‘i hid away on holiday – now i’m 5st lighter and loving life!’

The One Show’s Alex Jones on friendship, her work ethic and why money really isn’t everything

Fire up the barbecue for these tasty weekend feasts Sticky barbecued short ribs and slaw These can be made a couple of days ahead – perfect for fuss-free entertaining. SERVES 8 PREP 20 MINS, PLUS MARI

With summer almost over and kids getting ready to go back to school, many of us will be thinking about eating better and feeling energised. If you’re looking for some inspiration, the recipes in this five-day plan from Slimming World will help you get started. Follow the plan for two weeks and you could lose up to 7lbs.*

Executive producer Hannah Cheers lifts the lid on a thrilling new chapter for the soap…

PREP TIME: 15 MINS COOK TIME: 25 MINS CALS: 612 FAT: 33G SAT FAT: 7G CARBS: 27G SERVES 4 This Japanese-style curry sauce works really well with crumbed pork, or use chicken thighs if you prefer. YOU W

Merrie couldn’t find her husband anywhere. The day before Christmas Eve was always busy and at 9.30am she’d expect to find him in the warehouse, checking on packing and loading and last-minute orders.