Mandy Forwood has transformed her home into a sanctuary for her spiky little friends

WE nearly owned a cat once. He caused something of a neighbourhood dispute, too. My other half advised keeping our heads down because of it, but I really couldn’t do that when pegging out the washing.

A s I write this, just a week before Christmas, it’s a wonderfully frantic time in the office as we sign off magazines and race to meet deadlines, all in the hope of enjoying a well-deserved rest over

Our pick of your best letters and some wise words from our favourite stars…

H&H’s hunting editor Catherine Austen shares a somewhat predictable remedy for all of your Christmas woes

Not all retired horses fade away. Many blossom into reliable, steady companions — if you’re willing to adapt care routines for their changing needs. Catherine Welton finds out more Celebrating seniors