thedailymirror--2020-11-24--Freddie Mercury's deeply upsetting last days- agonising pain but wrapped in love

It 's 29 years ago today that Freddie Mercury died after a long battle with AIDS .
The Queen star , who was 45 at the time , slipped away at his beloved home , Garden Lodge , in Kensington , London , having been diagnosed in 1987 .
And his partner Jim Hutton - who died from lung cancer in 2010 aged just 60 - documented Freddie 's final days , sharing the grief and agony that were sprinkled with moments of love and joy .
In the month before his death , the couple holidayed to Switzerland .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ clear to Jim that Freddie 's condition was deteriorating .
Once back at Garden Lodge , the singer took to his bed where he slept and watched television with a rotation of trusted friends including Jim and his ex-girlfriend , Mary Austin .
Despite reports claiming Freddie 's bedroom was turned into a 'mini hospital ' , Jim said the only sign of illness was a drip stand by the bed in case the star needed a blood transfusion .
According to Jim 's account in his autobiography , Mercury and Me , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ apart from painkillers two weeks before his death .
As he grew weaker , he also stopped eating solid foods , consuming only fruit and fruit juices .
Witnessing the star vanishing before their eyes , Jim said there was some debate about removing the wedding ring he had given to Freddie in case his fingers swelled after he 'd gone .
But Freddie was adamant that it stay , and was even cremated with it .
It was on Thursday , November 21 that Jim realised his time with Freddie was coming @ @ @ @ @ @ @ last time the ailing star managed to muster the strength to appear at his bedroom window and shout 'cooee ' to Jim as he tended the garden .
Jim wrote : `` I knew that the end was very near .
That night I took special care of him .
He dozed and I lay next to him on top of the bed .
He only had to elbow me gently and I ’ d be awake if he wanted anything .
`` When dawn broke , I was already wide awake , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asleep , cuddled inside my arm and holding on to my hand .
`` Every so often he ’ d softly squeeze it .
'Do you love me ? '
he ’ d asked when he woke .
More than ever he wanted to hear how much he was treasured .
'Yes , I love you , ' I whispered and kissed him on the forehead . ''
On the morning of November 24 , Freddie woke at 6am and spoke what would be his last two words : 'Pee , Pee ' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ star to the toilet , Jim carried him back to the bed .
But as he lowered him , he heard a 'deafening crack ' .
`` It sounded like one of Freddie ’ s bones breaking , cracking like the branch of a tree .
He screamed out in pain and went into a convulsion , '' Jim said of the heartbreaking scenes .
As Freddie slipped off into sleep , the doctor arrived and stayed with him all afternoon and into the evening .
As soon as he left , Jim @ @ @ @ @ @ @ he needed the toilet .
Uncertain about carrying him after the awful events of the morning , Jim went to get help .
But by the time he returned , he said Freddie had had an accident .
And it was as he changed the sheets and put his partner into clean clothes that Freddie made his final motion before passing away .
Jim recalled : `` As I was changing Freddie into a clean T-shirt and pair of boxer shorts , I felt him try to raise his left leg to help @ @ @ @ @ @ @ thing he did .
I looked down at him , knowing he was dead . ''
Devastated , Jim took Freddie in his arms and kissed him .
His eyes were still open but the pain and suffering had disappeared from his face .
`` I can remember the expression on his face – and when I go to sleep every night , it ’ s still there in front of me , '' Jim continued .
`` He looked radiant .
One minute he was a boy with a gaunt , sad @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a picture of ecstasy .
Freddie ’ s whole face went back to everything it had been before .
He looked finally and totally at peace .
Seeing him like that made me happy in my sadness .
I felt an overwhelming sense of relief .
I knew that he was no longer in pain . ''
There was a wind-up carriage clock by the bed that Jim had given to Freddie , and he stopped the fly-wheel at the exact time of his passing .
`` It read 12 minutes past seven @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ ve never started it again . ''

Queen legend Freddie Mercury died from AIDS 30 years ago today, and partner Jim Hutton shared a devastating but touching insight into their final days together
It's the 30th anniversary of the day that Freddie Mercury died after a long battle with AIDS.
The Queen star, who was 45 at the time, slipped away at his beloved home, Garden Lodge, in Kensington, London, having been diagnosed in 1987.
And his partner Jim Hutton - who died from lung cancer in 2010 aged just 60 - documented Freddie's final days, sharing the grief and agony that were sprinkled with moments of love and joy.
In the month before his death, the couple holidayed to Switzerland. But on their return, it was clear to Jim that Freddie's condition was deteriorating.
Image: Redferns) Redferns)
Once back at Garden Lodge, the singer took to his bed where he slept and watched television with a rotation of trusted friends including Jim and his ex-girlfriend, Mary Austin.
Despite reports claiming Freddie's bedroom was turned into a 'mini hospital', Jim said the only sign of illness was a drip stand by the bed in case the star needed a blood transfusion.
According to Jim's account in his autobiography, Mercury and Me, Freddie decided to stop taking all medication apart from painkillers two weeks before his death.
As he grew weaker, he also stopped eating solid foods, consuming only fruit and fruit juices.
Witnessing the star vanishing before their eyes, Jim said there was some debate about removing the wedding ring he had given to Freddie in case his fingers swelled after he'd gone.
But Freddie was adamant that it stay, and was even cremated with it.
It was on Thursday, November 21 that Jim realised his time with Freddie was coming to an end. It was the last time the ailing star managed to muster the strength to appear at his bedroom window and shout 'cooee' to Jim as he tended the garden.
Jim wrote: "I knew that the end was very near. That night I took special care of him. He dozed and I lay next to him on top of the bed. He only had to elbow me gently and I’d be awake if he wanted anything.
Image: Hulton Archive) Hulton Archive)
"When dawn broke, I was already wide awake, quietly watching television. Freddie was still asleep, cuddled inside my arm and holding on to my hand.
"Every so often he’d softly squeeze it. 'Do you love me?' he’d asked when he woke. More than ever he wanted to hear how much he was treasured. 'Yes, I love you,' I whispered and kissed him on the forehead."
On the morning of November 24, Freddie woke at 6am and spoke what would be his last two words: 'Pee, Pee'.
After helping the 'terribly weak' star to the toilet, Jim carried him back to the bed. But as he lowered him, he heard a 'deafening crack'.
"It sounded like one of Freddie’s bones breaking, cracking like the branch of a tree. He screamed out in pain and went into a convulsion," Jim said of the heartbreaking scenes.
As Freddie slipped off into sleep, the doctor arrived and stayed with him all afternoon and into the evening.
As soon as he left, Jim went to join Freddie who indicted that he needed the toilet. Uncertain about carrying him after the awful events of the morning, Jim went to get help.
But by the time he returned, he said Freddie had had an accident. And it was as he changed the sheets and put his partner into clean clothes that Freddie made his final motion before passing away.
Jim recalled: "As I was changing Freddie into a clean T-shirt and pair of boxer shorts, I felt him try to raise his left leg to help a little. It was the last thing he did. I looked down at him, knowing he was dead."
Devastated, Jim took Freddie in his arms and kissed him. His eyes were still open but the pain and suffering had disappeared from his face.
"I can remember the expression on his face – and when I go to sleep every night, it’s still there in front of me," Jim continued.
"He looked radiant. One minute he was a boy with a gaunt, sad little face and the next he was a picture of ecstasy. Freddie’s whole face went back to everything it had been before. He looked finally and totally at peace. Seeing him like that made me happy in my sadness. I felt an overwhelming sense of relief. I knew that he was no longer in pain."
There was a wind-up carriage clock by the bed that Jim had given to Freddie, and he stopped the fly-wheel at the exact time of his passing.
"It read 12 minutes past seven," he added. "I’ve never started it again."
Do you have a story to sell? Get in touch with us at webcelebs@trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 33033.


thedailymirror--2020-11-24--Inside the hotel where everything is gold - even the toilets, pool and food

The world 's first gold-plated hotel has opened its doors , and it 's as ridiculously luxurious as you 'd expect .
Everything is decked out in gold , whether it 's the golden tiles that cover the hotel exterior , the lobby halls , or the gold bathtubs , infinity pool and toilets .
Oh , and it 's not just the decor that 's golden ; the hotel restaurants serves up 24k-carat STEAKS .
It will come as no surprise that the Dolce Hanoi Golden Lake hotel in Hanoi , Vietnam , is a 5-star property .
Operated @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lavish hotel overlooks the Giang Vo lake - and yes , some of the suites have pretty incredible views of the landscape .
Although you 'd expect a hotel that 's gold-plated to have a ridiculous price tag , it 's actually surprisingly cheaper than you 'd think .
In fact , there are stays available from £142 a night - based on two people sharing .
For example , you can book a Golden Getaway Package from £142 which includes a night in a classic room , breakfast , lunch or dinner @ @ @ @ @ @ @ even a tour of the hotel ) .
Rooms are pretty swish in the hotel , with huge beds and ensuite bathrooms .
Oh , and all of the appliances are gold-plated of course .
The luxury hotel also boasts some incredible suites , for example the 184sq m Presidential Suite which includes a huge bedroom , a golden freestanding tub , and even a private sauna .
Another highlight includes the 200sqm rooftop infinity pool , which itself would be pretty spectacular thanks to its views over the Giang Vo Lake .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ about this one as it 's all golden tiles - a strong contender for our top picks of the world 's most incredible infinity pools .
( For those looking for a touch of pampering , the hotel also includes a spa and fitness centre ) .
Those who get peckish will have a choice of three restaurants , with meals served on 24K-Gold plated dining ware ( nothing else would be as fitting ) .
For something pretty unique , the menu also includes a 24K Golden Tomahawk Steak ( covered in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gold - that would not make for a tasty meal ! )
.
You can find out more about the hotel on dolcehanoigoldenlake.com .
At the time of writing , the FCDO currently advises Brits against travel to Vietnam .
The country has also closed its borders to foreign nationals - you can find out more in the FCDO Vietnam travel advice .

The world's first gold-plated hotel has opened and everything is golden hued from the toilets to the infinity pool and even some of the food
Inside the hotel where everything is gold including the toilets, pool and food
The world's first gold-plated hotel has opened its doors, and it's as ridiculously luxurious as you'd expect.
Everything is decked out in gold, whether it's the golden tiles that cover the hotel exterior, the lobby halls, or the gold bathtubs, infinity pool and toilets. Oh, and it's not just the decor that's golden; the hotel restaurants serves up 24k-carat STEAKS.
It will come as no surprise that the Dolce Hanoi Golden Lake hotel in Hanoi, Vietnam, is a 5-star property.
Operated by the Wyndham Hotels brand, the lavish hotel overlooks the Giang Vo lake - and yes, some of the suites have pretty incredible views of the landscape.
Although you'd expect a hotel that's gold-plated to have a ridiculous price tag, it's actually surprisingly cheaper than you'd think. In fact, there are stays available from £142 a night - based on two people sharing.
Image: Dolce Hanoi Golden Lake Hotel) Dolce Hanoi Golden Lake Hotel)
For example, you can book a Golden Getaway Package from £142 which includes a night in a classic room, breakfast, lunch or dinner, access to the infinity pool and even a tour of the hotel).
Rooms are pretty swish in the hotel, with huge beds and ensuite bathrooms. Oh, and all of the appliances are gold-plated of course.
Image: Dolce Hanoi Golden Lake Hotel) Dolce Hanoi Golden Lake Hotel)
The luxury hotel also boasts some incredible suites, for example the 184sq m Presidential Suite which includes a huge bedroom, a golden freestanding tub, and even a private sauna.
Another highlight includes the 200sqm rooftop infinity pool, which itself would be pretty spectacular thanks to its views over the Giang Vo Lake.
Image: Dolce Hanoi Golden Lake Hotel) Dolce Hanoi Golden Lake Hotel)
However, there's something extra dazzling about this one as it's all golden tiles - a strong contender for our top picks of the world's most incredible infinity pools.
(For those looking for a touch of pampering, the hotel also includes a spa and fitness centre).
Image: Dolce Hanoi Golden Lake Hotel) Dolce Hanoi Golden Lake Hotel)
Those who get peckish will have a choice of three restaurants, with meals served on 24K-Gold plated dining ware (nothing else would be as fitting). For something pretty unique, the menu also includes a 24K Golden Tomahawk Steak (covered in golden flakes rather than made of solid gold - that would not make for a tasty meal!).
You can find out more about the hotel on dolcehanoigoldenlake.com.
At the time of writing, the FCDO currently advises Brits against travel to Vietnam. The country has also closed its borders to foreign nationals - you can find out more in the FCDO Vietnam travel advice.


thedailymirror--2020-11-24--Millions of 'starving giant rats' could invade British homes this Christmas

Brits have been warned that the coronavirus lockdown could bring a very unwelcome festive invasion into their homes at Christmas .
It has been claimed that millions of hungry rats , some more than a foot long , are desperate to come in from the cold and into warm centrally-heated homes as winter looms .
The lockdown which has forced pubs and restaurants to close means the rats have been unable to feast on half-eaten bags of chips and dumped takeaways so they are more 'starved ' than previous years .
On Tuesday , Natalie Bungay , technical officer for @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` As temperatures begin to drop and food becomes scarce , rats will begin looking for shelter and scraps in more urban locations .
`` And as autumn and winter push on , rats start to head indoors . ''
According to Natalie mice will be 'breaking ' into our homes too .
`` Rats and mice do not hibernate and are a problem all year round , '' she said .
`` House mice are already living in and around wherever we are .
`` But as the weather gets colder @ @ @ @ @ @ @ look for warmer places to nest and begin to move indoors too .
`` They are highly adaptable and wo n't hesitate to take advantage of a warm place to nest during the winter months . ''
In the UK-wide lockdown in the spring , the BPCA reported a 51 per cent jump in rodent activity .
By last month , 78 per cent of pest controllers reported increased rat sightings and call-outs from distressed home owners .
The fear is that the rats spread crippling Weil 's disease and other illnesses through @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which means they have become immune to over-the-counter poisons and are growing to over a foot long .
As rats breed all year round there are fears their numbers will multiply inside our homes .
Peter Higgs , managing director of PGH Pest Control & Prevention , based in Cranleigh , Surrey , said `` They are coming into homes - that 's exactly what 's happening .
`` All of the waste that was produced by people eating food out , and from establishments doing the cooking - that 's gone .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ eat each other .
They will use a hierarchy in cities - the big rats will eat the smaller ones .
`` They will come in using the drainage system - they eat faeces .
`` They transmit diseases .
A professional should be called to deal with the problem .
`` We do n't want people trying to sort it out themselves and using their own poison and contracting something - they need to stay away .
`` It 's really important they get an expert in . ''
The National Pest @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for Christmas .
Spokesman John Hope said : `` It 's the same as when rubbish piles up on the street due to missed bin collections .
`` The more that 's there , the more chance there is of attracting rodents without actually seeing them , because they can get in there unnoticed by time you get to bottom of the pile .
`` Stockpiling will have an effect on public health because if you 're stockpiling goods , there 's more food there to attract rodents . ''
To counter the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to move any rubbish to an outside bin as soon as possible and try and ensure that this is tightly sealed .
He also recommends inspecting houses for cracks or holes in walls , unfilled voids around pipework and checking dried food packages for pest activity before use - particularly where excess food is stored .
`` Be careful about storing food in outbuildings or garages , as these will be at increased risk of pest damage as these buildings tend to be less secure than our homes .
`` If possible , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ building to make the area less attractive to pests . ''
For self-isolating families unwilling to call pest controllers due to coronavirus , he says to consider using break-back traps for rodents - but ensure that they are placed in secure locations as they can harm pets and people .
He said : `` Be very careful if you consider rodenticides or insecticides to ensure that these are purchased from reputable sources and are used safely and according to label conditions . ''

mirrornews@mirror.co.uk (Jim Hardy, Lorraine King)

The hungry rodents are desperate to come in to our homes as the lockdown means they have been unable to feast on titbits from pubs and restaurants as they are closed
Brits have been warned that the coronavirus lockdown could bring a very unwelcome festive invasion into their homes at Christmas.
It has been claimed that millions of hungry rats, some more than a foot long, are desperate to come in from the cold and into warm centrally-heated homes as winter looms.
The lockdown which has forced pubs and restaurants to close means the rats have been unable to feast on half-eaten bags of chips and dumped takeaways so they are more 'starved' than previous years.
On Tuesday, Natalie Bungay, technical officer for the British Pest Control Association, warned: "As temperatures begin to drop and food becomes scarce, rats will begin looking for shelter and scraps in more urban locations.
"And as autumn and winter push on, rats start to head indoors."
Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto) Getty Images/iStockphoto)
According to Natalie mice will be 'breaking' into our homes too.
"Rats and mice do not hibernate and are a problem all year round," she said.
"House mice are already living in and around wherever we are.
"But as the weather gets colder, field mice currently surviving outdoors will look for warmer places to nest and begin to move indoors too.
"They are highly adaptable and won't hesitate to take advantage of a warm place to nest during the winter months."
In the UK-wide lockdown in the spring, the BPCA reported a 51 per cent jump in rodent activity.
Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto) Getty Images/iStockphoto)
By last month, 78 per cent of pest controllers reported increased rat sightings and call-outs from distressed home owners.
The fear is that the rats spread crippling Weil's disease and other illnesses through their urine.
Many are also mutants which means they have become immune to over-the-counter poisons and are growing to over a foot long.
As rats breed all year round there are fears their numbers will multiply inside our homes.
Peter Higgs, managing director of PGH Pest Control & Prevention, based in Cranleigh, Surrey, said "They are coming into homes - that's exactly what's happening.
"All of the waste that was produced by people eating food out, and from establishments doing the cooking - that's gone.
Image: Getty Images/Dorling Kindersley) Getty Images/Dorling Kindersley)
"When they are hungry they will eat each other. They will use a hierarchy in cities - the big rats will eat the smaller ones.
"They will come in using the drainage system - they eat faeces.
"They transmit diseases. A professional should be called to deal with the problem.
"We don't want people trying to sort it out themselves and using their own poison and contracting something - they need to stay away.
"It's really important they get an expert in."
The National Pest Technicians Association has warned families against stockpiling for Christmas.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
Spokesman John Hope said: "It's the same as when rubbish piles up on the street due to missed bin collections.
"The more that's there, the more chance there is of attracting rodents without actually seeing them, because they can get in there unnoticed by time you get to bottom of the pile.
"Stockpiling will have an effect on public health because if you're stockpiling goods, there's more food there to attract rodents."
To counter the threat of infestations, he urged people to move any rubbish to an outside bin as soon as possible and try and ensure that this is tightly sealed.
He also recommends inspecting houses for cracks or holes in walls, unfilled voids around pipework and checking dried food packages for pest activity before use - particularly where excess food is stored.
"Be careful about storing food in outbuildings or garages, as these will be at increased risk of pest damage as these buildings tend to be less secure than our homes.
"If possible, keep bushes and shrubbery away from the building to make the area less attractive to pests."
For self-isolating families unwilling to call pest controllers due to coronavirus, he says to consider using break-back traps for rodents - but ensure that they are placed in secure locations as they can harm pets and people.
He said: "Be very careful if you consider rodenticides or insecticides to ensure that these are purchased from reputable sources and are used safely and according to label conditions."


thedailymirror--2020-11-24--Strictly's Maisie Smith gives reason for why she's misunderstood by the public

Maisie Smith has given her verdict on why she thinks she 's misunderstood by the public .
The Strictly Come Dancing contestant , 19 , ended up in the bottom two for the second time , and thinks she knows why .
The EastEnders star - who is this year 's youngest celeb on the hit BBC One dance show - was saved by judges Shirley Ballas , Craig Revel Horwood , and Anton Du Beke last weekend .
Her routine with pro partner Gorka Marquez landed her in the dance off against Caroline Quentin , leaving her confidence slightly @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : `` People have said they ca n't warm to me on Strictly , but I 'm so nervous and that can be interpreted as arrogance . ''
She added : `` I 'll either go quiet , or I 'll go over the top to put on a confident front .
It 's hard to not let it affect you .
I do have to genuinely remind myself to just trust myself , and be me . ''
After landing in the bottom two with Gorka , Maisie reportedly cried all night @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I ’ ve been trying so hard – we all have , '' she said .
`` But I ’ ve had to keep reminding myself not to take it so personally ... '' She added : `` Honestly , when I heard my name , it was the scariest feeling .
I ’ ve never been in such a scary situation .
Maisie and Gorka have formed a strong friendship during their time together on the dance show so far , with Maisie admitting that Gorka always send her snaps of his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to daughter Mia , whom he shares with girlfriend Gemma Atkinson .
`` He [ Gorka ] shows me pictures of their daughter Mia every day .
Once an hour I 'll get a new picture of her .
He adores that baby so much .
`` You can tell he 's been missing her .
He can see them , but he ca n't go near them .
`` He knows he ca n't hug Mia and she would n't understand why , so I think he 's not seeing them in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Do you have a story to sell ?
Get in touch with us at webcelebs @ trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 33033

CRAIG MELTS HIS FROSTY EXTERIOR TO GIVE MAISIE HEARTFELT ADVICE BEFORE DANCE OFF
CRAIG MELTS HIS FROSTY EXTERIOR TO GIVE MAISIE HEARTFELT ADVICE BEFORE DANCE OFF
The Strictly Come Dancing contestant, 19, ended up in the bottom two for the second time, and thinks she knows why
Strictly star Maisie Smith's reason for why she thinks she's misunderstood by the public
Maisie Smith has given her verdict on why she thinks she's misunderstood by the public.
The Strictly Come Dancing contestant, 19, ended up in the bottom two for the second time, and thinks she knows why.
The EastEnders star - who is this year's youngest celeb on the hit BBC One dance show - was saved by judges Shirley Ballas, Craig Revel Horwood, and Anton Du Beke last weekend.
Her routine with pro partner Gorka Marquez landed her in the dance off against Caroline Quentin, leaving her confidence slightly knocked.
She told OK! mag: "People have said they can't warm to me on Strictly, but I'm so nervous and that can be interpreted as arrogance."
Image: maisiesmithofficial/Instagram) maisiesmithofficial/Instagram)
She added: "I'll either go quiet, or I'll go over the top to put on a confident front. It's hard to not let it affect you. I do have to genuinely remind myself to just trust myself, and be me."
After landing in the bottom two with Gorka, Maisie reportedly cried all night.
"It knocked my confidence. I’ve been trying so hard – we all have," she said. "But I’ve had to keep reminding myself not to take it so personally..."
Image: PA) PA)
She added: "Honestly, when I heard my name, it was the scariest feeling. I’ve never been in such a scary situation.
"It wasn’t a nice feeling."
Maisie and Gorka have formed a strong friendship during their time together on the dance show so far, with Maisie admitting that Gorka always send her snaps of his daughter.
Gorka is a proud dad to daughter Mia, whom he shares with girlfriend Gemma Atkinson.
Image: ITV/REX/Shutterstock) ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
"He [Gorka] shows me pictures of their daughter Mia every day. Once an hour I'll get a new picture of her. He adores that baby so much.
"You can tell he's been missing her. He can see them, but he can't go near them.
"He knows he can't hug Mia and she wouldn't understand why, so I think he's not seeing them in the flesh as a result."
Do you have a story to sell? Get in touch with us at webcelebs@trinitymirror.com or call us direct 0207 29 33033


thedailymirror--2020-11-24--Anthony Joshua responds to Deontay Wilder admitting he avoided fight

Anthony Joshua says he 's `` not surprised '' by Deontay Wilder 's excuses for the first loss of his career , amid his rival 's admission he ducked a fight against him .
Negotiations over a world heavyweight unification fight between the two stars failed to bear fruit , with Wilder instead opting to fight Tyson Fury .
Joshua has persistently accused Wilder of dodging a showdown with him , and feels the Bronze Bomber 's latest tweet confirms it .
Wilder sent a tweet to Fury reading : `` You know I was offered more money to fight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you - again being a man of my word , I fought you . ''
IBF , WBA and WBO champion boxer feels Wilder 's post has drawn a line under that issue , and questioned whether the American would eventually accept his one-sided loss to Fury .
Quizzed on Wilder 's reaction to the defeat , Joshua told Sky Sports : `` I 'm not surprised .
`` He is trying to express how he feels to the world .
He has left it to us , the masses , to interpret @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` How he feels today might change in a year or two years due to experiences or more understanding of the situation that he has gone through .
`` He was knocking everybody out and got used to a winning performance .
He took a loss and is n't used to it .
`` As time goes on , he may express himself differently .
`` Today ?
In my humble opinion it is n't coming across in the right way . ''
Wilder has pointed the blame at a number of factors @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rematch , ranging from the weight of his walk-in costume to claims Fury 's gloves had been tampered with .
Who would win between Joshua and Fury ?
Have your say below .
But while Wilder is failing to accept his defeat graciously , Joshua is pleased that he 's finally been open about their failed match-up .
`` The positive out of it ?
He told the world that he ducked and dodged me , '' Joshua said .
`` We offered him a fight for the undisputed championship of the world @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fighting Fury .
`` I 'm glad we can clear that up and move on .
`` As time goes on , it will all come to fruition and make sense . ''

Eddie Hearn: We must make Tyson Fury against Anthony Joshua next
Eddie Hearn: We must make Tyson Fury against Anthony Joshua next
Wilder took on the challenge of fighting Tyson Fury rather than agree to a unification bout with Joshua, but continued to refute suggestions he had ducked the challenge until recently
Anthony Joshua says he's "not surprised" by Deontay Wilder's excuses for the first loss of his career, amid his rival's admission he ducked a fight against him.
Negotiations over a world heavyweight unification fight between the two stars failed to bear fruit, with Wilder instead opting to fight Tyson Fury.
Joshua has persistently accused Wilder of dodging a showdown with him, and feels the Bronze Bomber's latest tweet confirms it.
Wilder sent a tweet to Fury reading: "You know I was offered more money to fight Joshua than I was getting to fight you - again being a man of my word, I fought you."
IBF, WBA and WBO champion boxer feels Wilder's post has drawn a line under that issue, and questioned whether the American would eventually accept his one-sided loss to Fury.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
Quizzed on Wilder's reaction to the defeat, Joshua told Sky Sports : "I'm not surprised.
"He is trying to express how he feels to the world. He has left it to us, the masses, to interpret it how we feel is best.
"How he feels today might change in a year or two years due to experiences or more understanding of the situation that he has gone through.
"He was knocking everybody out and got used to a winning performance. He took a loss and isn't used to it.
"As time goes on, he may express himself differently.
"Today? In my humble opinion it isn't coming across in the right way."
Wilder has pointed the blame at a number of factors for the seventh-round stoppage in their February rematch, ranging from the weight of his walk-in costume to claims Fury's gloves had been tampered with.
Who would win between Joshua and Fury? Have your say below.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
But while Wilder is failing to accept his defeat graciously, Joshua is pleased that he's finally been open about their failed match-up.
"The positive out of it? He told the world that he ducked and dodged me," Joshua said.
"We offered him a fight for the undisputed championship of the world and he went down the route of fighting Fury.
"I'm glad we can clear that up and move on.
"As time goes on, it will all come to fruition and make sense."


thedailymirror--2020-11-24--GBBO 2020 finalists Laura, Peter and Dave pull out all stops for last showdown

The Great British Bake Off is nearly done for another year .
Ahead of tonight 's final - which will see Laura Adlington , Peter Sawkins and Dave Friday face off for first place - all three finalists spoke to us about what the show means to them , and how they pulled it off in a unique year for television .
Channel 4 was sure to make all the contestants and crew isolate ahead of the show 's filming to keep everything as Covid-safe as possible .
And amid a year of tears , laughs , and a Matt @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the show , proving that in 2020 , more than ever , we needed the feel-good contest in our lives .
You were all named Star Baker at some stage throughout the series , can you describe the emotion of getting that accolade ?
And did you relax a bit as you went through or did you want to up your baking game ?
Laura : I honestly was n't that fussed about getting Star Baker , but when my caged tart won me the accolade in week five I was chuffed to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ confidence boost I needed and made me feel like I deserved to be there .
Peter : Getting Star Baker is such a buzz .
The best part of getting the accolade is that all the other bakers were genuinely chuffed for whoever got Star Baker that week .
As we went through the contest , baking in the tent did feel more and more normal .
However , it did n't become any more relaxing as your position on the show became more precarious every week .
Dave : I never imagined @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Star Baker !
It was incredible , especially so early on in the competition .
I could n't really relax after that , each week was so different and a new challenge to face – I wanted to up my game .
I felt like this achievement gave me a boost – like I should believe in myself a bit more .
It 's always hard to say goodbye to fellow bakers and you guys had to do that over six weeks , how difficult was that ?
Laura : We all got @ @ @ @ @ @ @ living together , so each week it got harder and harder .
I was gutted when Sura left , but as time went on I also got really close with Lottie and Marc , so them leaving was a huge blow .
Peter : We became a tight-knit little baking family very fast , so it was tough to say goodbye to each baker .
We made sure we all ate dinner together and gave each baker a proper send off before they left .
It always felt as if a big part @ @ @ @ @ @ @ everyone brought something different and valuable to the group .
Dave : Every time someone left , the group dynamic changed so that was really tough .
I 'm not usually an emotional person but in the tent , emotions run high and I really felt it when Mark L left .
We got on so well and he was my baking buddy and an all round great guy .
We would always have a toast to the person leaving in the evening and try and give them a good send off .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Did it feel like a competition or three friends going back into the tent for one last time ?
Laura : Both of the boys were really competitive , so to be honest it made me go the other way .
I felt nervous going into the final but not because I wanted to win .
I just wanted to do myself proud .
Peter : It was quite a bizarre feeling going into the final .
It definitely felt more like a competition than in any previous stage of the programme @ @ @ @ @ @ @ were walking into the tent as friends .
We wanted each other to do really well , just not quite as well as ourselves !
Dave : I was nervous about the final as I actually had n't really planned the bakes until quite far into the competition , so the only practice for the final was on the two days prior to filming .
It did feel like three friends going into the final , but the thought of being so close to winning gave it a bit of a competitive edge @ @ @ @ @ @ @ words of wisdom from friends or family ahead of the final ?
Laura : My family just told me to be myself and bake from the heart .
Peter : My family just told me to enjoy it as much as I could .
I was never going to be in a Bake Off final again .
Dave : I had close friends and family spurring me on and telling me I was good enough to do this .
Stacey said that I had already won in her eyes so anything from now @ @ @ @ @ @ @ think that you would spend that amount of time in the Bake Off bubble – did you take enough clothes and toiletries to last ?
Laura : I never dreamed I would be in the bubble for that long .
I ran out of fake tan after two weeks and had to send off for emergency supplies .
Peter : Fortunately , I came well prepared with toiletries , but I did have to order some more clothes to wear in the last couple of weeks .
People seemed to like my Hawaiian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ used the opportunity to buy some similar shirts for the later weeks .
Dave : Even though I didn ’ t think I would get that far , I did have enough to last seven weeks – I am always prepared !
Was it like going on the longest hotel trip ever , and did you adapt to your new bubble life quite easily ?
Laura : I loved the whole experience .
We had a lot of laughs and some great nights in the bar playing games or doing karaoke .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to our new surroundings after being in lockdown for so long .
Peter : I did n't have too much trouble adapting to life in a swanky hotel with all my meals cooked for me .
It felt rather luxurious to be living like this for seven weeks !
Dave : I did adapt quite well as I have stayed away from home with my job .
But it was really hard to not see my family at all , especially Stacey ( and Yoki ) .
Towards the end I was really @ @ @ @ @ @ @ able to take the dog for a walk with Stacey , having dinner together – the simple things I took for granted .
I was heavily distracted with all the practising and intense filming days so I think it went quicker for me than it did for Stacey .
It got tenser towards the final , so how good a support were Matt and Noel ?
Laura : Matt and Noel were so supportive and would always be there to give you comforting hugs or make you laugh with a crass joke .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ stressful it would have been without them .
Peter : Matt and Noel did a brilliant job at easing the tension even when I might have been quite rude and ignored them a bit when I was running around like mad in the last couple of showstoppers .
Dave : Matt and Noel always had your back , they were encouraging and just so fun to be around so this took some of the tension away .
They were both really supportive .
Did you ever finish before they shouted 'You have 10 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Only once I think .
It was always a race to the finish with me to be honest !
Peter : I think we all finished the bagel technical quite ahead of time .
Other than that , most bakes filled up the time we had .
The judges are always looking for you to demonstrate your skills , so if you have lots of spare time you will typically fill it by trying to demonstrate another technique .
Dave : Yes – quite often which made me really worry that I did @ @ @ @ @ @ @ should have done more with the time .
But finishing early meant that I didn ’ t rush or make mistakes .
What 's been your favourite challenge or theme this series and least favourite and why ?
Laura : I loved pretty much all of the signature challenges this year as they 're things I would normally make at home .
Japanese Week was great too as it was something different .
Except for the matcha pancakes .
Let 's not talk about those… Peter : My favourite challenge was the ice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ favourite thing to eat and I thought that challenge was just so whimsical and fun !
My least favourite challenge was the Jelly cake , no doubt .
I really struggled developing that recipe and was very nervous about how it would work on the day .
Dave : Japanese Week was my favourite !
It was the most fun and I was able to be more creative .
80s week was my least favourite – I do n't really like quiches and was n't really sure how to get the best out @ @ @ @ @ @ @ n't feel this challenge could show off what I could do .
Did the Technical Challenge fill you with dread each week and how did you cope with it ?
Laura : I tried to just go with the flow and enjoy them but towards the end that was impossible because the pressure was so intense .
Peter : I quite enjoyed the Technical Challenges .
It was fun to try baking things that we often had n't made before and I felt the pressure was off in a sense because there was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ them .
Dave : Yes – my least favourite of the three .
I like to be prepared and the technical is blind so I would always worry I would misjudge timings , and I would find myself looking around the room to see how or what the other bakers were up too , and this would make me doubt my own judgement .
What 's the best thing overall about taking part in Bake Off ?
Laura : Having Paul and Prue try my food and ( for the most part ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ I 've been a huge Bake Off fan for many years so I feel incredibly blessed to have been in that famous white tent .
Peter : My favourite part about Bake Off was the people .
There was so much energy from the crew and I fed off the buzz they created in the bubble .
I 've made some lifelong friends in my fellow bakers , I did n't know this would be so true when I went into the bubble , but I have so much time for all of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lovely to be engaging with so many people in the bubble after the isolation of lockdown .
Dave : Baking for Paul and Prue and being part of the bake off family now .
And meeting Matt and Noel of course .
How have you found it watching yourself on TV , and have you been recognised yet ?
Laura : Hated it at first but then I just thought , 'That 's me ' .
If you do n't like it , do n't look .
Peter : I have found it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
I 'm just as excited to be watching 'my friends ' on the show and I get excited watching the credits when I 'm reading the names of the phenomenal crew that I got to meet .
I have been recognised a few times and people have always been very kind and supportive if they do recognise me .
Dave : It is cringey hearing my own voice ( do I really sound like that ! )
– and a lot of people noticing my happy 'shoulder wriggle I did n't know @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a bit – even with a face mask on !
When we were in hospital having baby Ronnie , the midwives and doctors asked where they knew me from .
The doctor who delivered Ronnie is a big fan of Bake Off so was very excited about it .
Were you aware of the innuendos during filming… or is it all part or the baking process and you do n't notice as you are too busy baking ?
Laura : Yes , very aware .
It would n't be Bake Off without the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lends itself bizarrely well to innuendos and Bake Off is rather spectacular at recognising and using them to make some very funny TV .
Sometimes we would have a chuckle in the tent but watching it on the telly there are quite a number that passed me by .
It does make us laugh when watching the show on a Tuesday .
Dave : To be honest – I hardly noticed what was happening around me .
I can only concentrate on what I am doing and usually zone right out !
I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ until I watched it back on TV I noticed how much I missed .
Have you missed not being in the tent ?
Laura : It 's only now I 'm home I realise how incredible the experience was and how lucky I was to be in the famous white tent .
I do miss it , but I do n't miss baking under such pressure .
Baking at home at my own pace is bliss !
Peter : I have missed the tent .
It is lovely to watch the programme each @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very fond memories of being in the bubble .
Dave : Of course , I miss the tent – I do n't miss the pressure .
It was bitter sweet because I was eager to get home to my family but at the same time really enjoyed the experience !
Can you remember the best comedy moment in or out of the Tent ?
Laura : We all did very badly in the week five Technical .
Linda 's eclairs in particular were so bad that Paul 's reaction gave me the giggles @ @ @ @ @ @ @ face .
So did the crew .
Peter : I think the moment that made me chuckle the most was seeing Marc get covered in buttermilk just a couple of minutes into the Soda Bread challenge !
Sorry Marc , it was just so funny !
It must have been good luck though as he went on to smash that week and get star baker .
Dave : Probably watching Matt and Noel messing around in the golf buggies !
Those two worked so well together and were always making us laugh .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ most asked for bake ?
Peter : I think my favourite bake to make is choux pastry , it 's very satisfying to work with and it 's a great canvas to work from where you can play about with so many different flavours .
Dave : I always get asked to make a rainbow cake – usually for children 's birthdays .
And another bake I always make is my triple chocolate brownies , and one party I took along over 100 brownies , and they said it lasted them a week @ @ @ @ @ @ @ what the funniest thing you have read about yourself on social media is ?
How has your social media changed – lots of new followers ?
Laura : Lots of people have commented on my resting b***h face .
I find it hilarious as people have been commenting on it for years .
I just ca n't help it .
I look like a serial killer when I 'm not smiling .
Peter : My friends have been getting a kick out of a collection of gifs and memes with me in , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ very entertaining !
I did n't quite realise how mad the jump in my followers would be following the show .
It has been lovely to receive so much support from fans of the show .
Dave : The comparisons to who I look like are pretty funny – and seeing all the memes people create .
And yes there are lots of new followers which is very nice , and I like to share not only my bakes , but my family life with my followers .
Will the Class of 2020 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ?
Peter : I think the class of 2020 will be good friends for life .
I certainly hope we stay in touch and manage to arrange some get-togethers soon .
Dave : Most definitely – we keep in touch and will try and meet up when possible .
Some of us have already met up .
It 's hard to all meet up at the moment because of the current restrictions .
Bake Off - Would you do it all again ?
Laura : In a heartbeat .
It has been one @ @ @ @ @ @ @ What an incredible honour to go from being a Bake Off super fan to actually being in the tent .
Peter : Bake Off , what an experience !
Yes , I would definitely do it all again !
Dave : Yes , I would do it all again – it was an incredible experience !
Worst and best moments for you of being in the tent overall this series ?
Laura : The best moment was getting star baker .
I was so proud of what I 'd done and it gave @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
And getting praise from Paul when he called one of my bakes a 'triumph ' .
The worst moment for me was baking in the heat .
I was exhausted and the heat just made some things impossible .
Peter : Worst moments in the tent were when others had issues with their bakes or bad feedback from the judges .
We felt like a team and it was hard whenever anyone got a bad result .
The best moments were when you could see how much the judges loved our baking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when the judges love something they ’ re trying !
Dave : Worst moments – when one of the technicals got to me and I had a big flap on camera – not my best moment !
It was difficult when the temperature of the tent was so high – finding a balance between drinking and needing the loo was hard to manage !
Best moments – the laughs in the tent , Matt and Noel mucking around and getting told off .
Will this be a life change for you , or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Laura : I 'm a big foodie and hugely passionate about baking , so hopefully it will lead to other opportunities .
We 'll have to wait and see !
Peter : I think GBBO has changed my life .
It is the most intense and challenging experience of my life so I think I have learned a lot and have grown up whilst being in the bake off bubble .
Dave : It has given me more confidence to take risks , I have learned a lot about myself and my abilities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
What are you hoping for now ... is there an ultimate baking dream ?
Laura : The ultimate dream is to develop my own recipes to showcase my love of proper , made-from-the-heart , comfort food .
Baking with Holly and Phil on This Morning is also on my bucket list .
Although not baking related , I 'm really into my plus size fashion so would love to get involved in that world and help inspire body confidence in other women .
Peter : I 'm looking forward to baking a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ friends and family who wo n't be scrutinising my bakes quite as closely as the judges !
I don ’ t know what will come out of this but I hope there are a few fun opportunities that I can take up !
Dave : I hope to have a career in baking , specifically to get into sugar work and chocolate sculpting .
Would you encourage any amateur baker out there to apply for Bake Off series 12 ?
How did you overcome your reservations and who or what made you send @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you glad you did ?
Laura : Do n't worry about being the best baker , or the neatest .
If you have a passion for baking just go for it and see where you end up .
Peter : If you love baking and are thinking about applying , I ca n't recommend doing it enough .
Along the way you get to meet some incredibly enthusiastic , energetic and passionate people that all love a shared common interest .
This experience wasn ’ t just exciting and fun for me , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of my comfort zone and helped me to develop and grow .
If you ’ re not sure if you should apply , I would say to you shoot your shot , the worst that can happen is that you miss !
Dave : Do it !
You have nothing to lose by applying – whether you are new to baking or have been baking for years – it doesn ’ t matter as long as you have a real passion for it !
*The Great British Bake Off final airs tonight at @ @ @ @

mirrornews@mirror.co.uk (Mark Jefferies, Will Twigger)

EXCLUSIVE: Bake Off's back this evening to wrap up its 11th series, with finalists Laura Adlington, Peter Sawkins and Dave Friday set to battle it out one last time in the tent for the coveted cake stand
The Great British Bake Off is nearly done for another year.
Ahead of tonight's final - which will see Laura Adlington, Peter Sawkins and Dave Friday face off for first place - all three finalists spoke to us about what the show means to them, and how they pulled it off in a unique year for television.
Channel 4 was sure to make all the contestants and crew isolate ahead of the show's filming to keep everything as Covid-safe as possible.
And amid a year of tears, laughs, and a Matt Lucas debut, ratings have soared for the show, proving that in 2020, more than ever, we needed the feel-good contest in our lives.
You were all named Star Baker at some stage throughout the series, can you describe the emotion of getting that accolade? And did you relax a bit as you went through or did you want to up your baking game?
Laura: I honestly wasn't that fussed about getting Star Baker, but when my caged tart won me the accolade in week five I was chuffed to bits. It really gave me the confidence boost I needed and made me feel like I deserved to be there.
Image: Love Productions) Love Productions)
Peter: Getting Star Baker is such a buzz. The best part of getting the accolade is that all the other bakers were genuinely chuffed for whoever got Star Baker that week. As we went through the contest, baking in the tent did feel more and more normal. However, it didn't become any more relaxing as your position on the show became more precarious every week.
Dave: I never imagined in a million years I would get Star Baker! It was incredible, especially so early on in the competition. I couldn't really relax after that, each week was so different and a new challenge to face – I wanted to up my game. I felt like this achievement gave me a boost – like I should believe in myself a bit more.
It's always hard to say goodbye to fellow bakers and you guys had to do that over six weeks, how difficult was that?
Laura: We all got really close very quickly as we were living together, so each week it got harder and harder. I was gutted when Sura left, but as time went on I also got really close with Lottie and Marc, so them leaving was a huge blow.
Peter: We became a tight-knit little baking family very fast, so it was tough to say goodbye to each baker. We made sure we all ate dinner together and gave each baker a proper send off before they left. It always felt as if a big part of our family left each week as everyone brought something different and valuable to the group.
Image: Love Productions) Love Productions)
Dave: Every time someone left, the group dynamic changed so that was really tough. I'm not usually an emotional person but in the tent, emotions run high and I really felt it when Mark L left. We got on so well and he was my baking buddy and an all round great guy. We would always have a toast to the person leaving in the evening and try and give them a good send off.
How were your nerves approaching the final? Did it feel like a competition or three friends going back into the tent for one last time?
Laura: Both of the boys were really competitive, so to be honest it made me go the other way. I felt nervous going into the final but not because I wanted to win. I just wanted to do myself proud.
Image: Mark Bourdillon/ Love Productions) Mark Bourdillon/ Love Productions)
Peter: It was quite a bizarre feeling going into the final. It definitely felt more like a competition than in any previous stage of the programme, but at the same time we were walking into the tent as friends. We wanted each other to do really well, just not quite as well as ourselves!
Dave: I was nervous about the final as I actually hadn't really planned the bakes until quite far into the competition, so the only practice for the final was on the two days prior to filming. It did feel like three friends going into the final, but the thought of being so close to winning gave it a bit of a competitive edge.
Did you receive any advice or words of wisdom from friends or family ahead of the final?
Laura: My family just told me to be myself and bake from the heart.
Peter: My family just told me to enjoy it as much as I could. I was never going to be in a Bake Off final again.
Dave: I had close friends and family spurring me on and telling me I was good enough to do this. Stacey said that I had already won in her eyes so anything from now is a bonus!
Did you ever think that you would spend that amount of time in the Bake Off bubble – did you take enough clothes and toiletries to last?
Laura: I never dreamed I would be in the bubble for that long. I ran out of fake tan after two weeks and had to send off for emergency supplies.
Peter: Fortunately, I came well prepared with toiletries, but I did have to order some more clothes to wear in the last couple of weeks. People seemed to like my Hawaiian style shirt in week five so I used the opportunity to buy some similar shirts for the later weeks.
Image: Love Productions) Love Productions)
Dave: Even though I didn’t think I would get that far, I did have enough to last seven weeks – I am always prepared!
Was it like going on the longest hotel trip ever, and did you adapt to your new bubble life quite easily?
Laura: I loved the whole experience. We had a lot of laughs and some great nights in the bar playing games or doing karaoke. It's strange how quickly we all adapted to our new surroundings after being in lockdown for so long.
Peter: I didn't have too much trouble adapting to life in a swanky hotel with all my meals cooked for me. It felt rather luxurious to be living like this for seven weeks!
Image: Channel 4) Channel 4)
Dave: I did adapt quite well as I have stayed away from home with my job. But it was really hard to not see my family at all, especially Stacey (and Yoki). Towards the end I was really missing my home life, just being able to take the dog for a walk with Stacey, having dinner together – the simple things I took for granted. I was heavily distracted with all the practising and intense filming days so I think it went quicker for me than it did for Stacey.
It got tenser towards the final, so how good a support were Matt and Noel?
Laura: Matt and Noel were so supportive and would always be there to give you comforting hugs or make you laugh with a crass joke. I dread to think how mundane and stressful it would have been without them.
Image: Channel 4) Channel 4)
Peter: Matt and Noel did a brilliant job at easing the tension even when I might have been quite rude and ignored them a bit when I was running around like mad in the last couple of showstoppers.
Dave: Matt and Noel always had your back, they were encouraging and just so fun to be around so this took some of the tension away. They were both really supportive.
Did you ever finish before they shouted 'You have 10 minutes left bakers'?
Laura: Only once I think. It was always a race to the finish with me to be honest!
Peter: I think we all finished the bagel technical quite ahead of time. Other than that, most bakes filled up the time we had. The judges are always looking for you to demonstrate your skills, so if you have lots of spare time you will typically fill it by trying to demonstrate another technique.
Dave: Yes – quite often which made me really worry that I didn't go ambitious enough and maybe I should have done more with the time. But finishing early meant that I didn’t rush or make mistakes.
What's been your favourite challenge or theme this series and least favourite and why?
Laura: I loved pretty much all of the signature challenges this year as they're things I would normally make at home. Japanese Week was great too as it was something different. Except for the matcha pancakes. Let's not talk about those…
Peter: My favourite challenge was the ice cream cake. Ice cream is my favourite thing to eat and I thought that challenge was just so whimsical and fun! My least favourite challenge was the Jelly cake, no doubt. I really struggled developing that recipe and was very nervous about how it would work on the day.
Image: Love Productions) Love Productions)
Dave: Japanese Week was my favourite! It was the most fun and I was able to be more creative. 80s week was my least favourite – I don't really like quiches and wasn't really sure how to get the best out of the challenges set – I didn't feel this challenge could show off what I could do.
Did the Technical Challenge fill you with dread each week and how did you cope with it?
Laura: I tried to just go with the flow and enjoy them but towards the end that was impossible because the pressure was so intense.
Peter: I quite enjoyed the Technical Challenges. It was fun to try baking things that we often hadn't made before and I felt the pressure was off in a sense because there was no way we could have prepared for them.
Dave: Yes – my least favourite of the three. I like to be prepared and the technical is blind so I would always worry I would misjudge timings, and I would find myself looking around the room to see how or what the other bakers were up too, and this would make me doubt my own judgement.
What's the best thing overall about taking part in Bake Off?
Laura: Having Paul and Prue try my food and (for the most part) enjoy it, was just incredible. I've been a huge Bake Off fan for many years so I feel incredibly blessed to have been in that famous white tent.
Image: Love Productions) Love Productions)
Peter: My favourite part about Bake Off was the people. There was so much energy from the crew and I fed off the buzz they created in the bubble. I've made some lifelong friends in my fellow bakers, I didn't know this would be so true when I went into the bubble, but I have so much time for all of these wonderful people. It was also lovely to be engaging with so many people in the bubble after the isolation of lockdown.
Dave: Baking for Paul and Prue and being part of the bake off family now. And meeting Matt and Noel of course.
How have you found it watching yourself on TV, and have you been recognised yet?
Laura: Hated it at first but then I just thought, 'That's me'. If you don't like it, don't look.
Peter: I have found it strangely normal watching myself on the TV. I'm just as excited to be watching 'my friends' on the show and I get excited watching the credits when I'm reading the names of the phenomenal crew that I got to meet. I have been recognised a few times and people have always been very kind and supportive if they do recognise me.
Dave: It is cringey hearing my own voice (do I really sound like that!)– and a lot of people noticing my happy 'shoulder wriggle I didn't know I did. I have been recognised a bit – even with a face mask on! When we were in hospital having baby Ronnie, the midwives and doctors asked where they knew me from. The doctor who delivered Ronnie is a big fan of Bake Off so was very excited about it.
Were you aware of the innuendos during filming… or is it all part or the baking process and you don't notice as you are too busy baking?
Laura: Yes, very aware. It wouldn't be Bake Off without the innuendos would it!
Image: Instagram) Instagram)
Peter: Baking lends itself bizarrely well to innuendos and Bake Off is rather spectacular at recognising and using them to make some very funny TV. Sometimes we would have a chuckle in the tent but watching it on the telly there are quite a number that passed me by. It does make us laugh when watching the show on a Tuesday.
Dave: To be honest – I hardly noticed what was happening around me. I can only concentrate on what I am doing and usually zone right out! I did overhear some but it wasn't until I watched it back on TV I noticed how much I missed.
Have you missed not being in the tent?
Laura: It's only now I'm home I realise how incredible the experience was and how lucky I was to be in the famous white tent. I do miss it, but I don't miss baking under such pressure. Baking at home at my own pace is bliss!
Peter: I have missed the tent. It is lovely to watch the programme each week though as it brings back some very fond memories of being in the bubble.
Dave: Of course, I miss the tent – I don't miss the pressure. It was bitter sweet because I was eager to get home to my family but at the same time really enjoyed the experience!
Image: Love Productions) Love Productions)
Can you remember the best comedy moment in or out of the Tent?
Laura: We all did very badly in the week five Technical. Linda's eclairs in particular were so bad that Paul's reaction gave me the giggles. I had tears running down my face. So did the crew.
Peter: I think the moment that made me chuckle the most was seeing Marc get covered in buttermilk just a couple of minutes into the Soda Bread challenge! Sorry Marc, it was just so funny! It must have been good luck though as he went on to smash that week and get star baker.
Dave: Probably watching Matt and Noel messing around in the golf buggies! Those two worked so well together and were always making us laugh.
What is your favourite bake to make/or most asked for bake?
Laura: My key lime pie.
Peter: I think my favourite bake to make is choux pastry, it's very satisfying to work with and it's a great canvas to work from where you can play about with so many different flavours.
Dave: I always get asked to make a rainbow cake – usually for children's birthdays. And another bake I always make is my triple chocolate brownies, and one party I took along over 100 brownies, and they said it lasted them a week after the party.
Can you say what the funniest thing you have read about yourself on social media is? How has your social media changed – lots of new followers?
Laura: Lots of people have commented on my resting b***h face. I find it hilarious as people have been commenting on it for years. I just can't help it. I look like a serial killer when I'm not smiling.
Image: Mark Bourdillon/ Love Productions) Mark Bourdillon/ Love Productions)
Peter: My friends have been getting a kick out of a collection of gifs and memes with me in, some of the stuff out there is very entertaining! I didn't quite realise how mad the jump in my followers would be following the show. It has been lovely to receive so much support from fans of the show.
Dave: The comparisons to who I look like are pretty funny – and seeing all the memes people create. And yes there are lots of new followers which is very nice, and I like to share not only my bakes, but my family life with my followers.
Will the Class of 2020 bakers keep in touch with each other?
Laura: Absolutely! Friends for life.
Peter: I think the class of 2020 will be good friends for life. I certainly hope we stay in touch and manage to arrange some get-togethers soon.
Dave: Most definitely – we keep in touch and will try and meet up when possible. Some of us have already met up. It's hard to all meet up at the moment because of the current restrictions.
Bake Off - Would you do it all again?
Laura: In a heartbeat. It has been one of the highlights of my life. What an incredible honour to go from being a Bake Off super fan to actually being in the tent.
Peter: Bake Off, what an experience! Yes, I would definitely do it all again!
Dave: Yes, I would do it all again – it was an incredible experience!
Worst and best moments for you of being in the tent overall this series?
Laura: The best moment was getting star baker. I was so proud of what I'd done and it gave me the confidence boost I really needed. And getting praise from Paul when he called one of my bakes a 'triumph'. The worst moment for me was baking in the heat. I was exhausted and the heat just made some things impossible.
Peter: Worst moments in the tent were when others had issues with their bakes or bad feedback from the judges. We felt like a team and it was hard whenever anyone got a bad result. The best moments were when you could see how much the judges loved our baking, you can't help but smile when the judges love something they’re trying!
Dave: Worst moments – when one of the technicals got to me and I had a big flap on camera – not my best moment! It was difficult when the temperature of the tent was so high – finding a balance between drinking and needing the loo was hard to manage! Best moments – the laughs in the tent, Matt and Noel mucking around and getting told off.
Will this be a life change for you, or will life carry on as normal?
Laura: I'm a big foodie and hugely passionate about baking, so hopefully it will lead to other opportunities. We'll have to wait and see!
Peter: I think GBBO has changed my life. It is the most intense and challenging experience of my life so I think I have learned a lot and have grown up whilst being in the bake off bubble.
Dave: It has given me more confidence to take risks, I have learned a lot about myself and my abilities. I have also made lifelong friends.
What are you hoping for now...is there an ultimate baking dream?
Laura: The ultimate dream is to develop my own recipes to showcase my love of proper, made-from-the-heart, comfort food. Baking with Holly and Phil on This Morning is also on my bucket list. Although not baking related, I'm really into my plus size fashion so would love to get involved in that world and help inspire body confidence in other women.
Image: Channel 4) Channel 4)
Peter: I'm looking forward to baking a few things at a relaxed pace for friends and family who won't be scrutinising my bakes quite as closely as the judges! I don’t know what will come out of this but I hope there are a few fun opportunities that I can take up!
Dave: I hope to have a career in baking, specifically to get into sugar work and chocolate sculpting.
Would you encourage any amateur baker out there to apply for Bake Off series 12? How did you overcome your reservations and who or what made you send off that application form, and are you glad you did?
Laura: Don't worry about being the best baker, or the neatest. If you have a passion for baking just go for it and see where you end up.
Peter: If you love baking and are thinking about applying, I can't recommend doing it enough. Along the way you get to meet some incredibly enthusiastic, energetic and passionate people that all love a shared common interest. This experience wasn’t just exciting and fun for me, it has been a huge leap out of my comfort zone and helped me to develop and grow. If you’re not sure if you should apply, I would say to you shoot your shot, the worst that can happen is that you miss!
Dave: Do it! You have nothing to lose by applying – whether you are new to baking or have been baking for years – it doesn’t matter as long as you have a real passion for it!
*The Great British Bake Off final airs tonight at 8pm on Channel 4


thedailymirror--2020-11-24--Watchdog questions whether PM should rule on ministers' rules after Patel row

Britain 's ethics watchdog is investigating whether Boris Johnson should be stripped of responsibility for disciplining ministers , following the Priti Patel bullying row .
It comes after Boris Johnson was accused of double standards after telling Ministers there was `` no place for bullying '' in the wake of a damning report into the behaviour of Home Secretary Priti Patel .
The PM refused to sack Ms Patel , despite an inquiry concluding she had broken the Ministerial Code following claims of bullying .
Currently the Prime Minister has sole power both to trigger investigations into wrongdoing by ministers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , if any , to take .
Lord Evans , Chair of the Committee on Standards in Public Life , told a committee of MPs he was to take evidence on whether to hand both the powers to an independent body .
`` The danger is that issues of public concern are left unresolved because an investigation has n't been triggered , '' he said .
He added that the PM having sole discretion over disciplinary action looked to the public `` looks as though you 're marking your own homework . ''
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ that exist in the Commons system and have been introduced into the Lords system now do n't apply to the ministerial code .
`` So I think there 's a question to be asked about whether there should be more independence , whether the investigative element should be triggered independently , potentially and then there 's the separate but parallel issue of what the response to the actual investigation should be . ''
He added : `` Those are both questions where the current arrangements are different from and certainly less independent than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Lord Evans said the Public would be confused by the fact that allegations of bullying by MPs is investigated by an independent panel , but allegations of bullying by ministers is not .
He said : `` If bullying is treated in one particular way for MPs in their parliamentary role then why would you want to handle it differently in their ministerial role ? ''
He also suggested there should be more options for punishing ministers who break the code , rather than simply whether or not to sack them .
`` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ binary thing , either you get virtually nothing , really , or you have to resign , '' he said .
`` Now actually maybe there should be a wider range of sanctions .
If you have a very minor breach then maybe you can have something else , in the same way as in the Commons .
`` I do n't rule out that there may be other ways to deal with breaches of the ministerial code other than resignation . ''

Lord Evans, chair of the Committee on Standards in Public Life, said the PM having sole discretion over both launching investigations of ministers accused of breaking the rules and deciding on punishment risked looking like 'marking your own homework'
Britain's ethics watchdog is investigating whether Boris Johnson should be stripped of responsibility for disciplining ministers, following the Priti Patel bullying row.
It comes after Boris Johnson was accused of double standards after telling Ministers there was "no place for bullying" in the wake of a damning report into the behaviour of Home Secretary Priti Patel.
The PM refused to sack Ms Patel, despite an inquiry concluding she had broken the Ministerial Code following claims of bullying.
Currently the Prime Minister has sole power both to trigger investigations into wrongdoing by ministers, and to decide on what action, if any, to take.
Lord Evans, Chair of the Committee on Standards in Public Life, told a committee of MPs he was to take evidence on whether to hand both the powers to an independent body.
"The danger is that issues of public concern are left unresolved because an investigation hasn't been triggered," he said.
Image: PA) PA)
He added that the PM having sole discretion over disciplinary action looked to the public "looks as though you're marking your own homework."
He said: "The independent elements that exist in the Commons system and have been introduced into the Lords system now don't apply to the ministerial code.
"So I think there's a question to be asked about whether there should be more independence, whether the investigative element should be triggered independently, potentially and then there's the separate but parallel issue of what the response to the actual investigation should be."
He added: "Those are both questions where the current arrangements are different from and certainly less independent than the Commons and the Lords."
Lord Evans said the Public would be confused by the fact that allegations of bullying by MPs is investigated by an independent panel, but allegations of bullying by ministers is not.
He said: "If bullying is treated in one particular way for MPs in their parliamentary role then why would you want to handle it differently in their ministerial role?"
He also suggested there should be more options for punishing ministers who break the code, rather than simply whether or not to sack them.
"At the moment it's rather a binary thing, either you get virtually nothing, really, or you have to resign," he said.
"Now actually maybe there should be a wider range of sanctions. If you have a very minor breach then maybe you can have something else, in the same way as in the Commons.
"I don't rule out that there may be other ways to deal with breaches of the ministerial code other than resignation."


thedailymirror--2020-11-26--Heartbroken teen's missing puppy 'found by stranger who now won't give him back'

A stranger has allegedly contacted the family of a missing puppy claiming to have found the pet but refuses to return it , labelling the owners `` irresponsible '' .
Melissa Baylis , 17 , was heartbroken to find nine-week-old Nelly - a Jack Russell Chihuahua Maltese cross - had disappeared from her garden in Ashton-under-Lyne , Tameside , last Saturday .
The teenager is convinced the puppy was stolen after noticing a bin had been moved , with the only gap in the fence three-fingers wide .
After going to the police and posting an appeal on Facebook , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ message on the social media site from a woman who then deleted her account , reports the Manchester Evening News .
The message , seen by the MEN , read : `` I believe you have lost your puppy .
On 21.11.20 approximately 1pm your puppy was found roaming around Ashton-under-Lyne .
`` The puppy was found safe and due to irresponsible owners , it has left me no choice to find it a safe , caring home .
`` Please count yourself lucky you have not been reported to the RSPCA .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ stop worrying '' about Nelly .
The dog had only been with the family for a week before going missing .
`` We found out that she was not in the house on Saturday just before 12pm '' , Melissa said .
`` I rang the police and they said we had no evidence about her being stolen , so it could n't be reported .
`` I went around and checked my estate and everywhere . ''
Melissa had taken a picture of her garden the day before the puppy went missing @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , a bin had been moved into a different place .
`` The only gap that she could have got through was only about three fingers wide , '' Melissa added .
`` I shared about her being missing on Facebook and then the woman sent my mum the message .
`` I 'm unsure as to whether it was a false account .
`` She just sent that one message and then nothing was going through .
She deleted her account and we could n't get in touch so we rang the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ had her for about a week and I ca n't stop worrying about her . ''
A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said enquiries into the incident are ongoing .
They asked anyone with information to get in touch .
In a statement , the spokesperson said : `` At around 2.30pm on Saturday 21 November 2020 , police were called to reports that a puppy had been stolen from a garden on Marlborough Street in Ashton-Under-Lyne .
`` No arrests have been made and enquiries are ongoing . ''
A spokesperson from the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' for the owner and the pet and urged people to take extra precautions to protect their dogs .
They said getting your pet neutered and microchipped , as well as ensuring they have a collar with contact details are essential .
They also advised owners to never leave pets tied up outside shops or alone in cars and to ensure gardens are secured with locked gates .
The spokesperson added owners must train their dogs to have a `` good recall '' and to not let them `` stray too far when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who suspects their dog may have been stolen should immediately alert police , contact their microchip company to register their pet as stolen and inform local rescue groups , vets , dog walkers and neighbours . ''

mirrornews@mirror.co.uk (Ashlie Blakey, Ryan Merrifield)

Melissa Baylis, 17, of Ashton-under-Lyne, said her mum received an odd message on Facebook claiming puppy Nelly had been found but said the family was "lucky" they weren't being reported to the RSPCA
Heartbroken teen's missing puppy 'found by stranger who now won't give him back'
A stranger has allegedly contacted the family of a missing puppy claiming to have found the pet but refuses to return it, labelling the owners "irresponsible".
Melissa Baylis, 17, was heartbroken to find nine-week-old Nelly - a Jack Russell Chihuahua Maltese cross - had disappeared from her garden in Ashton-under-Lyne, Tameside, last Saturday.
The teenager is convinced the puppy was stolen after noticing a bin had been moved, with the only gap in the fence three-fingers wide.
After going to the police and posting an appeal on Facebook, Melissa's mum was sent an odd message on the social media site from a woman who then deleted her account, reports the Manchester Evening News.
Image: Melissa Baylis/MEN MEDIA) Melissa Baylis/MEN MEDIA)
The message, seen by the MEN, read: "I believe you have lost your puppy. On 21.11.20 approximately 1pm your puppy was found roaming around Ashton-under-Lyne.
"The puppy was found safe and due to irresponsible owners, it has left me no choice to find it a safe, caring home.
"Please count yourself lucky you have not been reported to the RSPCA."
Image: Melissa Baylis/MEN MEDIA) Melissa Baylis/MEN MEDIA)
Melissa said she "can't stop worrying" about Nelly.
The dog had only been with the family for a week before going missing.
"We found out that she was not in the house on Saturday just before 12pm", Melissa said.
"I rang the police and they said we had no evidence about her being stolen, so it couldn't be reported.
"I went around and checked my estate and everywhere."
Image: Melissa Baylis/MEN MEDIA) Melissa Baylis/MEN MEDIA)
Melissa had taken a picture of her garden the day before the puppy went missing. She noticed that the following day, a bin had been moved into a different place.
"The only gap that she could have got through was only about three fingers wide," Melissa added.
"I shared about her being missing on Facebook and then the woman sent my mum the message.
"I'm unsure as to whether it was a false account.
"She just sent that one message and then nothing was going through. She deleted her account and we couldn't get in touch so we rang the police again.
"We had only had her for about a week and I can't stop worrying about her."
A Greater Manchester Police spokesperson said enquiries into the incident are ongoing.
They asked anyone with information to get in touch.
In a statement, the spokesperson said: "At around 2.30pm on Saturday 21 November 2020, police were called to reports that a puppy had been stolen from a garden on Marlborough Street in Ashton-Under-Lyne.
"No arrests have been made and enquiries are ongoing."
A spokesperson from the RSPCA said ordeal sounds "very distressing" for the owner and the pet and urged people to take extra precautions to protect their dogs.
They said getting your pet neutered and microchipped, as well as ensuring they have a collar with contact details are essential.
They also advised owners to never leave pets tied up outside shops or alone in cars and to ensure gardens are secured with locked gates.
The spokesperson added owners must train their dogs to have a "good recall" and to not let them "stray too far when off-lead on walks".
"Anyone who suspects their dog may have been stolen should immediately alert police, contact their microchip company to register their pet as stolen and inform local rescue groups, vets, dog walkers and neighbours."


thedailymirror--2020-11-26--England to learn lockdown fate today with London and Liverpool 'to avoid Tier 3'

England will learn its lockdown fate later today with London and Liverpool set to avoid the severest Tier 3 while a small number of rural areas will get away with only Tier 1 measures .
But Boris Johnson has warned the new tiering system is going to be `` very tough '' with the majority of the country facing bans on indoor socialising , while pubs will be shut unless serving meals .
He said : `` We ’ ve got to keep our foot on the throat of this virus . ''
The Prime Minister has been accused of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ all but name by many of his own MPs .
However , he will make it clear that areas in higher tiers will be able to move down the scale before Christmas if they follow the rules .
Economic forecasts prepared by the Treasury watchdog , the Office for Budget Responsibility , assume that “ high to medium ” restrictions , equating to Tiers 2 and 3 , would remain in place until the middle of 2021 , but the PM said he did n't agree with the `` gloomy '' prediction .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ approved as early as next week - with Britain in line to be the first country to roll it out , which Mr Johnson said would help ease restrictions sooner rather than later .
Today , Health Secretary Matt Hancock will lay out which area is in which tier in Parliament days after the Government set out its Covid-19 `` winter plan '' earlier this week .
Each area will be placed into one of three tiers when lockdown ends on December 2 - but the system has been toughened from the previous @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into the higher tiers .
Areas which make progress in slowing the spread of the virus could still be moved down a tier before Christmas , however , with the first review of the allocations due to take place by December 16 .
On Wednesday night reports suggested there would be few areas in England placed in Tier 1 , while London mayor Sadiq Khan said he expected the capital to go in Tier 2 along with the majority of the country and escape Tier 3 .
Liverpool is also reportedly set to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ vast reduction of positive cases , possibly in part caused by the mass testing trial in the region .
But Greater Manchester 's mayor Andy Burnham said it was `` more likely than not '' that his region would return to Tier 3 .
A study found Tier 1 restrictions failed in almost every area while Tier 2 was working before lockdown , with cases falling again overall and among the over 60s .
The Daily Telegraph added that sources suggest `` the vast majority '' of areas previously in Tier 1 would @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Parts of eastern England and remote areas in Cornwall and Cumbria are expected to be among the few that escape with Tier 1 restrictions , in which the rule of six applies indoors and out .
A study by the University of East Anglia found yesterday that only one of the 169 areas subject to Tier 1 did not see cases continue to increase .
Mr Hancock said : `` Thanks to the hard work and sacrifice made by people up and down the country , we are able to move out of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , tiered restrictions .
`` I know for those of you faced with Tier 3 restrictions this will be a particularly difficult time but I want to reassure you that we 'll be supporting your areas with mass community testing and extra funding .
`` By following the rules together we can get out of these tough measures . ''
The Department of Health said decisions on tier levels would be based on a number of factors , including case detection rates in all age groups and , in particular , amongst the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are rising or falling will also be taken into account , as will local pressure on the NHS , including current and projected capacity .
The final decisions will be made by the PM at the Covid Operations Committee , the Government said .
Areas placed in Tier 3 will be offered support from NHS Test and Trace and the Armed Forces to deliver a six-week rapid community testing programme , making use of rapid lateral flow tests which give results within an hour .
Liverpool City Region mayor Steve Rotheram said he @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first to enter the highest tier last time - would not return to Tier 3 restrictions .
He said : `` The progress we 've made since we were put in Tier 3 is remarkable - we 've gone from having two areas with infection rates of about 750 per 100k to 180 across the city region . ''
But the Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said it was `` more likely than not '' his area would be made subject to Tier 3 restrictions .
He said although infection numbers in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rates were falling .
He added : `` If things continue in this direction at the rate at which we are seeing change in Greater Manchester , I would want to ask the Government for a serious review of Greater Manchester 's position at the first review of tiering arrangements which is scheduled to take place two weeks from now . ''
Meanwhile , Lancashire 's council leaders have submitted a proposal to the Government to divide the county into two different tiers when the lockdown ends next week .
A request has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Burnley , Pendle and Preston to go into Tier 3 restrictions while Fylde , Wyre , Lancaster , Chorley , South Ribble , Ribble Valley and West Lancashire would go into Tier 2 .
And London mayor Sadiq Khan said it would be the `` right and sensible decision '' for the capital to be placed in Tier 2 , as he warned that Tier 3 would be a `` hammer blow '' to businesses .
Hospital admission rates for Covid-19 in the capital are also the lowest in the country .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` If it was Tier 3 it would be a tough case to make on the data .
We are expecting Tier 2 but we can ’ t quite call it .
“ We saw a decline right at the start of lockdown because Tier 2 was having an effect .
Then it went up we think because people had a last hurrah and there was also half-term .
`` Now we are seeing a promising decline with rates coming down in the past few days . ''
Up to 20,000 pubs will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ covered by Tiers 2 and 3 , with the British Beer and Pub Association warning that premises `` face ruin with the end of the pandemic in sight '' .
They say that `` the focal point of ... communities in every region of the UK could be lost for ever '' .
The reimposition of the tier system in England comes as scientists warned easing coronavirus restrictions over Christmas could lead to a third wave of the pandemic and another lockdown .
The Prime Minister urged the public to `` think carefully @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was confirmed that three households will be able to form a Christmas `` bubble '' from December 23 to 27 .
Professor Graham Medley , an expert in infectious disease modelling at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine , said the relaxation of restrictions over the festive period could lead to more people being admitted to hospital and further lockdown measures in the new year .
Meanwhile , Government figures showed a further 696 people had died within 28 days of testing positive for Covid-19 as of Wednesday , with the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ A further 18,213 lab-confirmed cases of coronavirus were reported on Wednesday .
In Scotland , Nicola Sturgeon has said rules allowing people to meet up at Christmas are likely to be tightened when they are set out on Thursday .
She said : `` The expectation should be that the guidance will probably look to tighten around the edges rather than further expand and that will be true with the travel window of opportunity as well - we want to limit that window , not expand it . ''
The Welsh Cabinet is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ further restrictions similar to the English tier system will be needed before Christmas , although a decision is not likely to be announced until Friday .
In Northern Ireland , tougher lockdown restrictions will be introduced for from Friday , with pubs , restaurants , non-essential retail and close contact services to close for a fortnight .

Boris Johnson has warned the new tier system will be "very tough" with the majority of the country barred from socialising indoors - though he said the promise of a vaccine would hopefully allow for a speedy easing in the coming weeks
England will learn its lockdown fate later today with London and Liverpool set to avoid the severest Tier 3 while a small number of rural areas will get away with only Tier 1 measures.
But Boris Johnson has warned the new tiering system is going to be "very tough" with the majority of the country facing bans on indoor socialising, while pubs will be shut unless serving meals.
He said: "We’ve got to keep our foot on the throat of this virus."
The Prime Minister has been accused of pushing through essentially another nationwide lockdown in all but name by many of his own MPs.
However, he will make it clear that areas in higher tiers will be able to move down the scale before Christmas if they follow the rules.
Image: PRU/AFP via Getty Images) PRU/AFP via Getty Images)
Economic forecasts prepared by the Treasury watchdog, the Office for Budget Responsibility, assume that “high to medium” restrictions, equating to Tiers 2 and 3, would remain in place until the middle of 2021, but the PM said he didn't agree with the "gloomy" prediction.
The first vaccine is set to be approved as early as next week - with Britain in line to be the first country to roll it out, which Mr Johnson said would help ease restrictions sooner rather than later.
Today, Health Secretary Matt Hancock will lay out which area is in which tier in Parliament days after the Government set out its Covid-19 "winter plan" earlier this week.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
Each area will be placed into one of three tiers when lockdown ends on December 2 - but the system has been toughened from the previous regime, meaning more authorities will move into the higher tiers.
Areas which make progress in slowing the spread of the virus could still be moved down a tier before Christmas, however, with the first review of the allocations due to take place by December 16.
On Wednesday night reports suggested there would be few areas in England placed in Tier 1, while London mayor Sadiq Khan said he expected the capital to go in Tier 2 along with the majority of the country and escape Tier 3.
Liverpool is also reportedly set to move down from Tier 3 after a vast reduction of positive cases, possibly in part caused by the mass testing trial in the region.
But Greater Manchester's mayor Andy Burnham said it was "more likely than not" that his region would return to Tier 3.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
A study found Tier 1 restrictions failed in almost every area while Tier 2 was working before lockdown, with cases falling again overall and among the over 60s.
The Daily Telegraph added that sources suggest "the vast majority" of areas previously in Tier 1 would probably be upgraded to Tier 2.
Parts of eastern England and remote areas in Cornwall and Cumbria are expected to be among the few that escape with Tier 1 restrictions, in which the rule of six applies indoors and out.
Image: AFP via Getty Images) AFP via Getty Images)
A study by the University of East Anglia found yesterday that only one of the 169 areas subject to Tier 1 did not see cases continue to increase.
Mr Hancock said: "Thanks to the hard work and sacrifice made by people up and down the country, we are able to move out of national lockdown and into more targeted local, tiered restrictions.
"I know for those of you faced with Tier 3 restrictions this will be a particularly difficult time but I want to reassure you that we'll be supporting your areas with mass community testing and extra funding.
Video Loading Video Unavailable Click to play Tap to play The video will auto-play soon 8 Cancel Play now
"By following the rules together we can get out of these tough measures."
The Department of Health said decisions on tier levels would be based on a number of factors, including case detection rates in all age groups and, in particular, amongst the over 60s.
How quickly case rates are rising or falling will also be taken into account, as will local pressure on the NHS, including current and projected capacity.
The final decisions will be made by the PM at the Covid Operations Committee, the Government said.
Areas placed in Tier 3 will be offered support from NHS Test and Trace and the Armed Forces to deliver a six-week rapid community testing programme, making use of rapid lateral flow tests which give results within an hour.
Liverpool City Region mayor Steve Rotheram said he hoped the area - which was the first to enter the highest tier last time - would not return to Tier 3 restrictions.
He said: "The progress we've made since we were put in Tier 3 is remarkable - we've gone from having two areas with infection rates of about 750 per 100k to 180 across the city region."
But the Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham said it was "more likely than not" his area would be made subject to Tier 3 restrictions.
He said although infection numbers in Greater Manchester were still high, the rates were falling.
He added: "If things continue in this direction at the rate at which we are seeing change in Greater Manchester, I would want to ask the Government for a serious review of Greater Manchester's position at the first review of tiering arrangements which is scheduled to take place two weeks from now."
Image: Vincent Cole Manchester Evening News) Vincent Cole Manchester Evening News)
Meanwhile, Lancashire's council leaders have submitted a proposal to the Government to divide the county into two different tiers when the lockdown ends next week.
A request has been made for Hyndburn, Rossendale, Burnley, Pendle and Preston to go into Tier 3 restrictions while Fylde, Wyre, Lancaster, Chorley, South Ribble, Ribble Valley and West Lancashire would go into Tier 2.
And London mayor Sadiq Khan said it would be the "right and sensible decision" for the capital to be placed in Tier 2, as he warned that Tier 3 would be a "hammer blow" to businesses.
Image: Getty Images) Getty Images)
Hospital admission rates for Covid-19 in the capital are also the lowest in the country.
A London health official told the Telegraph: "If it was Tier 3 it would be a tough case to make on the data. We are expecting Tier 2 but we can’t quite call it.
“We saw a decline right at the start of lockdown because Tier 2 was having an effect. Then it went up we think because people had a last hurrah and there was also half-term.
"Now we are seeing a promising decline with rates coming down in the past few days."
Image: James Veysey/REX/Shutterstock) James Veysey/REX/Shutterstock)
Up to 20,000 pubs will shut if two-thirds of the country is covered by Tiers 2 and 3, with the British Beer and Pub Association warning that premises "face ruin with the end of the pandemic in sight".
They say that "the focal point of...communities in every region of the UK could be lost for ever".
The reimposition of the tier system in England comes as scientists warned easing coronavirus restrictions over Christmas could lead to a third wave of the pandemic and another lockdown.
The Prime Minister urged the public to "think carefully" over the festive period after it was confirmed that three households will be able to form a Christmas "bubble" from December 23 to 27.
Professor Graham Medley, an expert in infectious disease modelling at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, said the relaxation of restrictions over the festive period could lead to more people being admitted to hospital and further lockdown measures in the new year.
Meanwhile, Government figures showed a further 696 people had died within 28 days of testing positive for Covid-19 as of Wednesday, with the UK total now standing at 56,533.
A further 18,213 lab-confirmed cases of coronavirus were reported on Wednesday.
In Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon has said rules allowing people to meet up at Christmas are likely to be tightened when they are set out on Thursday.
She said: "The expectation should be that the guidance will probably look to tighten around the edges rather than further expand and that will be true with the travel window of opportunity as well - we want to limit that window, not expand it."
The Welsh Cabinet is also expected to meet to decide whether further restrictions similar to the English tier system will be needed before Christmas, although a decision is not likely to be announced until Friday.
In Northern Ireland, tougher lockdown restrictions will be introduced for from Friday, with pubs, restaurants, non-essential retail and close contact services to close for a fortnight.