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A HUGE new theme park is opening in the UK with no rides or rollercoasters – and new images have revealed what to expect.

Puy du Fou is one of France‘s most popular theme parks, and has since opened in Spain.

puydufouconsultation.co.uk

Puy du Fou is opening a new UK theme park after the success in France and Spain[/caption]

Puydu Fou

There will be 13 live shows and performances, similar to in France (pictured)[/caption]

Following the success, the theme park has revealed plans of opening a third attraction in the UK.

Inside won’t be rides, but instead live performances based on thousands of years of UK history.

The park says guests can “immersive themselves in British history” with the 13 live shows.

The website states: “Our parks are not plastic stage sets; there are no neon flashing lights or rollercoasters.

“Everything we do must be real, built using the crafts and materials of the time period they represent, all set in woodland and beautiful gardens, which become the stage set for world-class shows and immersive cultural and historical experiences, bringing history to life.”

Also inside will be four period villages, as well as new gardens, lakes and 40 acres of flower meadows.

Along with 20,000 new trees, it hopes to be similar to Kew Gardens.

Guests will be able to stay at one of three hotels, based on different periods, with restaurants and cafes.

The 370-acre attraction will open near Bicester in 2029, with works to begin next year.

Olivier Strebelle, Puy du Fou’s chief executive, previously told The Times they want guests to be “disconnected from the 21st century”.

He added: “We have our guests travel through time, out of [the] Roman period and into the 20th century period of the great wars, and the best segue between them is nature because it’s always been there.”

He also said: “We have a checklist: you need spectacular technology, you need people and animals, some pace, and the local person from the period to create a bond with the visitors – we have the conceptual elements and then local historians tell us what is important and could match.”

Ticket prices are yet to be confirmed, but range from £24 to £38 depending on the age of the guest in France.

Local consultations on the new attraction are being held from February 6-8.

puydufouconsultation.co.uk

Three themed hotels would also be part of the park[/caption]

The first Puy du Fou opened in France in 1978, and is now the second most popular attraction in the country (only beaten by Disneyland Paris).

The Spanish Puy du Fou followed suit in 2019 and has since welcomed millions of tourists a year.

In the mean time, another ride-free attraction in the UK is Bewilderwood, which prides itself on being tech-free.

With two in the country – one in Norfolk and one in Cheshire – the outdoor adventure park is loved by families for it’s simplicity.

And another huge theme park set to open in the UK will be by Universal, with plans set for Bedfordshire.

The 476-acre site will have rollercoasters, a 500-room hotel and even it’s own train station.

And here’s everything to know about Chessington’s plans for a new theme park land.

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New images show the planned attraction, hoping to open later this year[/caption]

A SECRET Strictly romance has been revealed – and fans will likely go wild over the news.

Jowita Przystal is said to be “dating” a show finalist, with the stunning dancer, 30, rumoured to have grown close to the acting hunk.

Not known, clear with picture desk

Jamie and Jowita were seen out and about last week[/caption]

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Jamie shot to fame playing the role of Jay in EastEnders[/caption]

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Jowita is a professional dancer on Strictly Come Dancing[/caption]

According to a new report, EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick, 30, and Jowita had a fling while filming the series towards the end of last year.

The pair initially met in 2023 when Jamie won the Strictly Christmas special, with them then hitting it off last autumn.

And as the pair embark on the Strictly Come Dancing Live! tour, it has been unveiled that they are still super close with the cast keen for them to strike up something more long-term.

MailOnline reports that a source has spilled: “Jowita and Jamie grew really close while filming Strictly.

“Things did get romantic between them, Jowita loves Jamie’s playfulness and sense of humour, not to mention he’s a very talented dancer.”

The source then touched on how there were so many rumours about Jowita and Pete Wicks, with his causing her relationship with Jamie to “go under the radar, which was something they laughed about”.

“They’re still enjoying each other’s company as they perform on the Strictly tour,” the source added, “with the cast believing their romance could well lead to something long-term.”

On the tour, Jamie is paired with Michelle Tsiakkas, with Jowita joining the lineup of professional dancers.

Throughout the last series, that saw Jowita paired up with Pete, rumours were rife that they were seeing each other.

CHEEKY HINT

Pete even cheekily referred to Jowita’s closeness with Jamie when she appeared on his Staying Relevant podcast.

Speaking to Jowita on the podcast, Pete said: “I have a question for you, I think I have asked you this before but you have to answer.

“You have to answer this. Don’t sit on the fence or do any of that crap, I want to know.”

He then said: “If you weren’t dancing with me, who would you want to dance with… and it doesn’t have to be who’s left, it could be people who have gone.

“Don’t sit on the fence, answer the f***ing question.”

Pete pressed: “If you couldn’t dance with me, who would you like to dance with? I know the answer to this… 100 per cent, Jamie.”

Jowita then replied: “Well probably. I knew him from the Christmas special and we get on very well.”

Pete added: “I said this to you at the weekend actually but you and Jamie would have been great, you get on really well with him and you would have had lots of fun with him and Jamie is a really good dancer, so cool.”

STRICTLY TOUR

Jamie and Jowita were pictured together last Monday in Sheffield after having a meal at Miller and Carter with the Strictly tour cast. 

The tour, which is packed full of arena show dates up and down the country, kicked off earlier this month in Birmingham at the Utilita Arena.

Sarah Hadland, reality star Tasha Ghouri, JLS singer JB Gill, EastEnders star Jamie Borthwick and opera singer Wynne Evans, are all part of the cast.

The X Factor winner Shayne Ward and Gladiators star Montell Douglas were also confirmed in the line-up.

The tour will continue until February 9 and the celebrities will be joined by a slew of professional dancers and the shows judges.

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Jamie won the 2023 Christmas special of Strictly, which is when he first met Jowita[/caption]

Instagram/@jowitaprzystal

Jowita joined the Strictly cast in 2021[/caption]

FOODIES have been left ‘disgusted’ after only just realising how bacon is actually made.

So if you’re a lover of pork and often look forward to tucking into a bacon sarnie on a Saturday morning, then you’ll need to listen up. 

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Foodies have been left horrified after discovering how bacon is really made[/caption]

Discovery +

Whilst some were intrigued by the lengthy process, others vowed to never eat the salty meat ever again[/caption]

Discovery +

It comes after a YouTube video of the bacon making process has emerged[/caption]

Whilst many of us enjoy the salt-cured pork snack and have it in anything from sandwiches to pasta dishes, lots of us haven’t got a clue how it’s really made.

But now, a video has resurfaced showing exactly how pre-cooked bacon is produced in factories – and it’s been an eye-opener for those who didn’t realise what went into the process.

Whilst some people were fascinated by the lengthy production and craved bacon even more, others were open-mouthed by the ‘gross’ process.

The clip from How It’s Made, which was originally shown on the Discovery UK channel in 2018, has reappeared on YouTube, detailing some of the more grim aspects of processed meat making.

In the five minute video, viewers can get a close-up look at how bacon, which is processed through a meat-curing process and sometimes pre-cooked in factories, is mass-produced.

First things first, large pieces of pork belly are tossed into a big tumbler, which softens them so it’s easier to remove the skin. 

They are then placed skin-side down on a conveyer belt, which takes them to a blade which slices the skin off. 

In a very detailed clip, viewers can see the pig skin flop onto the conveyer belt, before being moved along to make pork rinds.

After this, the pork belly pieces are flipped by a machine, so inspectors can remove any excess skin. 

Next is the curing process, which involves mixing salt and water until it’s fully dissolved, before adding liquid smoke and other flavourings.

Once the meat is back on the conveyor belt, the pork belly slices are injected with the curing solution with needles that repeatedly stab them. 

Following this, a metal hanger called a comb is then attached to the edge of the meat so it can be hung on a rack.

The stacks of hanging pork bellies are then transported to the “drench cabinet” so they can be showered with liquid smoke, which adds flavour and colour to the meat.

Once this is done, the meat is then ready to be transported to an oven, where it is cooked for five hours on low heat – allowing the flavours to permeate.

Then, when the bacon is cooked, it is moved to a blast freezer for a quick cool down, before going to another cooler for a few days, which makes it easier to slice.

Discovery +

The stacks of hanging pork bellies are then transported to the “drench cabinet” so they can be showered with liquid smoke[/caption]

Discovery +

The bacon is taken to the “sizing station”, where their sides get trimmed down[/caption]

But before this, the bacon is taken to the “sizing station”, where their sides get trimmed down, and the meat is also passed through a metal detector to make sure no pieces of the hanger have gotten stuck inside. 

After being stacked in the freezer, when the time comes, the meat slabs are put into chutes, which sway back and forth over a blade to cut them into slices.

But the lengthy process doesn’t end there, as the bacon strips then fall neatly onto a conveyor belt so they are ready for the browning microwave, which cooks off the bacon and sees the fat fall into a trough. 

Wow! This is a serious process!

YouTube user

After that, the bacon is checked by an inspector, who discards slices that aren’t up to the company’s standard.

Mechanic wheels are then used to roll the browned bacon slices onto parchment paper and finally, the bacon is stacked for packaging and ready to be distributed. 

Foodies react

While many social media users were left fascinated by the process, others were horrified to see how their beloved weekend treat was made.

I’m never eating bacon again

YouTube user

One person commented: “When you’re disgusted by the skin removal and fascinated at the same time.”

Another added: “Not gonna lie, the first part looked a bit gross.”

A third claimed: “I’m going vegan,” whilst another agreed: “I’m never eating bacon again.”

Not only this, but someone else chimed in: “God…That looks disgusting.” 

However, one foodie was stunned and questioned: “Who knew making bacon was so advanced?”

Meanwhile, another food lover beamed: “Wow! This is a serious process! No wonder bacon is so expensive.”

WYNNE Evans is set to be axed from the Strictly Come Dancing live tour following his crude remark to Janette Manrara.

The under fire opera singer, who turned 53 yesterday, joked about having a threesome with professional dancer Janette, 41, during a full cast photocall.

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Wynne Evans has been dropped from the Strictly tour after his sex joke[/caption]

Splash

The Welshman had initially been given a warning by bosses but allowed to carry on[/caption]

A source said: “He’s had repeated warnings about his behaviour and told to reign it in. He’s not been taking it in, in this day and age the BBC have to be seen taking action and safegaurad everyone.

“He’s had a tough time with the death of his brother and people should give him some slack, he is going to take this time off to do some self reflection.

“He has a lot of support from a lot of the backstage dancers. It’s been a really sad ending to what has been a really fun tour.”

The Sun understands BBC Studios will be releasing a statement later today.

Wynne previously apologised after he was heard using the term “spit roast” to co-star Jamie Borthwick while standing beside Janette.

He said: “My language was inappropriate and unacceptable, for which I sincerely apologise.”

A spokesman for Janette claimed she hadn’t heard the comment.

Wynne’s apology hasn’t saved his place on the tour and bosses have now removed him, despite initially giving him a final warning.

A tour insider previously said: “As soon as they were alerted to the remarks, tour producers called a meeting with Wynne.

“He was very apologetic and fully agreed that what he said was inappropriate and unacceptable.

“He was given a warning and told in no uncertain terms that that kind of language is not tolerated.”

The awkward U-turn follows a backlash from some fans of the show who voiced their disappointment over his language.

One fumed: “Either he goes or we don’t go. It’s supposed to be a family show. Get rid of Wynne Evans.”

Another said: “I don’t think a warning is enough. He shouldn’t be allowed to say something so vile about a stranger and continue to make money from the tour.”

A third said: “He needs to be removed from the tour immediately.”

However, others feel that while inappropriate, he should be allowed to redeem himself.

His co-stars have been supporting him since the initial joke furore and are concerned by his low mood.

Katya Jones and Tasha Ghouri shared a picture of them enjoying a night out with Wynne, while Kai Widdrington also posted a snap with his arm around the singer along with a love heart emoji.

Last night the likes of Amy Dowden, Lauren Oakley and Janette’s husband Aljaz Skorjanec attended Wynne’s birthday meal in Liverpool, though Wynne himself wasn’t pictured.

Away from Strictly, Wynne has accepted an offer by the BBC to take some time away from his BBC Radio Wales show.

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Janette has spent time with her mum since the incident[/caption]

Aaron Parfitt

Janette’s husband Aljaz Skorjanec attended Wynne’s birthday meal in Liverpool[/caption]

Aaron Parfitt

Lauren Oakley was also in attendance[/caption]

Aaron Parfitt

Jowita Pryzstal looked great in a leather skirt and boots[/caption]

He is being replaced on BBC Radio Wales by comic Robin Windsor.

Last night his new buddy travel show with Gavin and Stacey’s Joanna Page aired on BBC One.

The six-part show sees the friends explore the Welsh coast.

The ill-thought joke has brought his previous Strictly scandal with Katya Jones back to the fore.

He sparked controversy in the last series for appearing to touch pro partner Katya Jones inappropriately around her waist on live TV, before she moved his hand away.

In another awkward moment she snubbed his attempt at a high-five, suggesting to viewers Wynne had upset her.

They called it an “in-joke” and Katya later defended him on TV and social media, supporting his claim and saying there was no problem.

Mark Ferguson

Wynne apologised for his crude comment[/caption]

CHANNEL 5 has erupted with excitement about its new exploration series looking at the dramatic world of Volcanoes.

The show will be fronted by theoretical physicist turned comedian, turned intrepid explorer, Dara O’Briain.

Channel 5

Dara will front a new series for Channel5 exploring the world of Volcanos[/caption]

BBC

The new documentary is a far cry from his old role behind the Mock the Week desk[/caption]

PA

Recently Dara has been able to pursue his love of history and science on Channel 5[/caption]

The programme will follow the fearless Dara as he journeys to get up close and dangerously personal with some of the planet’s most awe-inspiring sites.

Viewers will be able to see two episodes of lava-filled action with Dara heading to Italy, home of Vesuvius, possibly the most famous volcano of all.

The comedian will also visit Stromboli, whose constant eruptions have earned it the nickname ‘Lighthouse of the Mediterranean’.

There will be time for some lighter moments though as a trip to Mount Etna reveals that the volcanic soils there have helped to produce some of the best wines in the world.

Dara was keen to explain how viewers shouldn’t just be expecting a boring Geology lesson.

He spoke about his time making the show, saying: “What an adventure! I got to clamber up the side of live volcanoes and watch plumes of lava explode into the air.

“I learned how close we live to these magnificent, unstoppable monsters and saw how real their threat is. Then we drank wine from volcanic soil, ate the best pizza in the world and learned how to love life, under the shadow of destruction. Who said Geology was just rocks!”

His new adventure is a far cry from his days fronting the BBC comedy panel show, Mock the Week.

Dara was a constant figure on the series that ran for 17 years from 2005 until it was eventually cancelled in 2022.

He fronted over 200 episodes and helped the likes of Frankie Boyle and Russell Howard catapult themselves into the public eye.

The ending of the legendary satirical news show has given Dara the chance to explore new opportunities and his love of science and history.

The funny man had previously hosted Stargazing Live with Brian Cox for the BBC and Channel 5 were keen for Dara to once again look to the skies.

He fronted his first documentary for the channel called Wonders of the Moon in 2023 followed by the Wonders of the Sun and Mysteries of the Pyramids

Dara recently teased more documentary titles to come; Posting on X, he confirmed that as well as the volcanoes feature fans could look forward to at least one more series before the end of 2025.

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The comedy star has teased even more series to come this year[/caption]

WITH the cost-of-living crisis driving up the price of nearly everything, affording the finer things in life is becoming increasingly challenging.

Whether it’s your favourite designer perfume or go-to makeup product, stretching your pounds has become a struggle for many.

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Shoppers have discovered a surprising hack to help get perfume for free[/caption]

TikTok/@couponkiduk

Jordon shared a video of his savvy hack on his TikTok page[/caption]

However, one savvy individual has discovered a clever trick to help you enjoy your favourite designer perfume without breaking the bank.

Jordon Cox, known as ‘couponkiduk’ on TikTok, has shared his ingenious hack to get “expensive perfumes for free.”

He explains: “At Superdrug, if you buy one of these travel perfume pods, they’ll let you choose any perfume in-store to fill it with for free.

“Pro tip: choose one of the most expensive ones you can find to smell like a million pounds without paying for it.

“You’ll only get the first fill for free, but it’s a handy little tool to take with you on holiday.”

His video gained lots of attention with many people rushing to the comments section to share their thoughts. 

One wrote: “I bought 5 of those for 64p. 

“I am saving money by filling them with my own perfume that someone else bought for me.” 

A second added: “Keep up the good work!” 

We previously revealed a DIY beauty hack that only costs £2.25 and will help with brightening under-eye areas. 

In a viral video, TikTok user Adria (@fitfoodadria) demonstrated the simple trick to her followers.

She explained that her unusual beauty tip has sparked some confused reactions, but despite the scepticism, the TikToker insists it works wonders for banishing dark circles.

“When I tell people I literally use coffee and honey to brighten my under-eyes,” Adria said, using a popular TikTok sound to mimic the disbelief she often encounters.

TikTok/@couponkiduk

They will fill up your container for free[/caption]

The beauty enthusiast carefully applied the dark, grainy mixture under both her eyes, using a cotton swab to spread the DIY concoction evenly across her skin.

“My family thinks I’m nuts, but I swear it works!” Adria wrote in the clip’s caption.

The best part? You likely already have these ingredients at home.

For those looking to try it out, you can pick up a 200g jar of instant coffee for just £2.25 at Asda.

A SCHOOL in Newcastle has been forced to shut following a health emergency.

Police are responding to the incident at Benfield School – with parents given an urgent warning.

A statement on the school’s website this morning reads: “Due to a Health and Safety Emergency Benfield has been closed.

“We will keep you informed through the usual channels of any updates of when the school will re-open. Apologies for the inconvenience.”

Northumbria Police, Newcastle City Council and North East Academy Trust (NEAT) have been contacted for further information.

NCJMedia

Police in attendance at Benfield School[/caption]

BURNLEY and Leeds fans are demanding refunds after watching the “worst game of any form of sport ever.”

The Championship title contenders went head-to-head last night in what had been billed as an epic showdown.

Rex

Burnley and Leeds fans want refunds after last night’s dismal 0-0 draw[/caption]

Leeds were already top of the table after second-place Sheffield United lost to Hull on Friday.

While third-place Burnley, three points off the summit, were hoping to go level with Leeds after losing just twice so far this season.

Scott Parker’s men boast the meanest defence in English football with only nine goals conceded.

But Daniel Farke’s side are no slouches themselves and have suffered just three defeats so far.

Unfortunately for fans though, what should have been a thriller quickly turned into a drab affair.

Neither side wanted to relinquish their statuses as incredibly tough teams to beat.

And across the entire 90 minutes, just ONE shot between the sides was on target.

That honour went to Leeds, who ended up having eight attempts on goal.

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As for Burnley, they managed just four shots and failed to get a single one on target.

The Clarets also made sure to disrupt play as much as possible as their dogged stars made 13 tackles – resulting in nine fouls.

But Leeds incredibly managed to give away 11 fouls despite only making eight tackles themselves.

And fans were left to bemoan the lack of action as the whistle blew on a dismal 0-0 stalemate.

One said: “This Burnley Leeds game is, with no exaggeration, the worst game of any form of sport to have ever taken place.

“Every single person at the game, or who watched it, should be reimbursed.”

Another declared: “Drained the life out of me tonight.”

One noted: “I fell asleep and I was in the stadium.”

Another added: “Absolutely shambolic, poor fans.”

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