn't need to lecture - he just had to be there.

This feature first appeared in Woman magazine. Subscribe now and get your first 6 issues for £1.

Can the feud between Prince William and Prince Harry ever be solved? Certainly, it's King Charles’s wish that peace should reign. And now, I understand that he has tasked his right-hand man with trying to broker peace between the warring brothers.

Essentially, he wants what most fathers would want - his sons to be on speaking terms. And if that means asking William to forgive Harry for what he has done, then so be it.

It has been reported that Charles’s deputy private secretary Theo Rycroft has made it his ‘number one mission’ to reunite Harry and William.

Quite how he’s going to do that remains unclear.

But it would certainly make it much easier for the King to see Harry - and, indeed, attend the Invictus Games next year in Birmingham - if his two sons were at least on texting terms. The brothers, once so close, haven’t spoken for years.

I broke the story that they had first fallen out over William's well-meant warning to Harry that he didn't need to rush things with his then-girlfriend Meghan Markle. Harry ignored the advice, and things went from bad to worse, with the result that the Sussexes walked away from royal life, with a lot of public acrimony, in January 2020.

It was just after the Duke of Edinburgh’s funeral in 2021 that Harry asked William and the then-Prince Charles to meet him privately in the grounds of Windsor Castle.

Just a month earlier, Harry and Meghan had given their incendiary interview to Oprah Winfrey, claiming royal ‘concerns’ over their baby Archie’s skin colour, emotional abandonment and that they’d been cut off financially. Harry went on to say that his brother and father were ‘trapped’ within the royal system, unable to leave as he did.

Punchy stuff. Some may say unforgivable. The late Queen memorably responded by saying, ‘recollections may vary.’

So when Harry, William and Charles did meet, in an attempt to clear the air, Harry writes in his autobiography, Spare, that he and William ‘began sniping’ and it got so heated that ‘Pa raised his hands.’ Standing between them, pleading, Charles said, 'Please, boys - don’t make my final years a misery.'

Harry then, in my opinion, frames the whole writing of Spare as a letter to his father and ‘my beloved brother, my arch-nemesis’ on why he left the UK and the Royal Family.

After the book’s publication in 2023, William felt utterly betrayed, as it went much further than Harry and Meghan's Oprah and then Netflix bombshells.

Old scores were rehashed, and a huge amount of new detail was given about William and Catherine's falling-out with Harry and Meghan, along with accusations aplenty that the Sussexes were victims in all of this - hung out to dry by both the establishment and William.

William reportedly banned any mention of Harry and Meghan, not wanting to get involved in their drama. Then the Princess of Wales was diagnosed with cancer in early 2024, meaning both she and William concentrated on their own immediate family to literally survive its devastating effects.

I understand that Harry tried to privately reach out to his brother via text and WhatsApp, but never received any reply. He then stopped trying.

For a period, Charles too didn’t speak to Harry. But then, I understand, conversations resumed last year - and the King invited Harry to tea at Clarence House in September.

Since then, I’m told they speak on the phone every so often. The King also occasionally speaks to and video-calls his Sussex grandchildren Archie, seven, and Lili, four, whom he has only met a couple of times.

So it makes sense that while Charles’s elder son is still holding a massive grudge and has refused his father’s pleading to make up, a diplomat may hold the key.

Theo Rycroft is an Oxford-educated lawyer who joined the Foreign Office in 2005 and has held a string of senior international roles including legal adviser to the Prime Minister, head of international and EU law at the Attorney General’s Office, and deputy head of mission at the British Embassy in Paris.

It is understood that Theo has made it his ambition to reunite Princes William and Harry, with a source saying that he believes the situation has become ‘ridiculous’ and is keen to resolve it.

He’s worked with William before, on several high-profile international engagements, including the prince’s hugely scrutinised trip for the reopening of Notre-Dame Cathedral (when he also met Donald Trump).

Certainly, I’ve always thought that William needs, at the very least, a working relationship with his brother by the time he becomes King.

But after all the betrayal, whether Mr Rycroft is the one to achieve William’s forgiveness remains to be seen.

This feature first appeared in Woman magazine. Subscribe now and get your first 6 issues for £1.

Despite the number of royal guests at Prince Harry and Meghan's wedding, the Duchess's anniversary throwback photos only featured one of them. King Charles can be seen standing in St George's Chapel to the left of Meghan in the third of the daytime pictures taken by photographer Chris Allerton.

As he wasn't the main focus of the snap, you could easily think this was a coincidence but royal expert and author Ingrid Seward believes otherwise. She thinks Meghan's choice speaks volumes about how she's feeling about her father-in-law and her and Harry's place in the Royal Family.

"Meghan doesn't do anything without purpose, so she's sending a message, isn't she?," Ingrid claimed to The Mirror. "The message is, 'We're still very much part of your family.'"

She continued, "That's what Harry and Meghan need because I don't think they knew when they cut themselves off - with Harry's book and the Oprah interview - just how alienated they were going to be."

King Charles is the head of the family and he and Prince Harry met face-to-face last year for tea at Clarence House, which some hoped could be the start of a tentative reconciliation. Meghan's relationship with her father-in-law isn't scrutinised as often as his bond with his sons, but Ingrid described the King as "very caring towards her".

According to the royal expert, the pair's relationship at the beginning "meant a lot to Meghan". This was reflected in his special role at the Sussexes' wedding, where he partially walked his daughter-in-law down the aisle instead of her father Thomas.

She walked down the first half of the aisle alone before King Charles joined her from the Quire until she reached her husband-to-be at the altar. In her and Harry's Netflix series, Harry & Meghan, the Duchess described how this came about.

"Harry's dad is very charming and I said to him, 'I've lost my dad in this'," Meghan shared. "Him as my father-in-law is very important to me, so I asked him to walk me down the aisle."

Meanwhile, Harry said in the documentary, Prince, Son And Heir: Charles at 70, that his dad "immediately" said "I'll do whatever Meghan needs and I'm here to support you". So much has happened since then and she and Charles last saw each other in person at Queen Elizabeth's funeral which was both a very sad and very public occasion.

Writing in the latest issue of Woman, Royal Editor Emily Andrews says that since Harry's tea at Clarence House, she's told father and son "speak on the phone every so often".

"The King also occasionally speaks to and video-calls his Sussex grandchildren Archie, seven, and Lili, four, whom he has only met a couple of times," Emily claims.

Duchess Meghan's public "message" that they're still part of the family is particularly interesting given how open Harry's been about wanting to reconcile with the royals. It's a subtle detail that could actually be very significant, hinting she's aligned with her husband on building bridges with King Charles.

In public the Royal Family are perfectly poised, but moments when we see them let their guard down really paint a picture of the people behind the titles. Nicknames are another way they show their personalities and there have been some memorable ones - Prince Philip calling Queen Elizabeth "cabbage" springs to mind.

Low-key royal couple Zara and Mike Tindall also have pet names and I was surprised when the retired rugby star revealed what his wife calls him. In woman&home's July issue, on sale now, he explains to the magazine's Royal Editor Emily Andrews that "if it's nicknames, it's Z and Mikey-T".

Mikey-T is brilliant, with a musician-esque ring to it and when they're not using these specific names, they both call each other "munchin" too.

For two royals who are known for not taking themselves too seriously, I couldn't think of a perfect set of nicknames - even if I'd never have predicted the musician-esque moniker "Mikey-T". Mike was asked by Emily how he juggles the eternal work-life balance and although he admits it "can be stressful" now they've had kids, a sense of fun is important.

"You're trying to do everything all at once, and that's hard. But you find a way. The whole point is to find a way and get it done while having fun at the same time. That's what we try to do anyway," he says, adding, "You've always got to see the funny side!"

Zara said something very similar at the 2025 Beauty Awards, confessing, "Nothing runs smoothly ever. You've got to accept that in life. It's a work-in-progress [but] you've got to have fun."

The couple will be celebrating their 15th wedding anniversary in July and are proud parents to Mia (12), Lena (7) and Lucas (5). Mike tells Emily his daughters are following in their mum's footsteps with horse-riding, though it's "not a sport [he's] good at".

The retired rugby star is much more of a fan of golf nowadays and recently played in the 2026 ISPS Handa Mike Tindall Celebrity Golf Classic tournament. Held every year, it raises money for two amazing charities, Cure Parkinson's and The Matt Hampton Foundation.

Mike is also known for co-hosting the podcast, The Good, The Bad & The Rugby, and it was on an episode of this that he described the way Lucas was welcomed into the world in 2021. Unusually for a royal baby, the Tindalls' son was born in the bathroom at their Gatcombe Park home.

"Arrived very quickly. Didn't make it to hospital. On the bathroom floor," Mike shared. "So yeah, it was running to the gym, get a mat, get into the bathroom, get the mat on the floor, towels down, brace, brace, brace."

Zara's friend Dolly Maude realised they wouldn't have reached the hospital in time and thankfully the midwife wasn't far, so she was soon there and the second midwife followed shortly after.

When Mike Tindall appeared on I'm a Celebrity…Get Me Out of Here! Zara wrote her husband a sweet letter which revealed that the whole family often go by their initials, not just her, as she signed it off "Z, M, L and L".

Read Emily Andrews' full interview with Mike Tindall in woman&home's July issue, on sale now.

We know how much woman&home readers love books – the escape they offer, the way they make us feel seen and how they help us better understand the world around us. That’s why we’re launching Reading For All, a special six-month challenge celebrating the joy of reading and encouraging more people to discover the benefits books can bring.

And we’d love you to get involved in a few really simple ways:

• 1) Share a book you love and tell us why it matters – whether it made you laugh, cry, think or simply offered a much-needed escape
• 2) Recommend it to a friend or family member
• 3) Post a photo or video about your favourite book and tag @womanandhome using the hashtag #WHReadingForAll.

We’ll be sharing our favourite recommendations throughout the campaign, because you never know how much joy one book can bring.

Reading For All is part of the government’s National Year of Reading 2026 initiative, which aims to encourage the nation to ‘Go All In’ on reading. Bestselling authors including Richard Osman, Julia Donaldson and Dermot O’Leary are among those supporting the campaign and sharing their own passion for books and storytelling.

Research continues to show that reading is far more than a pastime. Studies reveal it can keep your mind sharp, improve confidence and self-esteem, reduce stress by up to 68%, and even help with sleep and loneliness. Reading to children has also been linked to greater happiness, stronger educational outcomes and increased empathy. Yet despite these benefits, 40% of us haven’t read or listened to a book in the past year.

Throughout the challenge, we’ll set monthly prompts and share inspiration for different types of readers – from time-pressed women to reluctant teens – helping make reading feel fun, accessible, and rewarding.

We’re also delighted to have bestselling author Veronica Henry as our Reading For All ambassador.

‘Reading is a priceless luxury, providing comfort, escape and inspiration wherever you are and whenever you like,’ says Veronica. ‘The only limit is your own imagination.’

So grab a book, share a recommendation, and invite someone else to discover the magic of reading too.

Ready to see what the week ahead (May 26-June 1) has in store for you?

Our weekly horoscopes will help provide a guide for your next seven days. Our resident world-class psychic astrologers forecast for every star sign on love, family, career, and more. So check back weekly for our free forecast!

Weekly horoscope for May 26-June 1 2026

Aries weekly horoscope

Aries are born between March 21—April 19. Aries is the first fire sign in the zodiac, with the symbol of an Aries being a ram. Aries are typically passionate, confident, and motivated.

Getting from one place to another, whether in travel or in understanding, is going to be complicated. Look for alternatives before setting out. Avoid panic actions.

Taurus weekly horoscope

Taurus' are born between April 20-May 20. Taurus is an earth sign, with the symbol of a Taurus being a bull. Taurians are typically hardworking, intelligent, and dedicated.

Authority figures are not always right, but to argue with one under these influences is not going to end well. Bide your time – the situation can be reversed.

Gemini weekly horoscope

Geminis are born between May 21-June 21. Gemini is an air sign, with the symbol of a Gemini being twins. Geminis are typically easy-going, enthusiastic and sociable—but are said to have two sides to their personality.

Sunday’s Full Moon brings the curtain down on a situation that has been some months in the making. It is time to celebrate a union or to go your separate ways.

Cancer weekly horoscope

Cancers are born between June 21-July 22. Cancer is a water sign, with the symbol of a Cancer being a crab. Cancers are typically loyal, caring, and very protective over loved ones.

Things may look a lot gloomier than they are. People aren’t criticising you or backing out of an arrangement. They just need more time to get their heads around things.

Leo weekly horoscope

Leos are born between July 23-August 22. Leo is a fire sign, with the symbol of a Leo being a Lion. Leos are typically confident, comfortable being the centre of attention, and big-hearted.

Whatever the blot on your horizon, it won’t last long. However formidable the challenge, once you start working on it, it will get easier and easier. Lighten up.

Virgo weekly horoscope

Virgos are born between August 23-September 22. Virgo is an earth sign, with the symbol of a Virgo being a 'maiden'. Virgos are typically hardworking, reliable, and stubborn.

It could be the weather getting in the way of your perfect plans or someone might not be pulling their weight. Work with what you’ve got and all will be well.

Libra weekly horoscope

Libras are born between September 23-October 22. Libra is an air sign, with the symbol of a Libra being scales. Libras are typically diplomatic, fair, and very sociable.

Other people may not be in the mood to cooperate and a deal may not be possible right now, especially where money is concerned. Give it two weeks and try again.

Scorpio weekly horoscope

Scorpios are born between October 23-November 21. Scorpio is a water sign, with the symbol of a Scorpio being a scorpion. Scorpios are typically brave, determined, and ambitious.

Scorpios are fearless but even you don’t need to take on another battle, especially when you run the risk of losing. Aim to please and settle for what you can get. Don’t push it.

Sagittarius weekly horoscope

Sagittarius' are born between November 22-December 21. Sagittarius is a fire sign, with the symbol of a Sagittarius being a bow and arrow. Sagittarius' are typically optimistic, fun-loving, and intellectual.

The only Full Moon in Sagittarius takes place on Sunday, so make the most of your super power. Relationships can be made or broken at this time. The choice is yours.

Capricorn weekly horoscope

Capricorns are born between December 22-January 19. Capricorn is an earth sign, with the symbol of a Capricorn being a sea-goat. Capricorns are typically very hard-working, persistent, and sensitive.

Capricorns are realists, which doesn’t mean you don’t have dreams and yearnings. For now, however, reality is all. Make a decision based on the facts, not on maybes and mights.

Aquarius weekly horoscope

Aquarius' are born between January 20-February 18. Aquarius is an air sign, with the symbol of Aquarius being a water-bearer. Aquarians are typically assertive, analytical, and independent.

You have given a situation enough time to right itself, and if there are no signs of improvement, have the courage to walk. There are echoes of late January here.

Pisces weekly horoscope

Pisces' are born between February 19-March 20. Pisces is a water sign, with the symbol of Pisces being two fish. Pisces men and women are typically empathetic, romantic, and imaginative.

If you can afford to make a major investment, whether of your time, money or your heart, do so. If the numbers don’t stack up, it’s not worth risking it.

Nuts are perhaps one of the most underrated foods in our diets overall. Not only are they delicious and versatile, going just as well in a smoothie as a salad, but they are rich in fibre and protein, with plenty of additional health benefits.

It's no surprise that NHS GP and woman&home's resident doctor, Dr Amir Khan, is a fan of including all types in your diet, if you can. However, he says there is one nut that stands "heads and shoulders above the rest when it comes to health benefits," and that's the "humble walnut".

These wrinkled brown shells are rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a type of fatty omega-3 acid, which is why the doctor is such a fan. He says ALAs are like "little health gems", explaining that "with each gram of ALA you eat every day, you lower your risk of dying from heart disease by 10%".

A 1oz (28g) serving of walnuts contains about 2.5g of ALA, which is a healthy amount to consume daily.

Benefits of walnuts

1. May help improve brain health

Research has shown that eating walnuts regularly can help us take care of our brains by reducing our risk, delaying the onset, and slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.

A study in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease found that mice that ate the equivalent of 1-1.5oz of walnuts per day showed significant improvements in memory, learning ability, anxiety, and motor development compared to those without walnuts in their diet.

2. Great for gut health

Walnuts are also a food to prioritise if you want to improve your gut health. A study in Nutrients examined the impact of eating walnuts daily for eight weeks. It found that an intake of 43g of walnuts every day “significantly affects the gut microbiome by enhancing probiotic- and butyric acid-producing species in healthy individuals”.

Butyric acid, or butanoic acid, is created through the fermentation of dietary fibre by gut bacteria, and it plays a significant role in our gut health.

3. May help prevent certain diseases

There isn't a food that can prevent anyone from getting cancer. However, some foods - such as walnuts - contain nutrients that have an overall positive effect on the body, which may help lower the risk very fractionally.

There is evidence that compounds found in the nut, such as ellagitannins, melatonin and gamma-tocopherol, may each work in different ways to reduce oxidative stress, inflammation, and gene expression, which are risk factors for cancer.

The flora in our gut turns ellagitannins into urolithins, which can improve our mitochondrial function and provide anti-tumour effects. Other foods high in these compounds include berries like strawberries and raspberries, and pomegranates.

4. May aid weight loss

Walnuts are very filling as they are rich in protein and fibre - two macronutrients that are slower to digest than others (like carbohydrates).

Some people may worry that their fat content and calories could lead to weight gain, but in fact, studies have shown they are positively associated with weight loss, if eaten in moderation. Almonds, Brazil nuts and cashews all have similar benefits, too.

How many walnuts should you eat?

Dr Khan recommends eating 10 to 12 walnut halves a day. You can eat them as a snack, add them to your yoghurt or porridge at breakfast, put them in a salad at lunch, or bake them into bread or muffins.

He also suggests eating them alongside blueberries, which are rich in polyphenols. These compounds help reduce stress and inflammation in the body, and have similar brain and heart benefits to walnuts. “Eating them together matters because fat improves the absorption of many beneficial plant compounds,” says Dr Khan. He says walnuts also slow digestion, so when they’re eaten with blueberries, it causes a smaller blood sugar spike than if you just ate the fruit on its own.

“There’s also a brilliant brain angle,” he adds. “Blueberries help protect brain cells from oxidative damage, while walnuts support cell membranes and communication between neurones.” Pairing these foods is a “small habit that can make a meaningful difference over time" and help improve your brain health.

This advice from Dr Amir Khan first appeared in print editions of woman&home magazine. Buy your copy here.

A stalwart of stage and screen for most of her life, Dame Helen Mirren is an icon of our times. An Oscar-winner for her role in 2006 film The Queen - playing, of course, the late Queen Elizabeth II - she continues to be at the top of her game in recent roles on the likes of Mobland and The Thursday Murder Club.

But away from her career, the actor, who will soon turn 81, does worry about the state of the world today, and is concerned about the forces who want to turn the tide against the progress women have made.

Speaking in the July issue of woman&home, Helen says, ‘Misogyny, hatred and fear of women is always lurking and waiting to raise its head. And it’s raising its head again, through the manosphere and the religious right, whatever religion that is.

‘But parallel to that, you have more women in American law schools than men, and in my lifetime I have seen amazing change. The world expert on marine life comes on the television and it’s a woman!

‘But the forces that want to drag women back down and shut them up are always there, and I worry it’s rising again.’

However, she does remain positive. ‘I’m also hoping that women have come too far now, we can’t be pulled back down,’ she adds, and is excited to see what happens next. ‘What keeps me positive? The excitement of life. The development of life is extraordinary. On the one hand, amazing things happen, and then there are also constants that never change. It’s interesting to watch the new things bash against each other, or work with each other or fight each other. It’s incredible to witness.’

And in addition to an incredible back catalogue of work, Helen is now working on a passion project behind-the-scenes. With the help of friends in the south of Italy, where she and husband Taylor Hackford spend a lot of time, they are working together to fight a battle against a disease ruining the ancient olive groves of the region.

Xylella fastidiosa is a slow-burning disease, which came in through a port and has slowly been destroying groves that have been around for generations. With a group of locals, Helen and Taylor set up a campaign called Save The Olives, aiming to bring attention to the issue to a global audience.

‘There is a fix to help these wonderful trees, but it’s a slow fix. We graft them. In grafting you have to cut these ancient trees right back, then you graft, and two or three years later, they begin to grow. It’s not an immediate fix but it does at least save some of them.

We are also working with experts to develop species that can be immune. The olive oil company Filippo Berio is now working with us, which is massive, and we are working towards creating more Xylella-resistant species – it’s the way forward,’ she reveals.

Helen has a huge love for Italy going back decades, when she first began to learn Italian while starring in the film Caligula back in the late 1970s.

And she believes her background as the daughter of an immigrant - her father was part of the exiled Russian nobility and she was born Ilyena Lydia Mironoff, while her mother was English and born in east London - is one of the reasons she feels so comfortable in the region.

‘There are many things I love about Italy. The history, the culture, the beauty. But in the end, it’s about people. The people of Salento are very different from the people in Milan, but there is a bond that ties them all together, and that’s to do with family, food and the love of community.

‘I’m the daughter of an immigrant, and our family has always slightly floated on the surface of community because we were never quite sure where we fitted. In Italy, there is this profound feeling of belonging to the culture, to the history and the traditions. That’s what I truly love about it, plus the generosity of spirit. If you’re paying for something and they’re giving you the change, they always round it up! And then very often they’ll give you a present, a little keychain or something – it’s in the culture. It makes you feel a part of it.’

The Met Gala is fashion's biggest night. Held at New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art, it's a red-carpet roll call of who's in (and who's out).

Earlier this month, the A-list turned out in force: Beyoncé, Nicole Kidman, Rihanna, Zoë Kravitz, Margot Robbie, Blake Lively, Madonna - the list goes on.

But there was one name missing - Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex.

It was hugely surprising on two counts. The first because she's just launched herself as a fashion influencer (selling her 'look' online), and the second because two of her besties, Katy Perry and Serena Williams, were also there.

What better way to advertise her brand than by hobnobbing with the great, the good and every fashion designer worth their sequins?

But I believe the reason she wasn't invited is that she's reportedly upset the most powerful woman in fashion: Dame Anna Wintour, Vogue supremo and inspiration for The Devil Wears Prada.

Anna is a huge royalist, supported the King and Queen on their US state visit and was reportedly not amused by Meghan and Harry's bashing of the Royal Family.

It's she who is responsible for the guest list (incidentally, she has invited the Princess of Wales several times, but Kate has always gracefully declined) and she did not extend an invitation to Meghan.

And that's not the only door that's shutting. It was once rumoured that Meghan was hopeful of high-end fashion house Dior signing her (for big bucks) as an ambassador, but that did not happen.

And despite Meghan inviting herself to Balenciaga's Paris show last autumn, with her spokespeople gushing that she was a long-time friend of creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli, that brand has not signed her either.

One source said, '[Harry and Meghan] have truly lost the plot. I hear she's spiralling badly because she knows nothing is working. The whole thing about her [As Ever] stuff selling out isn't true any more. I don't think either of them are happy.'

I'm told other high-profile friends who could have helped them have also walked away due to their unfortunate habit of falling out with everyone.

Netflix chief Ted Sarandos was said to have 'grown weary' of the couple and, according to Hollywood bible Variety, reportedly said he would not sit for a call with Meghan without a lawyer on the line (Netflix has denied this).

Even when he and wife Nicole Avant posed for pictures with Meghan at a Netflix event, after the unflattering Variety piece, many of them mysteriously disappeared from the picture agency. Word on the street was that Meghan was unhappy with how she looked.

Pictures, again, were a source of dispute with the über-influential Kardashians.

After Kim and her mum Kris Jenner posted, then deleted, pictures of Harry and Meghan at Kris' 70th birthday party, the Kardashians were said to be furious about the Sussex briefings that they had not agreed to public pictures.

The reality was that Harry was unhappy because it was Remembrance Day weekend in the UK, and he worried that it looked disrespectful to be partying while all the other royals were solemnly remembering our war dead at the Royal Albert Hall.

As if to cement their persona non grata status, the couple were absent from all of King Charles' engagements in America.

President Trump reinforced their unpopularity when he said that there are 'too many things' stopping Harry returning to the family fold, adding, 'That wife of his. Boy, what she's done to that guy.'

Another source in their orbit claims the pair are 'wildly unhappy'. It's clear that many of their projects have not gone to plan. Perhaps they want different things work-wise?

Harry reportedly even wants to move to the solitude of Montana. Meghan is carefully watching their spend, while Harry is thought to lack 'basic awareness' of what things cost, having been brought up in a palace with no bills to pay.

I've reported before on their expensive lifestyle - and how they've recently gutted their Sussex operation. From 16 full-time staff, they are now down to a chief of staff each, a charity consultant, two TV executives, a communications chief in the UK and a press agency, Sunshine Sachs Morgan & Lylis, in the USA.

It's ironic that apparently one of the main reasons Meghan wanted to leave the UK was that she discovered that Prince William would ultimately fund them. Once she found out that, as King, William would be responsible for how much money they received, she apparently wanted out.

But Harry clearly misses the UK, his family and being a working royal. As I reported last week, he still thinks he is one, yet is making a buck at the same time. The path appears to be set - 'working royal' engagements plus commercial ventures that will lean on their status.

For, as one associate said, 'They don't have a choice at this point. They really need the money.'

Imagine you’re the only woman in a train carriage at night, with a few men seated around you. How comfortable would you feel? Would you feel safe? Maybe you would - after all, ‘not all men’ are bad - but what about if you knew that 62 million of them potentially are?

Because that’s the number of people globally who have accessed a website that hosts disturbing content including ‘sleep pornography’, which involves men assaulting women while they ‘sleep’ or appear to be drugged.

While it isn’t clear how many have accessed this specific content, the fact that 62 million people have visited a site hosting videos of this nature is troubling enough.

A recent CNN exposé lifted the lid on online ‘rape academies’ – chat rooms and websites where predominantly men engage in discussions framed as lessons on how to become sexual predators, sometimes targeting their own partners. They share tips on which meds to use to drug women so they can rape them while they’re passed out – often filming it for strangers to watch online.

It sounds sickeningly similar to the case of Dominique Pelicot and 50 other men who were found guilty in 2024 of the drug-facilitated rape and abuse of his wife Gisèle in France.

We were all horrified, and hoped it was an isolated case. But now the CNN report has many questioning the men we encounter in everyday life, and maybe even those closest to us.

Because it seems that, though the website Pelicot’s followers used was shut down, countless predators have simply moved to other channels. Shielded by the anonymity of the internet, they find a sense of community with others who share their sick fantasies, helping them normalise abuse.

And while it isn’t clear how many of the 62 million are men, much of the content seems to be aimed at them. Think of yourself in that train carriage again - is it any wonder so many of us don't feel safe?

Amelia Handy, head of policy and public affairs at Rape Crisis, says: "This investigation confirms yet again that women and girls live within a rape culture, where predatory men perpetrate extraordinary harm and support others in doing so.

"So-called sleep pornography is quite simply rape and platforms that promote this content must face considerable penalties and be shut down for doing so."

The fact that people have accessed such websites and disgusting content is terrifying, regardless of whether their intention was to act on the ‘lessons’ or because they were ‘curious’.

But even worse is that, despite us all knowing good men - partners, sons, friends, brothers, fathers - if that many people have visited such a site, there may be someone we know who has viewed it.

So why do so many men not only do just that but, as in the Pelicot case, ‘opt in’ to the invitation to commit acts of rape and sexual assault?

Psychotherapist and former Rape Crisis counsellor Susie Masterson MBACP says, 'The foundation stems from male entitlement: an internalised belief in some men that sexual access is a right. Viewed through this lens, we can start to appreciate how the concept of consent is overlooked.

'This deeply embedded belief - stemming from what society tells us we should think or feel, encoded in some men’s brains and in many places enshrined in law - is in my view the most pernicious and harmful threat to women.’

Add to that the fact they can find like-minded individuals online, and the results are terrifying.

'The sense of belonging and validation from sharing views and influencing others is potent,’ Susie adds. ‘It has the potential to fuel motivation and accelerate execution, leading more men to commit rape.’

The sheer numbers visiting these sites adds another layer to the threat we as women experience in our daily lives.

We’re used to looking over our shoulder when we walk down a quiet street, taking extra care if we go anywhere alone at night, but this investigation is a stark reminder that the stranger in the dark alley isn’t always the biggest threat, it could be those we know, even those we love.

Katie White, co-founder of Enough, a non-profit focused on survivor support and rape prevention, says: ‘Cases of drug-facilitated sexual assault are assumed to be rare, but just like the wider rape epidemic, they are far more common than people realise.

'Drug-facilitated sexual assault sits within a broader pattern of abuse that is often misunderstood; nearly 85% of rape is committed by someone known to the victim, yet the dominant narrative still focuses on strangers.’

This gap between perception and reality delays recognition and reporting. Katie adds, ‘Many people struggle to identify what has happened because it doesn’t match what they’ve been taught to expect. It’s not always strangers we should worry about but people we share our lives with.’

And while any abuse is devastating, it can be even more complicated in these circumstances. ‘We’ve supported survivors harmed by partners or trusted individuals, and even when they discover the truth, the emotional impact can be complex,’ says Katie.

‘One survivor described feeling intense guilt at the thought of reporting someone she loved. That conflict is common, and it’s one of the reasons many cases never come to light.’

So what can we do to tackle this trend?

‘We need to be more honest about the reality of sexual violence,’ Katie explains. ‘It is often minimised or misrepresented, leaving people unprepared to recognise the risks and unclear on how to act if it happens. The way these men speak in chat rooms shows their entitlement and belief in no consequence.

'They are certain their victims will never find out, and if they do, that they will never report. A system intended to protect survivors keeps the perpetrators safe. Survivors should not have to adapt to that system - the system needs to change for them.'

What to do if you’ve been affected

Katie White, co-founder of Enough, says: ‘Trust your instincts and be aware of the signs – if something doesn't feel right, it's important to take that seriously. Abuse does happen within relationships, including those that appear stable or loving. Seek support where you can, whether through a trusted person, sexual assault referral centre (SARC) or the police. For those who don’t know whether to report officially yet, there are other options, like Enough.’

The organisation provides a simple way to record experiences, including the option to collect and store DNA evidence, alongside free access to support.

If you have been affected by anything in this article, Rape Crisis offers support for those impacted by rape and sexual abuse. You can call them on 0808 802 9999 in England and Wales, 0808 801 0302 in Scotland, and 0800 0246 991 in Northern Ireland.

This feature first appeared in Woman magazine. Subscribe now and get your first 6 issues for £1.

Ready to see what the week ahead (May 19-24) has in store for you?

Our weekly horoscopes will help provide a guide for your next seven days. Our resident world-class psychic astrologers forecast for every star sign on love, family, career, and more. So check back weekly for our free forecast!

Weekly horoscope for May 19-24 2026

Aries weekly horoscope

Aries are born between March 21—April 19. Aries is the first fire sign in the zodiac, with the symbol of an Aries being a ram. Aries are typically passionate, confident, and motivated.

You may not want to hurt someone by pulling out, but the longer you leave it, the more upset they'll be. If someone else backs out, take it on the chin.

Taurus weekly horoscope

Taurus' are born between April 20-May 20. Taurus is an earth sign, with the symbol of a Taurus being a bull. Taurians are typically hardworking, intelligent, and dedicated.

Taureans are good with money, but don't be tempted to make an investment or purchase that could prove costly. If it looks too good to be true, it probably is.

Gemini weekly horoscope

Geminis are born between May 21-June 21. Gemini is an air sign, with the symbol of a Gemini being twins. Geminis are typically easy-going, enthusiastic and sociable—but are said to have two sides to their personality.

As long as you're aware you're taking a risk and that you can live with the consequences, make your move. Otherwise, wait until you have backup and a safety net.

Cancer weekly horoscope

Cancers are born between June 21-July 22. Cancer is a water sign, with the symbol of a Cancer being a crab. Cancers are typically loyal, caring, and very protective over loved ones.

It may seem as though a situation is heading in the wrong direction, but appearances are deceptive. The more you probe for answers, the more anxious you'll become.

Leo weekly horoscope

Leos are born between July 23-August 22. Leo is a fire sign, with the symbol of a Leo being a Lion. Leos are typically confident, comfortable being the centre of attention, and big-hearted.

If it looks like things aren't going to work out the way you want, rather than confront someone with your beliefs, do some digging. There's a secret to uncover.

Virgo weekly horoscope

Virgos are born between August 23-September 22. Virgo is an earth sign, with the symbol of a Virgo being a 'maiden'. Virgos are typically hardworking, reliable, and stubborn.

The week has its share of surprises, especially at work. A change in personnel or management maybe, or a development you feel is unacceptable. Hold your fire.

Libra weekly horoscope

Libras are born between September 23-October 22. Libra is an air sign, with the symbol of a Libra being scales. Libras are typically diplomatic, fair, and very sociable.

Plans were made to be changed. The more adaptable you can be, the sooner you'll see the pluses of the new status quo. Life is slightly crazy – keep your balance.

Scorpio weekly horoscope

Scorpios are born between October 23-November 21. Scorpio is a water sign, with the symbol of a Scorpio being a scorpion. Scorpios are typically brave, determined, and ambitious.

Mars' energy is great if you need to beat the competition but it can make for arguments and upsets. Pick your battles and keep on the right side of history.

Sagittarius weekly horoscope

Sagittarius' are born between November 22-December 21. Sagittarius is a fire sign, with the symbol of a Sagittarius being a bow and arrow. Sagittarius' are typically optimistic, fun-loving, and intellectual.

These influences are all about the 'Bs' – breakups, breakthroughs and breakdowns. Focus on the positives but if anything is in a fragile state, now is not the time to push.

Capricorn weekly horoscope

Capricorns are born between December 22-January 19. Capricorn is an earth sign, with the symbol of a Capricorn being a sea-goat. Capricorns are typically very hard-working, persistent, and sensitive.

The season of love is beginning, so if you've been complaining there's no one out there for you, get out and prove yourself wrong. Broken hearts may soon mend.

Aquarius weekly horoscope

Aquarius' are born between January 20-February 18. Aquarius is an air sign, with the symbol of Aquarius being a water-bearer. Aquarians are typically assertive, analytical, and independent.

It's all about seizing the moment. An opening in a deadlocked situation could suddenly appear and someone could turn down an offer that leaves the way open for you.

Pisces weekly horoscope

Pisces' are born between February 19-March 20. Pisces is a water sign, with the symbol of Pisces being two fish. Pisces men and women are typically empathetic, romantic, and imaginative.

Ignoring a leaky tap is one thing; sticking your head in the sand about a situation that could cause serious problems is quite another. Don't leave a tricky issue any longer.

Eating to lose weight or improve your health can be confusing.

Fewer than 1% of Brits achieve the balanced diet the NHS recommends - often, what we put on our plate is based on guesswork.

"A diet containing fresh, whole food is preferable to one that’s mostly processed foods, which are typically high in sugar, salt and fat," says GP Dr Nisa Aslam. But while we all know munching French fries is less healthy than a salad, lots of our daily decisions aren't so obvious.

Ready to test your knowledge? Tick what you think are the healthiest picks below, then check out the expert advice so you can tweak your diet.

Another day, another word salad from Prince Harry... It’s almost as if he’s desperate to reassure us and remind us that he’s still relevant...

This time was an interview with ITV News on a whistle-stop tour to Ukraine. He said, 'I will always be part of the Royal Family and I’m here working, doing the very thing I was born to do and I enjoy doing it. I enjoy being able to do these trips and support the people that I’ve met before and the friends that I’ve made.'

My good chum, ITV’s royal editor Chris Ship, asked him if he recognised the phrase ‘not a working royal’, to which he responded, 'No.'

Harry went on to speak of the ongoing humanitarian challenges in Ukraine and express his hope that world leaders would show ‘proper leadership’ to find peace there and in the Middle East.

Which loosely translates as ‘I matter! I’m still royal, royal blood still runs through my veins and therefore what I say is important, people!’

Oh, Harry...

To be fair, he was also there to highlight the excellent work of the HALO Trust, the landmine-clearing organisation whose profile Princess Diana transformed in her 1997 trip to Angola.

But also, striding in a blue vest, reminiscent of those famous images, is it horribly cynical to think that is as much reminding us of his connection to her as it is the cause itself.

Harry, 41, often wants to remind us so desperately of his mum, and his family.

Only a few days prior to his trip, we found out he’d sent a tribute to his late grandmother (a floral wreath sent to her grave in St George’s Chapel inside Windsor castle on what would have been her 100th birthday).

A gesture made ‘privately’ and ‘quietly’ except we knew about it practically the moment it happened through an exclusive with the US magazine People.

He talked about Princess Diana in Australia - saying the royal role 'killed my mum' and so he didn’t want it.

He also talked about her in his autobiography Spare - that a visit to a psychic convinced him he was living the life she had wanted for him.

I feel sorry for him. He’s tried so hard to matter in his own right. He left the Royal Family, said it was awful, tried to find paying gigs, boldly shared HIS TRUTH.

But Hollywood and everyone else got a bit bored of the victimhood and repetitive self-pity. And now? Missing the UK, estranged from his family, he still thinks of himself as a working royal.

Except he’s very far from that.

This feature first appeared in Woman magazine. Subscribe now and get your first 6 issues for £1.

It was a state banquet fit for a king and the great and the good of American high society. Donald Trump was determined to show King Charles that the special relationship between the UK and USA was alive and kicking.

The guest list included golfer Rory McIlroy, Apple boss Tim Cook and the billionaire Amazon founder Jeff Bezos as well as several of Trump’s own family. What was the highlight of Charles and Camilla’s four-day visit to the United States only showed, in my opinion, once again the chasm that exists between the monarch and his second son.

It seems Harry and Meghan were flatly not invited, despite the fact they have now lived in America for the bulk of their married life. What more could symbolise the diplomatic ties between two nations better than a British royal and his Californian wife? How easy it would have been for them to hop on a private jet and join the glitterati paying homage to the royal guests?

Of course Trump has his own beef with the Sussexes and has mocked them on more than one occasion. But that would all be overlooked if the King was determined to see Harry during his journey across the Atlantic.

If some of the ice between father and son had thawed, Harry would surely have been warmly embraced by the event’s organisers. Away from the pomp and ceremony of the White House dinner, it would have once been unthinkable that His Majesty would visit America without making the effort to at least see his son privately.

After all, Charles has reportedly not seen Harry’s children Archie and Lilibet since the late Queen’s Platinum Jubilee in 2022.

When Harry was growing up he was close to his father, famously joining him on a visit to South Africa in the wake of Diana’s tragic death.

What this latest failure to meet tells us is that the duke and duchess appear to remain on the outside as far as the Royal Family is concerned. I imagine that Charles feels he cannot bring his son back into the fold as things currently stand.

For his part, Harry seems to want to be seen as someone who has shrugged off the need to be endorsed by his family and continues to act like a royal without a portfolio.

His visits this year to Jordan, Australia and Ukraine were a sign he has no intention of obeying the late Queen’s insistence that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex could not be half in, half out of the family. 'I will always be part of the Royal Family, and I’m here working and doing the very thing that I was born to do,' he said.

But is there any glimmer of hope things might change in the long term?

Palace sources are gloomy when it comes to Harry’s chances of being brought in from the cold. However, one source did reveal the King has made efforts behind the scenes to ease the distrust between father and son.

They said, 'Harry may have only had a brief face to face with His Majesty last year but there remains some kind of contact. This is not a healing of the relationship but the King is keen to try to find a way to start the long slow process of making things right with Harry.'

Charles, I’m sure, knows how damaging it is for the rift between Harry and in particular his brother William to linger on unresolved.

I am told that Charles and Harry have been in contact since last September’s brief encounter and there were even private talks about the prospect of Charles meeting Harry in private, away from the media spotlight, while he was in America.

A secret meeting would have been an ideal opportunity to move things forward. But that was always going to be tricky - it would have been a huge distraction and sadly a mile away from where their relationship is currently.

The communications between father and son have been strictly confidential but they may at least give Charles some glimmer of hope.

The source added, ‘The King sees the breakdown in relations between the Sussexes and the Prince and Princess of Wales as one of the most distressing aspects of his short reign. And what father wants to be estranged from his own son?’

As Supreme Governor of the Church of England, the monarch is aware of the importance of forgiveness, and the optics of the ‘Megxit’ situation do not look good.

But for now - as their official visit to the States has demonstrated - the King and Queen are a long way from finding a breakthrough to heal the rift that has blighted the Royal Family for far too long.

This feature first appeared in Woman magazine. Subscribe now and get your first 6 issues for £1.

He might have only been on the throne for three years so far but King Charles has already faced some incredibly tough challenges - from his cancer diagnosis in 2024 to stripping Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor of his title. His warring sons are also apparently weighing heavily on his mind and are causing him great distress.

In the latest issue of Woman magazine, a source claimed to royal author Duncan Larcombe, "The King sees the breakdown in relations between the Sussexes and the Prince and Princess of Wales as one of the most distressing aspects of his short reign."

Prince Harry himself has also previously revealed how the brothers' estrangement is hugely upsetting to King Charles.

In his memoir, Spare, he claimed the King urged them to put their differences aside in a tense meeting after Prince Philip's funeral, saying, "Please boys, don't make my final years a misery." It's understood that Harry and William haven't seen each other since a family funeral in 2024.

Meanwhile, the last time the Sussexes and Waleses - once nicknamed the Fab Four - were seen all together was at Queen Elizabeth's funeral. Both Harry and William are focusing on their own families and King Charles could perhaps never have imagined his sons' relationship ending up the way it has.

As a father this must be so difficult to handle, especially given how publicly everything has played out, with the Sussexes' Oprah Winfrey interview and Spare's release. In his memoir, Prince Harry reflected on Prince George's birth in 2013 and described the kind of hands-on uncle he wanted to be.

"I looked forward to popping in all the time. Look! It's Uncle Harry! 'Ello, Just thought I'd stop by. Holding a bottle of wine and an armful of kiddie presents. Dropping to the floor and wrestling with little George," he wrote.

Now George, Charlotte and Louis are growing up an ocean away and "popping in" to see them at Forest Lodge just isn't an option. A proper meeting would have to be arranged between the King's two sons and, according to royal author Christopher Andersen, the door is "shut" on a reconciliation from the Prince and Princess of Wales's point of view.

In Kate! The Courage, Grace, and Power of the Woman Who Will Be Queen, he claims that Harry's "reckless remarks" after meeting with King Charles in 2024 were the final straw. The Duke of Sussex spoke about wanting to reconcile with his family as "life is precious" and he didn't "know how much longer [his] father [had]".

"Kate was more disappointed than angry," Andersen writes, adding, "But William, who had already slammed the door shut on his brother over what Harry wrote in Spare, was, in the words of a courtier, "apoplectic" with rage. Now it was time to nail the door shut once and for all".

The author alleges that "for the first time Kate, who had worked harder than anyone to mend the rift between the brothers" promised her husband that "now she, too, was done with Harry".

Maybe knowing that this won't change contributes to how "distressing" King Charles reportedly finds his sons' rift. As a father, wanting to bring them together again is only natural and he might still have hope that tensions will ease one day.

Read Duncan Larcombe's feature in Woman magazine. Subscribe now and get your first 6 issues for £1.

A new week, a new reading to see what the stars have in store for the days ahead (May 12-18).

Our weekly horoscopes will help provide a guide for your next seven days. Our resident world-class psychic astrologers forecast for every star sign on love, family, career, and more. So check back weekly for our free forecast!

Weekly horoscope for May 12-18 2026

Aries weekly horoscope

Aries are born between March 21—April 19. Aries is the first fire sign in the zodiac, with the symbol of an Aries being a ram. Aries are typically passionate, confident, and motivated.

Curb your enthusiasm. You may be given a great opportunity to show what you can do, but there’s a fine line between confidence and arrogance. Be your sweet self.

Taurus weekly horoscope

Taurus' are born between April 20-May 20. Taurus is an earth sign, with the symbol of a Taurus being a bull. Taurians are typically hardworking, intelligent, and dedicated.

A New Moon in Taurus on the 16th opens up a beautiful horizon. You could be embarking on a trip to distant shores or signing a long-term contract.

Gemini weekly horoscope

Geminis are born between May 21-June 21. Gemini is an air sign, with the symbol of a Gemini being twins. Geminis are typically easy-going, enthusiastic and sociable—but are said to have two sides to their personality.

There’s more than you think to a meeting or a casual statement. This is a time of opportunity and growth. Be ready to change your plans in a heartbeat.

Cancer weekly horoscope

Cancers are born between June 21-July 22. Cancer is a water sign, with the symbol of a Cancer being a crab. Cancers are typically loyal, caring, and very protective over loved ones.

A platonic friendship may be about to morph into something more romantic or a love affair may be poised to become a full-on commitment. Are you ready to say yes?

Leo weekly horoscope

Leos are born between July 23-August 22. Leo is a fire sign, with the symbol of a Leo being a Lion. Leos are typically confident, comfortable being the centre of attention, and big-hearted.

It’s going to be difficult to prevent certain changes from happening, especially those related to your career. So, if you’re meeting with superiors, act like you’ve got this.

Virgo weekly horoscope

Virgos are born between August 23-September 22. Virgo is an earth sign, with the symbol of a Virgo being a 'maiden'. Virgos are typically hardworking, reliable, and stubborn.

If you’re not packing your bags and heading to faraway places, you could be looking into living in a new area. Widening horizons is the theme of the moment.

Libra weekly horoscope

Libras are born between September 23-October 22. Libra is an air sign, with the symbol of a Libra being scales. Libras are typically diplomatic, fair, and very sociable.

Rise above it. A partner or associate could be asserting their dominance and making it difficult for you to do what you believe is best. Don’t engage – it’s hot air.

Scorpio weekly horoscope

Scorpios are born between October 23-November 21. Scorpio is a water sign, with the symbol of a Scorpio being a scorpion. Scorpios are typically brave, determined, and ambitious.

This is one of the best periods in which to make a statement from the heart. Even if it’s not you who’s the one exchanging vows, weddings and engagements are in the air.

Sagittarius weekly horoscope

Sagittarius' are born between November 22-December 21. Sagittarius is a fire sign, with the symbol of a Sagittarius being a bow and arrow. Sagittarius' are typically optimistic, fun-loving, and intellectual.

A chance meeting or surprise offer could make a big difference to your life this week. This is a period of the year during which fate is taking you by the hand.

Capricorn weekly horoscope

Capricorns are born between December 22-January 19. Capricorn is an earth sign, with the symbol of a Capricorn being a sea-goat. Capricorns are typically very hard-working, persistent, and sensitive.

Take a chance. Even better, take a second chance. If an opportunity returns or you feel you’ve been in a similar situation but backed out, it’s returned for a reason.

Aquarius weekly horoscope

Aquarius' are born between January 20-February 18. Aquarius is an air sign, with the symbol of Aquarius being a water-bearer. Aquarians are typically assertive, analytical, and independent.

You may not have the advantage of time to think through your response to an unexpected development. Go with your gut because it knows what’s best for you.

Pisces weekly horoscope

Pisces' are born between February 19-March 20. Pisces is a water sign, with the symbol of Pisces being two fish. Pisces men and women are typically empathetic, romantic, and imaginative.

You can’t prepare for the unforeseen, but you can set your mind to ‘anything goes’ mode. Events are not going to go quite as planned, especially over the weekend.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by your partner's need for constant reassurance? Or maybe you get panicked by someone's distance when dating. We all have patterns of relating to others in relationships, which are often formed in early childhood.

These patterns might just be the reason you're struggling to build and maintain satisfying romantic connections.

Take our quiz to uncover what might be causing your love rut and find out how you can build healthier habits to have the relationship you desire.

If 'you're emotionally steady'

'You're able to express your needs, set and maintain healthy boundaries and be intimate and loving,' explains senior accredited BACP therapist Eve Menezes Cunningham.

While this doesn't mean you won't experience difficulties in relationships, you will be able to take responsibility when you make mistakes, and seek support when you need it.

TRY THIS: Protect your peace. If you're in a relationship with someone who needs lots of reassurance or who is unwilling to commit, remember that you deserve a love that feels good and nourishing, and maybe step back so you're not working harder than they say, says Eve. Encourage them to seek support through therapy as, while you can have empathy, it isn't your job to fix them.

If 'you're an ice queen'

You may pull away when relationships become more serious, you find expressing feelings difficult, and you prioritise time alone, rather than with your partner, says relationship coach Nina Mandair. This can create distance in relationships, making your partner feel disconnected and undesired.

TRY THIS: Go slow. Allowing vulnerability in small, manageable steps can create change over time, says Nina. For example, share a small feeling, such as ‘I’m feeling quite stressed today,’ and then give yourself time to reflect later that you felt heard, respected and safe. These small experiences begin to recondition the nervous system, showing that connection can feel secure and comfortable.

If 'you blow hot and cold'

You feel a strong desire for connection, but you’re also afraid of it. ‘It can be very confusing for partners who sometimes feel let in, sometimes feel too needed, then sometimes feel completely rejected,’ explains senior accredited BACP therapist Eve Menezes Cunningham.

TRY THIS: Be realistic. All-or-nothing thinking can have you swinging between ‘This is perfect, they’re everything I need,’ and ‘I feel trapped, I need to get out.’

This can lead to self-sabotage and abruptly cutting off the connection. Even healthy relationships have bad days, but it doesn’t mean your partner doesn’t love you. Communicating that you need space and giving them a time frame, rather than disappearing, can also help build trust between you.

If 'you crave constant closeness'

Not having these needs met, and noticing small changes in your partner’s behaviour, can cause you to have a strong emotional response, which can lead to arguments and put a strain on the relationship.

TRY THIS: Self-soothe. Partner cancelled plans? Or maybe they took hours to reply to a text? Just pause.

'Instead of seeking reassurance straight away, try breathing exercises, going for a walk or journaling about what you are feeling,’ says relationship coach Nina Mandair.

This will allow you to respond more calmly later and ask for what you need going forward, such as an alternative day together, or even just a phone call to help you feel connected.

Lucy Punch has just returned to screens as posh mum of two and deluded social media influencer Amanda Hughes in a second series of the Motherland spin-off Amandaland - and she's up for a BAFTA for her performance in the first series.

Lucy is nominated for Best Actress in a Comedy for her work in the first series - and her co-stars are her competition. Three actresses from the hit show are competing for Best Actress in a Comedy tonight, including Jennifer Saunders and Philippa Dunne.

Viewers can watch the BAFTA TV Awards from anywhere in the world tonight (May 10) to see who comes out on top, and afterwards, they can stream the new series of Amandaland.

After originating the role back in 2016's Motherland, Lucy now finds it "alarmingly easy" to get into her award-nominated character now - and it's all thanks to the look.

She shared, "The hair, heels, gels and all the primping that’s involved to look like Amanda helps hugely. I know her so well after 10 years that it’s alarmingly easy to get into this character."

As the show returns with six brand new episodes, Lucy reveals what’s new - including improved relations with the downstairs neighbour - and what’s not - Amanda’s desperate need to elevate her social standing. Of course.

Explaining where we find her in this second series, Lucy said, "Amanda is still in SoHa [South Harlesden in north-west London]. She’s more settled now, but still doing everything she can to elevate her social standing and circumstances.

“She’s just as delusional about herself as ever!"

Speaking on the character’s evolution since viewers first met her in Motherland, which debuted in 2016, Lucy shared, “Her superiority was her ugliest trait. Nevertheless, her giant ego and status anxiety remains, so she still wants everyone to think she’s the best.”

Still, despite this, Lucy does find the diamond in the rough with the character, adding, “Her values may be skewed, but she loves her kids and puts them first.”

Of the new series, as well as seeing Amanda and her downstairs neighbour Mal (played by Samuel Anderson) start to get on better, Amanda tells viewers to look out for “some fantastically funny new characters and hilarious storylines with the ones we already know and love.

“I got to work with so many incredibly funny actors - I loved my scenes with Pam Ferris [who plays Amanda’s neighbour Elspeth]. She’s brilliant!”

woman&home’s entertainment writer, Lucy Wigley, had nothing but praise for the new series of the BBC sitcom, hailing it as “slick, hilarious, [and] British comedy at its absolute finest”.

Amandaland series two airs Wednesday nights on BBC One, or stream all episodes on iPlayer.

This feature first appeared in Woman magazine. Subscribe now and get your first 6 issues for £1.

The most common symptoms of perimenopause are reportedly hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings, and poor sleep, but digestive changes actually affect more than 8 in 10 women at this life stage, according to a recent survey by The Menopause Society.

The survey found that bloating, constipation, and stomach pain were the top three issues, and almost every woman (94%) had experienced at least one of them in her life. So, it's fair to say that you're not alone if you've experienced changes to your digestive health after perimenopause.

Yet, it's often one of the symptoms swept under the rug, says Dr Amir Khan, a NHS GP and woman&home's own resident doctor. "Lots of women are surprised to learn that oestrogen and the gut are linked," he says.

Why does bloating happen after perimenopause?

The doctor says that the digestive system becomes more sensitive "as oestrogen levels fluctuate and fall during perimenopause and menopause". The hormone plays a vital role in balancing our gut bacteria, keeping the gut lining strong, and reducing inflammation, so when we don't have enough of it, these benefits are limited.

"There's also a group of bacteria in our gut called oestrobolome, which breaks down oestrogen and brings it back to your bloodstream. During menopause, this bacteria becomes less plentiful and less efficient, meaning less oestrogen is recycled back into the blood via the gut," says Dr Khan.

"All of this means menopause affects your gut, but also your gut health affects the severity of your menopause symptoms, leading to bloating, constipation, and wind," he explains.

How to ease bloating after perimenopause

• Eat more fibre: High-fibre foods like fruits, vegetables, chia seeds, and nuts are great for gut health. They relieve bloating and constipation, and help keep bowel movements regular.
• Add more high-protein foods to your diet: Protein helps keep bloating at bay as well, the doctor says, as it helps produce stomach acids and enzymes. However, too much of it or eating protein supplements too quickly can have the opposite effect.
• Include more fermented foods in your diet: Fermented foods like sauerkraut and kimchi improve gut bacteria diversity, and help reduce inflammation, improving gut health and reducing bloating symptoms. Sprinkle some on a salad or add some to a sandwich at lunchtime.

One underrated high-fibre food to include is legumes, the doctor adds. "Legumes feed beneficial gut bacteria, helping to reduce inflammation, improve cholesterol, and stabilise blood sugars. Their low glycaemic index prevents energy spikes and crashes, too, supporting steady appetite and weight control. Eat them three to four times a week."

Uncomfortable symptoms may stop or become manageable after menopause for some, as hormones stabilise. However, the doctor also urges anyone with new bloating or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms to speak to their doctor. "It can be a symptom of ovarian cancer, and they will most likely offer you a blood test and/or a scan," he says.

This advice initially appeared in the March 2026 issue of woman&home magazine. Subscribe today.

She hasn’t been seen in public since September last year due to the fallout from the Epstein scandal. But it was probably only a matter of time before Sarah Ferguson, the former Duchess of York was finally found.

A daily newspaper tracked her down to the Austrian Alps, where she’s apparently been hiding out in a £2,000-a-night chalet.

She is staying near one of her favourite wellness retreats - the Mayrlife Medical Health Resort in the spa town of Altaussee - and has been there since February.

She’s said to be in no rush to leave, despite her location being rumbled.

Friends say she is burying her head in the sand, after US lawmakers allegedly asked Fergie to testify to Congress following releases from the Epstein files about her close ties to the US financier and convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein, who died in 2019.

It’s claimed she has yet to respond, and there is no legal mechanism in place to force her to testify.

Sarah was stripped of her courtesy royal title when her ex-husband Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor was 'de-Princed' last year, and six companies linked to the former duchess, including the Sarah’s Trust charity, have also since been closed.

The newspaper report said she’d checked into Room 101 under her former royal title and rarely leaves the Alpine chalet.

It’s thought that she’s hidden herself away to protect her children and grandchildren.

I have to admit that, despite her appalling lack of judgement, craven need for money and crawling friendship with Epstein, I do feel a tiny bit sorry for her.

She adores her family, will be devastated not to see them and Princesses Eugenie - who is pregnant with her third child - and Beatrice are said to be in close contact with their ‘Mumsy’.

What future is there for her?

I doubt that she’s paying for the luxury accommodation herself (the resort charges a dizzying £2,530 for its seven-day wellness treatment protocol) and must be bored out of her mind.

Sure, the views are lovely but she isn’t even going out for bracing walks in the stunning mountain and lakeside scenery.

There’s all sorts of talk of her being inundated with book and TV interview offers - one of which was even thought to be worth £1.3m - to tell her side of the story.

Then again… maybe she should just stay quiet.

Looking solemn and reflective, Kate Middleton laid a wreath to honour Australia’s war dead on 25 April. In another sign of how much trust the King places in her and how she is stepping up as a senior royal, he asked her to represent the Royal Family for this year’s Anzac Day commemorations.

During a moving ceremony at the Cenotaph in London, the Princess of Wales laid a wreath to remember all those from Australia and New Zealand who served and died in military operations.

It is a national holiday and day of remembrance in both countries (similar to our Remembrance Sunday), and Kate later attended a service of commemoration at Westminster Abbey. What a difference to Meghan Markle, who had visited Australia just a week before…

There she was accused of 'cashing in' on her royal title, using visits to a children’s hospital and Bondi Beach as PR capital to boost a new fashion venture.

Although Meghan is not a working royal, she and Harry acted as though they were on a non-royal ‘royal tour’ of Melbourne, Sydney and Canberra - where, let’s not forget, Charles is the King and head of their Armed Forces.

A royal source said, "The Princess of Wales quietly showed everyone how it was done last weekend. Dignified, respectful and showing up to honour all the military of Australia and New Zealand. It’s a fitting riposte to the Duchess of Sussex.

"She is arguably only as famous as she is because of her title gained from marrying into the Royal Family. And she is using it to profit personally. Catherine is revered because she is all about public service and duty, never about herself."

Indeed, I’m told that the Prince and Princess of Wales were quietly ‘horrified’ about Meghan ‘selling’ the outfit that she wore to meet survivors and emergency responders of the Bondi Beach terrorist attack.

She appeared moved to tears while hugging and meeting those who had survived the Hanukkah event last December where 15 people were killed and 40 injured.

But she attracted huge criticism when, shortly afterward, her £1,480 ‘beach chic’ look of striped shirt and white trousers was posted on a fashion website where she is paid a percentage from sales.

Prince Harry and lifeguards were also in the picture - which was later changed to one of just Meghan next to a car, wearing the same outfit. But the damage was done.

Meghan’s page on fashion platform OneOff, where she is billed as 'Meghan, Duchess of Sussex', features dozens of pictures of her in recent months, many pointedly showing her hand-in-hand with the late Queen’s grandson (still fifth in line to the throne), all with links to buy her outfits.

Every time someone buys an item, the website receives a 10 to 25% cut - which is then split with Meghan.

It’s also highly likely that the duchess would have got much of her Australia wardrobe for free, as this is standard practice with fashion influencers. They are ‘gifted’ free outfits in return for featuring them on their social media platforms.

But for royal women, the rules are different.

The fundamental principle is that no gifts (ranging from clothes, jewellery and handbags to even cuddly toys or kitchen equipment) should be accepted that would, or would appear to, place the royal under any obligation to the donor - for example, receiving free clothes with the expectation that they be worn to a public event and thus give the designer publicity.

In the past, the Princess of Wales has bought clothes online, borrowed clothes from favoured designers (via her stylists and PAs) or paid cost price to have clothes made for her. She doesn’t receive ‘freebies’, although a company could get round the rules by, say, sending her a handbag as a Christmas or birthday gift.

And obviously she doesn’t get paid when the ‘Kate effect’ means her outfits then sell out.

Royal expert Richard Palmer said the sale of Meghan’s Bondi outfit online reflected badly on the Sussexes. "This is perhaps the starkest example yet of Harry and Meghan’s efforts to commercialise their royal brand," he said.

"I think this will have alarm bells ringing at the Palace. They can say it’s nothing to do with the institution because Harry and Meghan aren’t publicly funded members of it - but they are the King’s son and daughter-in-law and any suggestion of cashing in on royal status reflects badly on the monarchy."

But Kate quietly reminds Meghan how it should be done, arguably the biggest call-out someone could ask for…

This feature first appeared in Woman magazine. Subscribe now and get your first 6 issues for £1.

She’s a former Dragon’s Den titan and she’s built an empire on crafts, but Sara Davies still appreciates the simpler things in life.

Appearing as the cover star on the latest issue of woman&home, Sara proved she’s never lost touch with her roots, opening up on her struggles with showing emotion and the importance of living frugally despite her multi-million-pound successes.

This translates to the personal touches that bring plenty of home comforts to her County Durham property.

For Sara, she wants her five-bedroom home to feel 'lived-in' and her three favourite pieces of homeware perfectly capture her refreshing attitude to life, from framed family photos to a blanket that everyone snuggles under.

The first of her favourite things inside her home isn’t designer or expensive, it’s all about family.

"I have a family blanket from my QVC range that all of us snuggle under when we put on a movie."

Another thing Sara likes to do is something anyone can recreate – fresh flowers. She shared, "I always love fresh flowers and I have a vase I upcycled with some paint and nail varnish to create a marbled effect."

Adding flowers is one of the smartest ways to brighten up any space on any budget.

Getting hands-on and crafty to reinvent budget-friendly additions to the home is something Sara loves to share – she's often sharing crafty tips for upcycling on her social media.

Last, but definitely not least, Sara’s third pick of what makes her house a home, rather than a show-home, is something every parent can relate to. She said, "The third would have to be two frames that are in the hallway containing pictures of the boys on their first day of school."

As well as sharing her three favourite pieces, Sara touched on her love of upcycling.

She said, "I love making and upcycling things so that my home has a personal touch. My home is very lived-in.

"I always have a house full and I'm not precious about anything. We don't have show furniture and I don't worry about things being ruined or broken."

Sara often shares upcycling tips on her social media - and, per reports, she has a room dedicated to crafting in her home.

Ready to find out what the week ahead (May 5-11) has in store?

Our weekly horoscopes will help provide a guide for your next seven days. Our resident world-class psychic astrologers forecast for every star sign on love, family, career, and more. So check back weekly for our free forecast!

Weekly horoscope for May 5-11 2026

Aries weekly horoscope

Aries are born between March 21—April 19. Aries is the first fire sign in the zodiac, with the symbol of an Aries being a ram. Aries are typically passionate, confident, and motivated.

Think twice before you deliver an ultimatum or react to someone who has pressed your buttons. Maintain a dignified silence. Revenge is a dish best served cold.

Taurus weekly horoscope

Taurus' are born between April 20-May 20. Taurus is an earth sign, with the symbol of a Taurus being a bull. Taurians are typically hardworking, intelligent, and dedicated.

You may feel you have reached an impasse, but there’s wiggle room. What you don’t want to do is write something off because you can’t see a way forward.

Gemini weekly horoscope

Geminis are born between May 21-June 21. Gemini is an air sign, with the symbol of a Gemini being twins. Geminis are typically easy-going, enthusiastic and sociable—but are said to have two sides to their personality.

There may be some truth to what someone is telling you, but you’d be better investigating further. Likewise, in the event of an unwelcome decision, ask for a second opinion.

Cancer weekly horoscope

Cancers are born between June 21-July 22. Cancer is a water sign, with the symbol of a Cancer being a crab. Cancers are typically loyal, caring, and very protective over loved ones.

Getting everyone involved with a major project to agree or even show up will be akin to herding cats. Everyone has their own agenda. Keep cool and bring treats.

Leo weekly horoscope

Leos are born between July 23-August 22. Leo is a fire sign, with the symbol of a Leo being a Lion. Leos are typically confident, comfortable being the centre of attention, and big-hearted.

There’s more to situations than meets the eye, so prepare to dive deep. Someone may be keeping a secret or disguising their motives. Put on your deerstalker.

Virgo weekly horoscope

Virgos are born between August 23-September 22. Virgo is an earth sign, with the symbol of a Virgo being a 'maiden'. Virgos are typically hardworking, reliable, and stubborn.

You’re on a voyage of discovery. Travelling to unknown destinations aside, what starts out as a decluttering exercise or a fact-finding mission could reveal hidden treasures.

Libra weekly horoscope

Libras are born between September 23-October 22. Libra is an air sign, with the symbol of a Libra being scales. Libras are typically diplomatic, fair, and very sociable.

Talking money with partners or financial organisations is recommended. Be clear with your demands and don’t settle for less than you deserve. Do not compromise!

Scorpio weekly horoscope

Scorpios are born between October 23-November 21. Scorpio is a water sign, with the symbol of a Scorpio being a scorpion. Scorpios are typically brave, determined, and ambitious.

Small disagreements can turn into big upsets. If you sense a situation is at a tipping point, park it for three days, then try again and you’ll get a result.

Sagittarius weekly horoscope

Sagittarius' are born between November 22-December 21. Sagittarius is a fire sign, with the symbol of a Sagittarius being a bow and arrow. Sagittarius' are typically optimistic, fun-loving, and intellectual.

This week, use your intuition. If you believe the time has come to make someone an offer, go for it. And if you think more lies behind a situation, start digging.

Capricorn weekly horoscope

Capricorns are born between December 22-January 19. Capricorn is an earth sign, with the symbol of a Capricorn being a sea-goat. Capricorns are typically very hard-working, persistent, and sensitive.

If a matter has reached stalemate, look for an intermediary. Your ability to see a way through may be hampered by the desire to settle scores. Fresh thinking is needed.

Aquarius weekly horoscope

Aquarius' are born between January 20-February 18. Aquarius is an air sign, with the symbol of Aquarius being a water-bearer. Aquarians are typically assertive, analytical, and independent.

There’s a history to a current dilemma, and it probably lies in events that took place in late January. Go over the paperwork, check your emails and texts. Keep looking.

Pisces weekly horoscope

Pisces' are born between February 19-March 20. Pisces is a water sign, with the symbol of Pisces being two fish. Pisces men and women are typically empathetic, romantic, and imaginative.

You may not like confrontations, but sometimes it’s the only way to achieve what’s right and fair. There’s a chance you’re being manipulated – you must call it out.

There's a well-known saying that people can come into your life for a reason, a season or a lifetime.

If you follow this mentality, you can accept that, sometimes, friendships reach a natural end. But that can be easier said than done to totally move on from a former friendship.

That's the case with our reader, who cut a very close friend out of her life after perceived betrayals. Now, years later, she's wondering if she should get in touch after hearing her former friend is going through some health issues.

Is it ever worth going back to an old friendship?

The reader asked: When I was in my late 30s, I cut one of my closest friends out of my life. She would flirt with my boyfriends and also went out with one of my ex-partners, who had meant a lot to me.

She didn’t seem particularly worried about my feelings, even when I tried to explain why I felt hurt. She often went behind my back and I didn’t trust her. It meant that she didn’t come to my wedding and has not met my children.

Recently, I’ve heard through mutual friends that she has been having a difficult time after going through some health issues. There have been moments in the past 20 years when I have missed her and reflected on the good times we had. I wonder if I should get in touch. Is it ever worth going back?

You made the decision to place a very clear boundary

When I read your dilemma for the first time, I must admit I was stumped. Not because I don't know what to say, but because I'm going through exactly the same problem with an ex-friend of mine too.

So, do I offload on you and say 'and then she did this...' with total outrage? Or do I advise you with a professional degree of therapeutic distance and objectivity?

However you look at it, we're both hurt by how our friends have behaved towards us, and we both made the decision to place a very clear boundary down. However... and here's the rub... we miss them.

And when we hear that someone we've loved dearly is struggling, that tugs on the conscience, doesn't it? So let's look at this two ways.

First, I'll tell you what I think as a pal. And second, through a therapy lens. Then somewhere in the middle will be the balm that might just help you move forward.

Missing her doesn't mean you were wrong

So let me start where a friend would. You don't cut someone out of your life for no reason, especially not a close friend. I know that myself. That decision comes after a slow accumulation of hurt, chaos, betrayal and that horrible sense that you can't quite relax around someone any more.

And once that trust goes, trying to stick it back together sometimes means cutting yourself on the very thing you're trying to fix. Missing her doesn't mean you were wrong. It means you had some great times together and your heart still feels that seductive pull.

And isn't it funny how we yearn to replay the laughter, while editing out the moments our friend stuck a knife in our back? But here's the question: are you missing her - or the friendship you kept hoping she'd be able to give you? Because they're not always the same thing.

In therapy, we talk about boundaries not as punishment, but as acts of self-protection.

You did what you did because staying friends came at too high a cost to your emotional wellbeing. And unless something fundamental has changed - real insight, accountability, different behaviour - old dynamics have a habit of resurfacing, no matter how many years have passed.

Hearing about her health issues may have triggered a familiar sense of responsibility in you. After all, many of us want to be 'a good person' and help or get in touch, even after someone has hurt us. But compassion doesn't need closeness. You can care, genuinely, without returning to a role that damaged you.

'Be there for others. But never leave yourself behind'

If you do get in touch, then do it consciously. Keep it kind, within the boundaries and pay attention to how you feel. Your nervous system is often wiser than your conscience.

And if you choose not to make contact, that doesn't make you hard-hearted. Sometimes it simply means you've learnt to protect yourself.

So is it ever worth going back? Yes.

But I keep a card in my diary at all times that reads, 'Be there for others. But never leave yourself behind.' Wise words to live by.

If you would like help with a problem, email askanna@futurenet.com or leave a voice note at hello@itcantjustbeme.co.uk and mention you’re a woman&home reader. Note that Anna may choose your dilemma to discuss on her podcast, It Can't Just Be Me

After being a much-loved judge on The Great British Bake Off for the past nine years, Dame Prue Leith announced her retirement from the show at the start of the year.

Fortunately for fans of the cook and author, she’s far from putting her feet up. woman&home recently caught up with her to talk about her book, Being Old… And Learning to Love It, why she quit Bake Off, and the advice she’d give to Nigella Lawson who is replacing her on Bake Off.

In keeping with her practical nature, Prue kept her words of wisdom for Nigella to the point, sharing, "Just enjoy it".

She added, "Honestly - she will never have a nicer job. And she’s a very nice woman, so it couldn’t be better."

Considering it’s the nicest job, just why did Prue leave? In a very relatable moment, she realised she might have been done with work while on holiday.

She said, "I went on holiday to Madagascar with my husband [John Playfair] and thought, 'I want to do more of this.’ I also thought it was a good idea to go before somebody suggested I went.

"I think it’s important to leave while you’re happy and enjoying it.”

She’ll also have more opportunity to enjoy her favourite way of spending time with John - riding his motorbike.

"We’ll go for jaunts on his Harley-Davidson and stop off for a pub lunch," she explained, "I really enjoy arriving at a pub with everybody looking at us. First, they take in the bike, then they see these two old codgers getting off and look so surprised."

Despite wishing Nigella well, Prue won’t be a loyal viewer when the show returns later in the year.

Revealing she likely won’t watch, she said, "I hardly watch telly at all. And when I do, I watch travel programmes about people going to extraordinary places."

Prue might never find a nicer job but she does remember one embarrassing moment during her tenure that left her feeling like an "absolute idiot".

"At the end of my first series, I posted the name of the winner, Sophie Faldo, early because I was travelling in Bhutan and got confused about the time zones… everyone involved in the show was remarkably nice about it."

For now, Prue will keep herself busy filming her ITV series, Prue Leith's Cotswold Kitchen, which she loves as she gets to film "at home and [have] John with me."

“I love the fact everything we film is real - we don’t retake anything. So if I bring a cake out of the oven and it cracks in half, I work out how to fix it."

Would a cake by Prue ever crack, one wonders? Well, she revealed a surprising secret - she’s no baker.

"I’m not a baker. I’ve got a very good set of taste buds, so I’m a very good judge. But in a million years, I could never win Bake Off."