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Yearly Archives: 2017

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Kensington Palace revealed that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle will say ‘I do’ at St. George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle next May.

The happy couple announced their joyous news yesterday morning, much to the delight of the public.

It is understood that the venue is extremely important to both Harry and Meghan, who have spent a lot of time at Windsor Castle

The pair opened up about the proposal during their first television interview yesterday evening. Harry shared that he proposed when they were at home in their cottage.

Meghan admitted that she said yes to his proposal so quickly that he didn’t even get a chance to put the ring on her finger:

'She didn't even let me finish, she said can I say yes, can I say yes, and I had the ring in my finger and I was like can I – can I give you the ring?' Harry shared.

The royal family are thrilled about Harry and Meghan’s engagement. However, Harry revealed that there was one very important person missing from the celebrations.

During their first interview together, Harry shared that he missed his late-mum Diana a lot.

He wanted to make sure that his mum was still part of their journey, so he added diamonds from her personal jewellery collection to Meghan’s engagement ring.

He shared, 'The little diamonds either side are from my mother’s jewellery collection to make sure that she’s with us on this – on this crazy journey together.'

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A teenager in the UK was found guilty of plotting an unexecuted act of terrorism at a Justin Bieber concert a number of months ago.

The plot came just one month after the devastating Manchester attack, which killed 22 people and injured many more.

The Welsh 17-year-old, who cannot be named as he is a minor, faced the court this week and was found guilty of 'planning to drive a car into a crowd of people in Cardiff in a Daesh-inspired terror attack.'

He also planned to execute attacks on Cardiff Castle, the Capitol Shopping Centre, and the Justin Bieber concert on June 30. 

Police also found a hammer,knife and 'martyrdom letter' on searching his home.

In the note, the teen described himself as  'a soldier of the Islamic State,' according to The Guardian.

In court, he denied the charges and told the judge: 

'I wanted to see how easy it was for people who had an interest in terrorism to go online and get information because the police and the government are trying to crack down on terrorism and radicalization,' The Guardian reports

'I wanted to see if it was possible, not for me but from someone else's point of view.'

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In case you hadn't been outside in days, Ireland has been experiencing a bout of weather with only one word to describe it – baltic. 

Unfortunately, the cold snap is here for the foreseeable future, and it's set to get colder. 

Today, temperatures will sit at around 6 degrees, and we can expect a moderate breeze. 

 Asd for tonight, things are set to get frosty.

'It will be cold with lowest temperatures between -1 and +1 degree leading to frost and icy patches as northerly winds decrease light to moderate but remain fresh near the coast.'

Some places will see lows of -2 degrees. 

Tomorrow will also be cold, with highest temperatures of 5-7 degrees. 

The rest of the week is set to see further low temperatures as well as rain showers in many parts.

However, by Friday we should see rainier weather with slightly higher temperatures. Not sure if we'd rather have the rain or the cold tbh. 

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The arrival of the festive period brings with it the onset of countless family arguments regarding the appointment of a designated driver. 

While some people are more than happy to go on the dry to ensure a safe trip home for all involved, others aren't quite as quick to offer their services, and stick to soft drinks for the night.

In an attempt to counteract the latter, Coca-Cola HBC Ireland and Northern Ireland today launched its 13th annual Designated Driver campaign, which encourages people across the island of Ireland to give the ‘Gift of a Lift’ to friends and loved ones this Christmas.

And as one of the most appreciated gestures you can give to family and friends is the freedom to enjoy all the fun that Christmas offers by providing the ‘gift of lift’, Coca-Cola is adamant the designer driver needs rewarding too.

To support these selfless designated drivers this season, Coca-Cola will once again offer two free drinks from the Coca-Cola range or an alcohol-free ‘Coketail’ that can be redeemed in participating bars and restaurants across Ireland and Northern Ireland.

 And that's not all!

This year Coca-Cola is also making it even easier for designated drivers to claim their free drinks – with digital vouchers that can be stored in the mobile wallet app on their smart phones.

The campaign, which is fronted by 2017 All-Ireland Football and Hurling finalists and rivals, Dublin’s Paul Flynn; Mayo’s Aidan O’Shea; Galway’s Gearoid McInerney, and Waterford’s Austin Gleeson,as well as Ulster and Ireland rugby star Craig Gilroy has the lads' full backing.

“Christmas is a time when we all like to catch up with loved one. It’s an opportunity to go out with friends and family who you don’t see as often as you would like throughout the year, " said Aidan O’Shea.  "Nights out are a big part of the season but, let’s face it, getting home can sometimes be a challenge!"

“Being a designated driver is one of the best gifts you can give over the holiday season to help keep your mates safe, and it doesn’t cost a thing. Given my sporting commitments, I’m often the designated driver but I certainly appreciate it when the favour is returned."
 

 
“I’m delighted to support Coca-Cola with this campaign; helping to get the word out to encourage everyone to give the gift of a lift this Christmas. If you are the designated driver, be sure to claim your two free drinks!"

In the Republic of Ireland, the Designated Driver campaign is supported by An Garda Síochána, the Road Safety Authority and Drinkaware. It is also backed by the Licensed Vintners Association, the Vintners Federation of Ireland, the Restaurants Association of Ireland, and the Irish Hotels Federation.

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At this stage, KUWTK fans have reached a peak of desperation in their thirst for knowledge regarding Kylie Jenner's alleged pregnancy. 

The only person who can put us out of our misery is the woman herself (or Kris) and it doesn't seem like we'll be getting any answers any time soon. 

Fans have taken to analysing every detail of Ky's social media posts, searching for meaning and symbolism like we're back in Leaving Cert English Paper 1. 

 

A post shared by Kylie (@kyliejenner) on

The reality TV star hosted Thanksgiving dinner for her family last week, and over the weekend, theories regarding one particular Snapchat post began to circulate. 

Kourtney Kardashian uploaded a snap of Kylie's Thanksgiving cookies to her Snapchat that had fans in a frenzy. 

The rice krispy treats were made to resemble turkeys, but one turkey in particular caught our eye (thanks to Kourt's handy arrow). 

One turkey seems to have a pregnancy belly, unlike the rest. 

Fans are seeing this an a sign that Kylie really is with child. 

However, others think that perhaps the pregnant turkey is in homage to big sister Kim, who is expecting a baby via surrogate early next year. 

 

A post shared by Kylie (@kyliejenner) on

Another theory is that Kylie has been consistently hinting at the sex of her imminent arrival thought the prolific use of pink on her social media.

Thanksgiving was no different, with a pink theme for the decorations. 

Could they just tell us already?

 

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It's not often that Beyoncé misses the mark.

From secret album drops to iconic baby announcements, she pretty much slays at everything she ever does, and with some of the most loyal fans in the entertainment industry, the singer could sell just about anything she put her name on. 

However, it looks like not everyone is a fan of Queen Bey's latest piece of merchandise.

As part of her 'holiday' collection, the star has released one of the most underwhelming Christmas jumper we have ever laid our eyes on.

It's lackluster design features the words 'Beyoncé Holiday Sweater' etched across a jet-black jumper, in what looks like a child's handwriting.

Needless to say, infuriated fans have taken to Twitter to express their frustration, with some suggesting that Beyoncé simply didn't send enough time designing the garment.

The jumper sells online for $55 (€46), alongside other festive Beyoncé-themed products such as baubles, phone covers, wrapping paper and even baby grows! 

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We don't have to visit Moaning Myrtel's bathroom to experience the magic of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets anymore. 

The iconic flick is the second of the HP films to be added to the Harry Potter Live Concert Tour. 

Fifteen years since the movie first hit our cinema screens (yes, we feel old now) it's being given a new lease of live thanks to a live orchestra. 

Image result for harry potter brilliant

Audiences will be able to relive the magic of the film in high-definition on a 60-foot screen, while the spine-tingling Harry Potter score is recreated by live musicians. 

'Since we first debuted the Harry Potter Concert Series, the response from both film and music fans has been phenomenal' said Senbla CEO Ollie Rosenblatt.  

'The shows really are unforgettable and remind us why Harry Potter has meant so much to so many people.'

'To see these seminal films with a huge orchestra is beyond enthralling. We are delighted to bring Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in Concert to audiences around the UK and to continue this magical and immersive experience.'

The experience is coming to Dublin's 3 Arena on December 6, but you better be quick.

Tickets are already on sale now from Ticketmaster for €65.45 for four people.

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Emily Ratajkowski has been sharing snaps of her new swimwear collection on Instagram all week, and when the line finally dropped, fans couldn't get enough of the sexy, innovative collection. 

However, not everyone was so impressed with Inamorata.

Ready-to-wear and swimwear designer Lisa Marie Fernandez has called out the model, claiming that two of the designs from her collection were copied from Fernandez's own collection. 

 

A post shared by Emily Ratajkowski (@emrata) on

According to Business of Fashion, the day after Emily released her line, Fernandez sent her a cease-and-desist letter. 

Fernandez alleges that two separate styles of swimwear were copied from her.

First, Fernandez claims that Ratajkowski's Vulcan bikini top is akin to her Leandra style bikini top. 

Both are off-the-shoulder bikini tops with a slightly baggy finish.

The second item called to question is Ratajkowski's Cardiff swimsuit, which features a distinctive cut-out bow front.

Fernandez alleges that the Cardiff suit is a copy of her Triple Poppy Maillot suit, which has the same design, but with two bows rather than three.  

 

A post shared by Emily Ratajkowski (@emrata) on

Fernandez has been sharing the coverage of the story with her online followers.

Neither Inamorata nor Ratajkowski have commented on the allegations. 

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Let’s be real here; if you’re not eating chocolate for breakfast on the morning of December 25, you’re doing it wrong.

Christmas and chocolate always have, and always will, go hand in hand, so we are pumped by the launch of this year’s Cadbury’s CADVENT campaign.

The good folk at the wonder emporium that is Cadbury wants everyone to do their bit to spread the festive spirit this year, and that is where you guys come in.

So, how does it work exactly?

Every person that tweets using #Cadvent during the month of December will help to push the dial on the giant Cadbury Joy-o-Meter, revealing a new prize to be given away each day in the countdown to Christmas.

And that’s not all!

The Cadbury Christmas Parades will be the highlight of this year’s Cadvent celebrations, travelling around the country and making three very special appearances in local towns throughout the month of December.

The parades will tell the story of a young child’s dream that takes him on a magical journey to meet the Master of Joy. The story will be brought to life with a wonderful array of wacky floats, novel characters and creative entertainment that brings to life the magic of Christmas through a child’s eyes.

Always wanted to visit Lapland at Christmas? This year, Cadbury can get you there (almost)!

The Cadbury Cadventure Experience will be popping up at locations across the country to give people the chance to take a ride on Santa’s sleigh through snowy Lapland to help him deliver presents on Christmas Eve.

Ladies, it’s time to take your turn on the sleigh and receive a video of the special experience to take home and keep as a once in a lifetime Christmas memory.

Cadbury Cadvent ambassador and former Westlife sensation Kian Egan is almost excited as us, saying: “I am delighted to be on board with Cadvent this year.”

“Cadbury have loads of great family activities planned for the month of December which will help to get everyone into the Christmas spirit. I can’t wait for the first parade in Dublin; it sounds like it’s going to be amazing.”

Here are all the deets you need.

PARADES:

5pm, Sunday 3rd December: Sandymount, Co Dublin

5pm, Sunday 10th December:  Kinsale, Co Cork

5pm, Sunday 17th December: Donegal Town, Co Donegal

GREEN SCREEN ACTIVATIONS:

Saturday 2nd December: Arthur’s Quay Shopping Centre, Co Limerick

Saturday 9th December: Mahon Point Shopping Centre, Co Cork

Saturday 16th December: Jervis Street Shopping Centre, Co Dublin

Saturday 23rd December: Dundrum Town Centre, Co Dublin

Ladies, it really is beginning to look a lot like Christmas…

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Coronation Street actor, Bruno Langley, has pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting two women in a Manchester music venue in October.

While appearing at Manchester magistrates court today, the soap star entered two guilty pleas and was told he could face a prison sentence in light of the crimes.

According to emerging reports, 34-year-old Langley admitted that he grabbed one woman by the crotch and groped another's breasts and buttocks at the Band on the Wall music venue.

Prosecutor, Karen Saffman, told the court that Langley was intoxicated on the night of the assaults, and provided details of the assaults to those present.

Reading from a victim impact statement, Saffman said: "He grabbed me. Properly grabbed me. It was a rough grab, really right in. Lots of pressure."

“Even though it was through her dress and tights she could feel two or three fingers,” Saffman continued. “She was clearly in shock. She was thinking about hitting him. She said: ‘Did you do that on purpose?’ But he did not reply.”

It is understood the first victim was approached by another woman who confided she had also been assaulted by Langley that same night.

Langley was sacked by ITV in the wake of the police investigation.

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If there is one universal truth we can all agree on, it’s that Christmas is all about children.

Simply put, December is nothing short of purely magical for the little’uns in your life.

While you may love the festive season with every fibre of your being, there’s no denying that the magic dulls somewhat the older you get.

If you’re in the business of fighting this hard fact tooth and nail, why not treat yourself and the smallies in your family to some stunning Christmas events?

While recapturing the magic for yourself, you’ll be providing the little people in your life with a whole host of memories.

Take a look at these…

Santa’s Journey

Take a journey by train through the foothills of the Wicklow mountains, and be sure to stop off at Santa’s Runway, The Talking Trees, Candy Cane Land, and Elves Village.

Warm up with hot drinks and festive treats at the Winter Lodge Café before getting your letters stamped personally by the Big Mans’s team of adorable elves.

Santa’s House Express

Taking place at the 5 Star Palmerstown House Estate, you and the little ones will receive a boarding pass which will allow you to board an enchanting Christmas train and embark on a stunning festive journey.

You will depart from the grounds of Palmerstown Estate and take in the sights and sounds until you reach Santa Claus in his magical manor.

Christmas at Castlecomber Discovery Park

From visiting Mrs Claus in her igloo home to taking part in the elves’ Art Workshop, this is one Christmas event which really captures the magic of the season.

This Christmas wonderland, which is located in the heart of the woodlands, is an absolute must-see.

 

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The Christmas lights are up, the shops are packed with sparkly dresses and the party season well and truly upon us.

And seeing as this year's festivities are already in full swing, it's high time we start stocking our kitchens with all the essential holiday treats.

With that in mind, Lidl has just announced the launch of an Organic Prosecco which is due to hit shelves just in time for New Year's Eve.

The limited edition Prosecco, made with organically grown grapes, will be available in Lidl's 154 stores nationwide for €14.99 from December 27.

Richard Bampfield, Master of Wine said of the Prosecco, "Relatively little Prosecco is made from organically grown grapes, so this is somewhat special and is a particularly expressive example. With bright aromas of pear and white peach, it is not too dry, well balanced and ideal for drinking with friends over the festive period."

So, what does organic means when it comes to wine?

Lidl helps dispel the top three most common myths.

MYTH 1: Organic is More Expensive

Organic may mean less intensive farming practices, but it does require longer periods of work and produce lower yields. However, this this not mean the price of the product has to suffer. Priced at €14.99, Lidl's limited edition Organic Prosecco shows that organic doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg.

MYTH 2: Organic Only Applies to Food

The term 'organic' isn't limited to just food. Lidl's Organic Prosecco Spumante DOC is produced using organically grown grapes, however the cellars are also cleaned purely with recycled water, and the vineyards are managed without the use of chemical fertiliser, herbicide, pesticides and insecticides.

MYTH 3: Drinking Organic Prosecco Means Compromising on Taste

Due to the less intensive farming practice, the grapes are able to fully express their flavour. Lidl's Organic Prosecco Spumante DOC, made using native Glera grapes from the Veneto region, is well balanced, not too dry with bright aromas of pear and white peach.

Lidl's Organic Prosecco Spumante DOC is available in 154 stores nationwide from December 27 while stocks last.

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