Monday, November 12, 2012

Quick and easy recipes for dinner in 10 minutes

If you're ever short on time but need to get dinner on the table, relax. We've come up with four meals that take 10 minutes or less to prepare, perfect for when time is tight.
Chicken Milanesas
Chicken milanesas with salad
Chicken breasts cook quickly - but even quicker when they're sliced in half. Serve with a green salad and lemon wedges for squeezing over. Serves 2.
Ingredients
small handful freshly chopped parsley
55g Panko breadcrumbs
1 egg, beaten
2 tbsp plain flour
1 chicken breast, sliced in half along the depth to make two thinner breast steaks
sunflower oil, for frying
sea salt flakes
Method
1. In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs and parsley. Crack the egg into another bowl and beat. Tip the flour into a third bowl.
2. Season the chicken breast halves with salt. Dip first in the flour, then into the egg and finally into the breadcrumbs, pressing them down to coat.
3. Fry the breadcrumbed chicken in the oil, on a medium to high heat, for about 3 minutes on each side. Check the chicken is cooked through completely, scatter with sea salt flakes and serve with the lemon wedges and a salad.
 
Sea bass fillets with basil and lemon couscous and grilled vine tomatoes
Sea bass with lemon and basil cous cous and grilled vine tomatoes
A healthy supper for two and ready in 10 minutes.
Ingredients
100g couscous
Extra-virgin olive oil (and regular olive oil, for frying)
100g cherry tomatoes on the vine
sea salt flakes
2 boneless sea bass fillets (skin on)
juice of half a lemon
2 tbsp chopped basil leaves
Method
1. Boil the kettle. Tip the couscous into a mixing bowl and drizzle in 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil. Pour the boiling water over the grains until they're just covered, and cover with cling film. Leave to one side.
2. Arrange the vine tomatoes onto a foil-lined grill tray. Season with salt and black pepper and drizzle with a little olive oil. Slide under a medium grill.
3. Meanwhile, heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a wide, non-stick pan. Lay the fillets, skin side down, into the hot pan, and fry for 3 minutes. Gently turn them over and fry for another 2 minutes.
4. Check the couscous - it should now be tender. Squeeze in the lemon juice and stir in the basil. Season the couscous with a little salt and check the fish is cooked through. Serve the fish with the couscous and the tomatoes on the side.
 
Pappardelle with garlic, parsley and chilli flakes
Pappardelle with chilli flakes garlic parsley
Depending on its shape, dried pasta cooks in about 10-12 minutes. Cut this time in under half by using fresh pasta. Serves 2, generously.
Ingredients
250g fresh pappardelle (or any other fresh pasta shape)
olive oil
quarter of a teaspoon dried chilli flakes
small handful freshly chopped parsley
1 chunky garlic clove, finely chopped or grated
Parmesan cheese, for serving

Method

1. Drop the pappardelle into slightly salted water. While it cooks, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a non-stick frying pan and fry the garlic and chilli flakes until aromatic. Keep frying on a low heat and add in the parsley, stirring.
2. Once the pasta is cooked, lift it out with tongs and toss in the frying pan, until coated in the herby oil and flecked with the parsley and chilli. Serve immediately, with grated Parmesan cheese.
 
Quesadillas and Cheesy Nachos
10 minute quesadillas and cheesy nachos
For a quick, informal snack try these quesadillas, made with tasty Lancashire cheese, chorizo and red onion. Great with a salad or some dips on the side. Makes 6 triangles (enough for 2 servings).
Ingredients
100g Tasty Lancashire cheese (we used Mrs Kirkham's Farmhouse)
1 mild green chilli, sliced
75g tortilla corn chips
2 tortilla wraps
half a small red onion, peeled and sliced thinly
6 slices thinly sliced chorizo

Method

1. Set your oven to 220C. Tip the tortilla chips into a shallow ovenproof dish. Crumble 20g of the Lancashire cheese over the top and scatter over the chilli slices. Slide into the oven.
2. Put a dry, non-stick frying pan over a medium heat. Fill one half of each tortilla wrap with a sprinkling of the remaining cheese, a few red onion slices and 3 chorizo slices. Fold the wraps over and push down to seal. Dry-fry the quesadillas for about 2-3 minutes on each side, and then transfer to a board. Cut each tortilla into three wedges and serve with the nachos, which by now should be warmed and oozy with cheese.
Which meals do you rely on when time is tight?

MTV EMA’s: Kim Kardashian turns up trailing a shredded bin bag, shall we tell her?

Kim Kardashian arrived at tonight's EMA Awards with what appeared to be a shredded bin bag stuck in her skirt.
Kim, you seem to have a bin bag stuck in you knickers. Copyright: [rex]

We can totally see how this happened: Kim was shopping for bin bags in Sainsbury's when she accidentally dropped her list.
Silly Kim.
Kanye West, being the prankster we know he is, cheekily tucked one in her skirt while she was grovelling around on the floor and she ended up trailing it all the way to the EMAs.

Is it any surprise that it managed to get so shredded along the way?
Poor old Kim.
Kim is at the EMA Awards tonight. Copyright: [rex]
Yes, we jest, but we say we can either laugh or cry when it comes to outfits like this and in this case we chose to laugh.
Kim wrote on Twitter earlier: "I'm wearing the coolest Stephane Rolland dress for tonight's MTV Awards! Hope you guys like it!"
And we do kind of love Kim's er, elaborate train, as it most definitely shows she isn't afraid to take fashion risks.
What next? A freezer bag clutch?
However, we are sure our opinion hardly matters to Ms Kardashian. After all, she has just designed a soon to be sell out range for Dorothy Perkins, not us.

Little Mix rip apart X Factor’s Christopher Maloney, say he is a fake

Little Mix have laid into Gary Barlow's last remaining X Factor act, Christopher Maloney, calling him a fake and saying he won't ever be a pop star.
Little Mix are not fans of Chris Maloney. Copyright: [wenn]

Poor old Chris, it seems everyone has something to say about him.
Jesy Nelson said how she feels sorry for Gary now that Christopher is his only act left.

Jesy says: "Poor Gary, clinging on to Ma-phoney. We're not fans."
She added that she and the girls just don't understand who would but a Christopher Maloney album:
"I don't really get it and I don't know who is going to buy his music. I guess 'each to their own'. But I can't see that he's going to become a pop star."
Well, it takes on to know one we guess and don't forget Little Mix won the show last year.
And her band mate Jade Thirwall vowed: "I'll eat my hat if he goes the whole way."
However, we hope Jade has some tasty headgear to choose from as it's believed Christopher is winning the public vote week on week.
Yep, so it seems Chris may well very have the last laugh.
We wonder if Little Mix will say what they think when they perform their new single DNA on tonight's results show?

Thursday, November 8, 2012

Eight holiday scams and how to avoid them

 


Visa stamp in passport (© Getty Images)
It’s a jungle out there. For all the beaches and basilicas you might see, going on holiday to foreign lands risks all manner of currency cons, pretend policemen and pilfered passports. The sensible just stay in Britain, and rent a bungalow in Bognor. But if you’re determined to head abroad, then at least be vigilant. Here are eight of the commonest tourist scams – and how best to sidestep them:
The speedy visa
It seems a pain to apply for a visa for the likes of Burkina Faso, Borneo or Bolivia in advance, so you decide to get one on arrival, which the guidebook promises is possible. However, when you come to the gates, Carlos the Customs Officer gives you two options: a ‘speedy visa’, for which pleasure you pay an extortionate charge (payable to Carlos, please), or a normal one, for which you need to wait. And wait. And wait…
Solution: Get your visa sorted in advance, and make sure you do so via the relevant country’s embassy. Resist using agencies or third-parties; they generally charge high fees.
The tour rep with an agenda
Often witnessed in souks, one of the oldest ruses in the scam book sees guides take you into shops run by their friends, and pressure you into a purchase – it’s in their interest, as they’ll get commission. Or, a variation on this, recommending a restaurant run by their brother, mother or twin sister’s aunt’s boyfriend’s neighbour.
Solution: Always be wary when a guide suggests you enter a place of business, and remember you’re the boss: if you want to buy or eat somewhere else, you darn well can.
The currency conners
Learning a foreign currency can be difficult. Swindlers can take advantage of naivety in various ways: a corrupt cashier providing the wrong denomination of notes, a shopkeeper lopping off a zero or a barman giving you, say, Czech koruna (50 to £1) instead of Polish zloty (six to £1). Watch out too for retailers billing you in sterling rather than the local currency, and applying their own exchange rate; suffice to say, they don’t use XE.com’s latest figures.
Solution: Be alert, and learn the local currency quickly, including recent exchange rates. Only change money at the most official-looking places, and never accept sterling abroad.
The early-morning reception call
Here’s how this one works: very early in the morning, after you checked in late the night before, the hotel reception rings up; they forgot this when you arrived, but they just need your bank details for security reasons. You mumble them out, and then return to your forty winks. They, meanwhile, make an early start on the year’s Christmas presents.
Solution: Be vigilant with details, and say you’ll pay cash for any charges, please. At the end of your stay, ask for an itemised bill. You’ll be amazed how often this request leads to the receptionist realising that they’ve made a mistake.
Taxi (© Getty Images)
The illegal taxi
If you think British taxi drivers are a rip-off, wait until you meet some of their equivalents abroad. The problem always stems from bogus cabs; often these look like the genuine article from the outside, but quickly reveal themselves not to be so. You might be ferried to completely the wrong hotel, so another taxi can ‘rescue you’ for a prohibitive fee, or charged far too much in the absence of a meter. In the worst cases, you’ll be driven up a dim side-street and efficiently relieved of all valuables.
Solution: As best you can, ensure the cab is official; the driver should have ID and a meter. Attempt to arrange a fee upfront if possible, but don’t pay until you’ve reached your destination. Try not to put any luggage in the boot – it’s amazing how often those keys can go missing…
The not-so-complimentary nibbles
Ah – everyone loves some free bread or olives between a meal. It’s the sign of a good restaurant, don’t you think? A nice free appetiser bef… what? What’s that? It wasn’t free after all? It’s on our bill? They’ve charged how much?
Solution: Easy – learn the local word for ‘free’, point at said aperitif and ask the local Manuel just how complimentary these pre-dins snacks really are.
The fake policeman
This classic involves a man in plain clothes approaching you and claiming to be a policeman. Thus follows an elaborate explanation – a hunt for a suspect; a local crackdown on counterfeit currency – of why he needs to see your passport, wallet or both. Hand them over, and he’ll just be back in a minute…
Solution: Ask to see identification in the first instance. If money or a passport is demanded, rather than refuse, suggest you do it at the station (although don’t accept a lift) or say you’ve left both at home.
The damaged hire car
At the airport, you check in your Renault 19 and it’s all smiles at the car hire desk. But, back home, your credit card bill a few weeks later reveals that the car-hire company’s charged you a Ferrari’s worth of pounds for alleged damages that you know are made up.
Solution: The easiest way out of this hole is to avoid it altogether. Mark any damage before you hire the car and take photographs afterwards. Always ask for an official ‘all clear’ receipt when returning the car.

For Cameron, Obama's win is a warning

The prime minister might end up learning the wrong lessons from the US president's re-election, argues Adam Bienkov.



As it became clear that Barack Obama had won, David Cameron immediately congratulated the man he called "my friend" and said that he looked forward to working with him for "the next four years."

For Cameron, Obama's victory proved that incumbents can win, even when unemployment is high and growth low.

It proved that he can win despite his opponents promising all gain and no pain.

And it proved that after a long, messy time in government, voters won't necessarily hand back control to the people who caused the mess.

But if David Cameron believes that Obama's victory guarantees his own re-election, then he is in for a nasty surprise.

Because what Tuesday's result really shows is that time is running out for the conservative movements both in the US and the UK.

"Their remaining supporters are overwhelmingly pale, male and stale"

In America, the Republicans have lost the popular vote in five out of the last six presidential elections.

Their remaining supporters are overwhelmingly pale, male and stale, amid an electorate that is more diverse by the year.

In the UK, the Conservative vote is also in steady decline, with non-whites, northerners and the young, increasingly less likely to vote Tory.

Government cuts and controversial reforms to the NHS have also damaged trust in the party.

Meanwhile Cameron's hopes that a review of parliamentary constituency boundaries would cancel out bias against his party were dashed by the Lib Dems, in revenge for the Tories refusing to allow House of Lords reform.

And just as the Tea Party forced Mitt Romney onto marginal and unpopular positions, so too have the Conservatives forced Cameron onto issues that most people don't care about.

While the public worry about jobs and growth, the Conservative Party obsess about abortion and Europe.

"The Conservatives are pushing Cameron eyes-shut, arms-folded into the abyss."

Cameron failed to win a majority against Gordon Brown, largely because he hadn't done enough to change this perception.

Winning after five years in government now looks even more difficult.

But in order to stand a chance, the Tories need to drastically change their image, and they need to rapidly retreat from the margins of public debate.

Both of these look increasingly unlikely to happen.

Just as Republicans are using Romney's defeat as an excuse to go even further right, so too are the Conservatives pushing Cameron eyes-shut, arms-folded into the abyss.

Of course Ed Miliband is no Barack Obama, and the Conservative Party have not descended to the extreme positions taken by the Republican right.

But if you want a picture of Cameron's future, then don’t imagine him standing victorious in front of a stadium full of screaming fans.

Instead just think again of that guy called Mitt Romney. And imagine him explaining to his supporters why once again they have fallen short.

Rita Ora suffers nip slip on stage, cringe

It's happened to the best of performers. From Nicki Minaj to Madonna.
Rita OraRita Ora suffered an awkward nip slip. Copyright [WENN]And last night, poor Rita Ora suffered a cringeworthy nip slip as she performed on stage.
 
And it's not as though Rita was strutting her stuff in a little venue where no one really saw. She was only at blimmin' Wembley Arena.
Serious cringe.
Rita OraRita Ora looked amazing during her gig. Copyright [WENN]Rita was wearing a white jumpsuit with the zip pulled right down at the front - and it seems that in her flurry to get on stage and strut her stuff, she forgot to put her bra on.
But she can be forgiven, seeing as Rita was actually zooming all over London - after her performance at Wembley she then motorbiked to the 02 arena for another show.
She even tweeted a snap of herself next to the motorbike, sporting a stylish crash helmet.
Rita OraRita Ora was performing two gigs last night - and jumped on a motorbike between them! Copyright [Rita Ora]She tweeted the photo alongside the caption:"ON MY WAY TO MY SECOND SHOW OF THE NIGHT!! THIS IS HOW WE ROLL!! #SYLTONUM1 #CULTURECLASH."
Following her second performance, Rita took to Twitter again to tell fans she was (understandably) a bit knackered.
The singer said: "'Goodnight! 2 shows in a row I'm done. i need sleep. goodnight!"
Well, we reckon after two shows and a recent tour of America, AND a succession of number one singles, Rita Ora's nip slip is probably the last thing on her mind.

Kim Kardashian you *might* have overdone the leather (we won’t mention the shades)

Kim Kardashian has been making some very...err...interesting fashion choices lately.
Kim KardashianKim Kardashian went for an all-out leather look. Copyright [Rex]We all know that Kim Kardashian is a fan of leather, but we think that today's ensemble might just be a little too much.
 And that's before we've even got onto those shades.
Kim Kardashian has touched down in London-town (sorry, we couldn't resist) with her sisters in her full-on leather outfit.
Kimmy K donned a pair of her trademark black leather thigh-high boots.
However, she then teamed the boots with a shiny leather jacket and a pair of weird sunglasses.
Kim KardashianKim Kardashian went for leather boots and a jacket. Copyright [Rex]At first we thought the shades were actually an eye mask. Well, what do we know. Either way, we think they're slightly unnecessary given that it hasn't been sunny in London for what feels like a million years.
Shades aside, Kim Kardashian seems to have a bit of an obsession with leather at the moment.
From peplum tops to leather leggings, to mini skirts to jackets, we don't think we've seen her in an outfit which doesn't involve some form of the stuff.
Kim KardashianKim Kardashian without her weird shades. Copyright [Splash]However, given how cold it is in the UK at the moment, at least Kim Kardashian will be cosy.
During her stay in Blighty, Kim Kardashian also seems keen to have a get together with Kate Middleton.
The reality star said: "We'd love to [see Kate Middleton], are you kidding? We all love her! I'd call her up and ask her to lunch. She's amazing."
Maybe Kim could give Kate a pair of those sunglasses. Now that we'd love to see

I’m a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here Line Up: Our first impressions

Today ITV officially announced the full line up for this year's 'I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here'.
The I'm A Celebrity Get Me Out Of Here line up has been officially announced. [ITV]

With this year's celebrity campers jetting off to the Australia today, omg! gives its verdict on what we expect from this year's batch.
The most likely to 'do a Myleene': Helen Flanagan
Helen will more than likely be spending her time under the waterfall. [ITV]
She's spent the majority of the last 12 months posing with her boobs on show so we reckon that Helen will feel right at home standing in a bikini underneath the camp's resident waterfall. And we're sure quite a few male viewers won't mind either.
The most likely to not be phased by the bushtucker trials: David Haye
David Hayes shouldn't find the bushtucker trials too difficult. [ITV]
The former World Boxing Association heavyweight champion claims that his biggest fear is 'losing'. Well if this is the case David should be pretty darn good when he is faced with the gruesome bushtucker trials.
The one who won't cope with the lack of food: Colin Baker
Colin may find the rations difficult to stomach. [ITV]
We're not being rude here, the Doctor Who veteran has admitted that he would give up alcohol 'at the drop of a hat' but when it comes to eating 'there isn't a fridge he wouldn't be able to raid in the middle of the night'. Good luck with the beans and rice Colin.
The most likely to keep the camp in high spirits: Brian Conely
Brian will keep the campmates laughing [ITV]
Comedian and presenter Brian Conely is seen rarely without a smile. The former face of ITV entertainment is probably looking to relive his glory days so expect a stream of jokes- both good and bad.
The most likely to be challenged by the bush tucker trials: Eric Bristow
Eric could find the trials a challenge. [ITV]
Yes, technically speaking Eric is a sportsman. But when you consider his sport is darts we can't imagine Eric will be the most active member of the camp. Still, he could surprise us all and take home ten stars in the first bushtucker trial.
The most likely to throw a showbiz hissy fit: Hugo Taylor
Hugo will be a long way from luxurious Chelsea. [ITV]
Former 'Made in Chelsea' star Hugo couldn't be further out of his comfort zone in the middle of the Australian jungle. We predict his first reaction to the camp will be along the lines of: 'What do you mean we aren't sleeping under 500 thread count Egyptian cotton sheets?'
The early favourite to win: Charlie Brooks
Charlie could be the early favourite to win. [ITV]
After spending the best part of a decade on our screens portraying the scheming Janine Butcher, Charlie is arguably one the most well known celebrities this year. If she manages to come across as anything but her on screen alter ego then we think she is in with a good chance of being crowned Queen of the Jungle.

The mum of the camp: Linda Robson
We suspect Linda will be the mum of the camp. [ITV]
The 'Birds of a Feather' actress seems to be the safest bet on becoming camp mother to the younger contestants. She's already admitted that the most difficult part of the show will be leaving her family behind but we're sure there will be more than a few petrified celebs she will be able to Mother.
The controversial one: Nadine Dorries
Nadine could ruffle a few feathers in camp. [ITV]
Outspoken Conservative MP Nadine looks like she could be this year's controversial contestant. Already ruffling feathers in parliament- MP's have called for her suspension for even signing up to the show- we can see Nadine spearheading some of the camps most heated of debates.
The eye candy of the camp: Ashley Roberts
Ashley will be bringing some glanmour to the jungle. [ITV]
It seems that ITV have taken it upon themselves to keep as many members of the Pussycat Dolls in pocket as possible. Nicole Scherzinger's former band mate spent most of her time looking pretty when performing in the popular group so we expect much of the same from her in the jungle.

Monday, November 5, 2012

Celebrities support superstorm Sandy victims

Bon Jovi and Christina Aguilera were among many stars the televised hurricane Sandy concert (© AP)
A whole host of A-list stars have come out to support those affected by last week’s devastating superstorm Sandy, which swept across several states on the east coast of America. Hundreds of thousands were touched by the storm, with many left without electricity and water and some rendered homeless. Over 100 people have so far been confirmed dead as a result of the worst storms to hit America in decades.
The American Red Cross joined forces with NBC over the weekend to put on a live televised concert – Hurricane Sandy: Coming Together – which included guest appearances from Bon Jovi, Bruce Springsteen, Christina Aguilera, Billy Joel, Steven Tyler, Mary J Blige, Tina Fey, Danny DeVito and Whoopi Goldberg.
The TV appeal, hosted by The Today Show’s Matt Lauer, raked in almost $23 million, which will all go towards helping those affected by the storm and the re-building of the worst hit areas of the US. Bon Jovi performed an unplugged version of Living On A Prayer, while Steven Tyler, Billy Joel and Bruce Springsteen sang a rendition of Under The Boardwalk, to raise awareness of the New Jersey coastline that was one of the worst hit areas.
Christina Aguilera, who hails from New York, took to the stage during the telethon for a touching performance of her hit Beautiful.
Ben Stiller was spotted helping out at a shelter in New York (© PA)
Away from the TV screen, Ben Stiller was spotted helping out at a shelter in Brooklyn, New York, serving food to those in need.
He tweeted: “Lots of respect for all the people working at homeless shelters and those still not able to get home or power. @NYCDHS
Alec Baldwin is also said to have visited New York University students at their shelter following their evacuation last week.
Lady Gaga has helped to raise awareness of those hit by the storm by sharing an unreleased demo she wrote when she was 16, entitled No Floods. The singer’s track has been online since 2009 but she has shared it again in honour of those who were impacted in her home city New York, including her family.
"I wrote this song when I was 16. so weird to hear it now because of hurricane. 'NO FLOODS' hope this will cheer u up,” she tweeted to her millions of Twitter followers.
The Born This Way singer has also promised to help those in her native city as soon as she has a spare moment in her busy tour schedule.
Plenty of other celebrities have shown their support on Twitter over the past few days, sending their wishes and urging people to help by donating money.
Denise Richards tweeted: ‘Love & prayers to those devastated by the hurricane… please help by texting REDCROSS to 09000 to donate $10 to disaster relief #Sandy.”
Katy Perry said: “Sending east coasters light and love. Especially light!”
She later followed up with: “You've sent love and light to the East Coast. Now it's time to send warm meals and shelter! Text RED CROSS To 90999 to donate $10 now.”
Desperate Housewives star Eva Longoria has used Twitter to share the stories of others, by retweeting people who have helped out in the aftermath of the hurricane. She has also been urging people to donate to the various charities that are providing aid to those who need it the most.
“God bless all the emergency crews and volunteers who are working hard on the east coast! #SandyHelp,” Eva posted.
British star Ricky Gervais, who now lives in the US, helped to raise awareness of an unofficial New York marathon that took place. Over a thousand people took part by running four laps of Central Park, and he was there to support them.
“In Central Park watching all the runners just doing the marathon anyway. Brilliant. Hope everyone who sponsored for charity still pays up,” he posted.

Rodgers salutes superb Suarez

Luis Suarez, centre, was on top form against Newcastle
Luis Suarez, centre, was on top form against Newcastle
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers hailed an "unplayable" Luis Suarez after the Uruguay striker rescued his side once again in a 1-1 draw against Newcastle at Anfield.
Suarez scored a brilliant equaliser after controlling a long ball from Jose Enrique with his shoulder before dribbling around goalkeeper Tim Krul. Suarez underlined his all-round danger to Newcastle when Magpies captain Fabricio Coloccini was shown a straight red card for a foul on him late on.
"I thought he was unplayable. Coloccini getting sent off was frustration," said the Reds boss. "I don't think he could get near him (Suarez) today. He has been a great player over these last number of years for Newcastle. Suarez is so bright, so clever, he's a world-class striker. On that form today he really frustrates and provokes defenders."
The 25-year-old has now scored seven goals in his last nine league matches - more than half of Liverpool's total for the entire season. The only downside to the performance was that, once again, Liverpool could not finish off their numerous opportunities.
"It's five draws in 10 league games and of those draws we should have won at least three of them," admitted Rodgers. "That is the margins we are working to at the moment. I thought our performance was outstanding. We were terrific. First-half our possession and intensity was relentless but we switched off just before half-time."
Newcastle manager Alan Pardew saw his side extend their run at Anfield without a league win to 18 matches.
Yohan Cabaye's goal gave him hope they could end that sequence and although he went to speak to referee Anthony Taylor on the pitch at the final whistle he had no real complaints about the red card.
"It was a tough day for us. I honestly felt that when we scored the first goal it would win the game," said Pardew, who said he did not think they would appeal Coloccini's sending-off.
Pardew added: "We had made it very difficult for them, as sharp as they were because they passed and moved the ball really well, and I felt we could get that second goal on the break.
"I went to see the ref at the end because I wanted to see what it (the red card) was for. He said it was dangerous intent. Looking at the video it doesn't look too good from one angle in particular."

X Factor style wars

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    We're halfway through the ninth series of the X Factor and so the leading ladies have decided to heat things up a bit. Both Nicole and Tulisa looked stunning on Sunday night's results show, but which look do you prefer? Remember, you can tweet us @MSNHer

    Style wars: Nicole v Tulisa
    An error occurred while trying to display the data. Please try again later.

    Which judge do you think looks best?

    Thanks for being one of the first people to vote. Results will be available soon. Check for results
    1. 72 %
      Nicole
      823 votes
    2. 28 %
      Tulisa
      314 votes

    Is Simon Cowell rekindling his romance with former fiancee Mehzgan Hussainy?

    Could Simon Cowell be rethinking his engagement to Mehzgan Hussainy?
    Simon and Mehzgan split back in February. Copyright: [PA]

    Simon has been spotted out and about with Mezhgan in Beverly Hills 'running errands'.
    Now, they hardly looked all smoochy and we do know how close by Simon likes to keep his exes, just ask Sinitta, so we reckon this could be a whole load of nothing.
    Not to forget that Simon has previously called his engagement to Mehzgan, 'one big mistake' so we find it hard to believe either would be running back together.
    But then again, who 'runs errands' with an ex?!

    Simon split with the lady with the hardest to pronounce name in the world back in February after a two year engagement.
    When Simon announced he was planning on getting hitched the world collectively gasped at the thought of Mr X Factor settling down.
    After all Simon was never exactly a one woman type of guy, was he?
    And since the split he has basically proved us right for gasping time and time again, after being linked to countless ladies.
    Just recently Si was linked with Jenson Button's ex, Louise Griffiths after the pair were spotted on a series of romantic dates and ol' Lou seemed simply smitten.
    Simon has since been linked recently with Louis Griffiths. Copyright: [wenn]
    However, just weeks before that the minted X Factor mogul was spotted snogging the face off Carmen Electra.

    Tess Daly gets boobs out on Strictly Come Dancing, new Holly Willoughby alert?

    Tess Daly is known for her amazing figure - she was a model, after all - and we're used to seeing her flaunting her long legs and flat stomach.
    Tess DalyTess Daly flaunted her impressive cleavage last night. Copyright [BBC]However, this weekend on Strictly Come Dancing, Tess Daly drew attention to her boobs - so much so that it actually reminded us of Holly Willoughby's daring ensembles when she was hosting Dancing on Ice.
     
    Tess Daly looked amazing in a bright red dress with a low V neckline which showed her cleavage to perfection.
    The dress also featured a very daring split up the front - cue us gawping/staring/girl crushing.
    Tess DalyTess Daly usually favours higher necklines. Copyright [Rex]Back to the boobs, though - Tess' cleavage sent Twitter into an absolute flurry, with viewers questioning whether the Strictly host has had a boob job.
    One tweeter said: "Has Tess Daly always had big boobs? Where have they come from?"
    Another commented: "Has Tess Daly overinflated her boobs this week?"
    Holly WilloughbyHolly Willoughby was the queen of daring necklines during Dancing on Ice. Copyright [Rex]A spokesman for Tess Daly refused to comment on the boob job rumours last night.
    However, we don't think Tess has resorted to surgery - we're just used to seeing her more covered up as she usually favours high necklines and glamorous full-length gowns.
    But if she keeps up these cleavage-flashing ensembles, then we reckon she could very well steal Holly Willoughby's Best Boobs on TV crown.

    Friday, November 2, 2012

    Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart make first joint TV appearance, look pretty happy about it

    When Kristen Stewart first confirmed that she'd cheated on Robert Pattinson with a married man, we were worried about the promotional trail for the final Twilight movie.
    Robert Pattinson and Kristen StewartRobert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart were full of smiles. Copyright [MTV News]After all, Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson would be reunited to promote Twilight: Breaking Dawn Part 2, and we were expecting things to be very awkward.
     
    However, now it seems that Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson are very much back together - and were pretty blimmin' happy about it on their first joint TV appearance since the cheating scandal.
    Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart looked relaxed and happy during their TV appearance. Copyright [MTV News]Kristen Stewart and Robert Pattinson were joined by Taylor Lautner on MTV News, but the pair only seemed to have eyes for each other - laughing and joking their way through the interview and looking like nothing bad had ever happened.
    Both stars looked relaxed and casual for the interview, with Kristen donning an oversized jumper and jeans.
    However, questions about their relationship were clearly off limits. They chatted about their Halloween costumes, and then Robert Pattinson made a joke about the famous sex scene in the last Twilight movie.
    Robert Pattinson and Kristen StewartCheating? What cheating? Copyright [MTV News]
    He said: "I'd imagine it's quite like the scene where she's doing the pottery in Ghost."
    Kristen then joked that she was responsible for Robert Pattinson and Taylor Lautner's success - as she had a say in their casting.
    She joked: "I take full credit for both of those guys, actually."

    Lydia Bright gets all wintery in furry Russain hat: OMGorge or OMGross?! We just can’t decide!

    Lydia Bright was looking very cosy as she rocked up to Everything Everywhere Launch Party last night.
    Do you love Lydia's furry head gear? We just can't decide! Copyright: [rex]

    As well as sporting her usual signature loved up glow with her man Tom Kilbey, Lyds was also looking very toasty in this furry Russain style hat.
    We think we kind of love it, especially in this weather, but have to check: is it OMGorge or OMGross?

    Lydia teamed her furry head gear with what appears to be a chequered trouser suit, now *this* we are really not sure about.
    We are used to ogling the TOWIE star's wardrobe so were surprised to see her in something we didn't absolutely love!
    It's nice but we could swear our Grandpa has exactly the same ensemble, minus the furry hat and stole!
    However, Lydia's hat was not only an accessory but also a necessity as she had been indulging in some rather wintery fun earlier in the evening.
    Lydia's hat was not just an accessory, it was a necessity! Copyright: [rex]
    Yep, Lydia nipped off for a bit of ice skating before arriving at the party.
    We actually can't believe it's ice skating season already - we still feel like we should be in our bikinis.
    However, there is no denying that winter is almost definitely here, but once that winter coat goes on it will not be coming off until at least March.

    Alt-J celebrate Mercury Prize win

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    Alt-J were announced as winners of the Mercury Prize
    Alt-J were announced as winners of the Mercury Prize
    Indie quartet Alt-J won the Barclaycard Mercury Prize for their debut album An Awesome Wave and promised to celebrate in very un-rock 'n' roll style - by taking their parents out for dinner.
    The group, who met at Leeds University in 2007, looked stunned as they collected the award - despite being the bookies' favourites as the ceremony got under way.
    They picked up the Ă‚£20,000 prize at the event at the Roundhouse, in Camden, north London, which was hosted by Lauren Laverne and screened in a brief five-minute slot on Channel 4.
    Accepting the award on stage, the band - Thom Green (drums), Joe Newman (guitar/vocals), Gwil Sainsbury (guitarist/bassist) and Gus Unger-Hamilton (keyboards) - said there were too many people to thank.
    They said: "We might just thank everyone on team Alt-J who has ever made a difference." They also thanked their parents for "not making us get jobs".
    Speaking backstage, Gus said the Ă‚£20,000 prize money would not change their lives too much. He said: "It won't nearly pay off our student loans." But he admitted to being a fan of his own work, saying: "I like listening to it and I think that is a testament to it, it's the same four guys."
    Joe said the band would take their parents out for dinner but would also celebrate in more traditional rock star style.
    He said: "We're going to go and get really p*****, we've just won a Mercury. Christ, I'm going to stay out and carry this as long as I can."
    They beat acts including rapper Plan B to win the award and singer-songwriter Richard Hawley, who missed out again - six years after losing to Arctic Monkeys.

    ‘X Factor will END after next year’ says Simon Cowell’s best pal Sinitta

    Sinitta has revealed that Simon Cowell has said that X Factor will be axed after one more series.
    Sinitta says Simon will can the show after ten years. Copyright: [wenn]

    In true Sinitta fashion, she let slip in an interview with Closer magazine that Simon had always planned to end the show after ten years.
    So there will be one more after this current series and then that will be it.
    She says: "I'm told next year is going to be the last. It'll have been ten years."

    And Simon is her bezzie mate, so we imagine she has only the best sources.
    If this is true then this makes us very sad, just what will we do with our Saturday nights?!
    Sinitta let slip in an interview that Simon is planning to can X Factor. Copyright: [wenn]
    We might have to *gasp* GO OUT! God forbid!
    What will Dermot do? He can't just suddenly start ordering Chinese takeaways and watching Casualty after ten years!
    And we dread to think what might happen to Louis Walsh without X Factor.
    However, it is true to say that although we are loving it, this series of X Factor isn't doing as well as others.
    Pretty much week on week it is facing a thrashing from Strictly Come Dancing in the ratings war and we are worried that this could be pushing Simon's decision.

    Rihanna gets her boobs out on Twitter. Standard.

    We were a bit concerned yesterday when we saw that Rihanna had dressed all demurely for Halloween.
    RihannaRihanna got her boobs out on Twitter. Standard. Copyright [Rihanna]However, it seems that things are back to normal, with Rihanna tweeting a topless photo of herself last night.
     
    Phew, for a moment there we thought Rihanna was going all tame on us.
    RiRi got her boobs out in a sultry Twitpic, and she does look amaze.
    RihannaRihanna during her Halloween night out. Copyright [Rihanna]The picture shows Rihanna in bed wearing a green veil (we think that's left over from her Halloween costume,) with a finger suggestively in her mouth and her arm just about covering up her boobs.
    The star posted the photo after her huge Halloween party, alongside the caption: "The morning after. Happy November!"
    RihannaRihanna opened her party in this demure outfit. Copyright [Splash/WENN]She looks THIS HOT after a night out? No smudged makeup or dodgy PJs or remnants of a McDonalds scattered about the place?
    Rihanna also looked amazing the night before as well. She opened her party in a black skirt and top, before changing into a green dress, stockings and suspenders.
    Chris Brown, on the other hand, chose to turn up to Rihanna's Halloween party dressed up as a terrorist. Charming.
    Rihanna, we're really struggling to see what the attraction is there. Please ditch him.

    Thursday, November 1, 2012

    Corden shows off in pink swimsuit

    James Corden tries his hand at synchronised swimming for A League of Their Own
    James Corden tries his hand at synchronised swimming for A League of Their Own
    James Corden slips into a women's swimsuit as he gets a sync-ing feeling for a TV stunt.
    The presenter and actor joins a synchronised swimming squad for a challenge to be screened in his sporting panel show A League Of Their Own on Friday.
    He and show regulars Jamie Redknapp and Jack Whitehall each try to show off their talents in the pool, in front of an Olympic standard panel of judges.
    They were given just a couple of hours training on the morning of the challenge with the Aquabatix swimming squad, who formed into three teams.
    Andrea Holland, who was on the BBC's commentary panel for the synchronised swimming events at London 2012, was also on hand.
    Viewers will be able to see how they got on at 10pm on Sky 1's A League Of Their Own.

    Dear Chantelle Houghton and Alex Reid...

    As Chantelle Houghton and Alex Reid's public feud turns ever uglier (Chantelle has now taken to Twitter, alleging not only that their relationship fell apart because of another man, but that Alex turned their then-home into a "sex dungeon", among other claims), Dom Bradbury - the man behind AngryBritain - has penned an open letter to the celebs...


    Chantelle Houghton and Alex Reid (PA)


    Dear Chantelle & Alex,


    Fame is a funny thing, a bit like laundry. Some days you have more clean socks than you know what to do with; others you’re turning your pants inside out for another day’s use.


    I’m no relationship counsellor but I’ve bought every issue of OK! you’ve been in* and worn my pants inside out often enough to try and reach out to you both with this open letter, not so much as a fan but more as a close friend and confident.


    "Chantelle, it can’t be easy coming home to find Alex doing the vacuuming in your fishnets especially if he’s also used the last of your favourite lipstick..."


    ...Did it really escape your notice that he’d been pictured in the papers before he met you dressed as a woman, accompanied by a drag queen that bore an uncanny resemblance his ex Katie Price? …


    Let’s face it, Alex’s choice of career is probably a contributing factor to his behaviour, all those knocks to the head in a cage can’t be good for anyone. Marrying Katie Price is proof, if proof was needed, that Alex isn’t ‘all there’.


    And Alex, we all know woman can be tricky, I dare say even your alter-ego Roxanne suffers from the odd bout of PMT, but pregnant woman require extra special handling.


    So, perhaps with hindsight constructing a ‘sex dungeon’ (as Chantelle has claimed) in the living room while Chantelle was eight months pregnant was pushing your luck ever-so-slightly.

    "It’s pretty clear you two, or three if we count Roxanne, aren’t meant to be together."


    Chantelle should’ve stuck with an ordinary boy like Preston, after all pre-Celebrity Big Brother she was just an ordinary girl. Until Alex decides whether he likes boys or girls the most, it’s probably for the best that he just gets a cat for company and Bridget Jones on DVD.


    The trouble is, you two couldn’t wait to ride the wave of celebrity and sell your baby pictures to OK! and rushed headlong into producing a life, one that now needs it’s parents, and not auntie Roxanne. Nor does Dolly need you both airing your dirty laundry on Twitter like Chantelle has today because one day, thanks to the wonders of the internet, it will come back to sucker punch her.


    And just look what sucker punching has done to her dad.


    Your friend,


    AngryBritain.

    Jessica Simpson shows off weight-loss in Halloween Twitpic

    Jessica Simpson has been on a quest to lose her baby weight since she gave birth to little Maxwell back in June.
    Jessica SimpsonJessica Simpson showed off her new body in this Halloween Twitpic. Copyright [Jessica Simpson]And Jessica Simpson has shown off the extent of her weight loss in this Halloween Twitpic today.
     
    Jessica Simpson posed for the snap with her fiance, Eric Johnson and baby daughter Maxwell.
    Dressed as some sort of Scottish sexy milkmaid, Jessica Simpson showed off her svelte waist and toned legs.
    Jessica SimpsonJessica Simpson put on 70 pounds during her pregnancy. Copyright [Splash/WENN]She also flashed rather a lot of that famous cleavage. Well, we would too if our boobs looked like that.
    Jessica Simpson piled on the pounds during her pregnancy after confessing to cravings for macaroni cheese and pop tarts.
    However, since being signed as the face and body of Weight Watchers, Jessica has been on a strict diet and exercise plan.
    Jessica SimpsonJessica Simpson has shed most of the weight over recent weeks. Copyright [Splash]Apparently, she's lost 60 pounds in six months - and it's definitely showing.
    She said of her quest to lose weight: ""I didn't realise it [the weight] didn't all come off with the baby. I'm not a supermodel. My body is not bouncing back like a supermodel. I'm just your everyday woman who is trying to feel good and be healthy for her daughter, her fiancé and herself."
    However, can we take our eyes off Jessica's amazing figure for just a minute to have a good old coo over Maxwell.
    Whoever decided to dress her up as a little chicken deserves a medal.