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Daily Mirror
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Dua Lipa sends fans wild as she brings 90s icon on stage during Wembley gig
Dua Lipa surprised fans at Wembley Stadium on Friday evening with a surprise appearance from Jamiroquai. Dua and Jamiroquai performed an incredible duet of 1996 hit, Virtual Insanity, for her Radical Optimism tour. Vocalist Jay Kay was rocking a classic black hat with purple trim and a white jacket for the surprise performance. Fans were over the moon with the shock guest and rushed to social media to share their excitement, with one user "wishing" they were at the concert in London. * This is a breaking showbiz news story. Join The Mirror 's WhatsApp Community or follow us on Google News, Flipboard, Apple News, TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads - or visit The Mirror homepage.
Daily Mirror
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
JLS' Aston Merrygold rushed to hospital as he shares concerning ambulance snap
Aston Merrygold has been rushed to the hospital, he's revealed. The musician who shot to fame on The X Factor took to his Instagram Stories to share a collection of selfies taken in the back of an ambulance. 37-year-old Aston was hooked to an intravenous line as he was strapped to a stretcher while on board the emergency vehicle. "It's been an interesting 13 hours," he commented. One image saw Aston lying with a pair of sunglasses on, while a second saw a sticky tab on the back of his hand as he put his thumb up for the selfie. This is a breaking showbiz news story. Join The Mirror 's WhatsApp Community or follow us on Google News , Flipboard , Apple News, TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads - or visit The Mirror homepage.
Style Blueprint
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Style Blueprint
You Can Brunch with Alpacas at Durrant Farms in NC!
Share with your friends! Pinterest LinkedIn Email Flipboard Reddit About 20 minutes outside Asheville, in the rolling hills of Leicester, Durrant Farms offers one of the most delightful (and downright heartwarming) experiences in North Carolina … brunch with alpacas. Yes, it's a thing. And yes, it's as enchanting as it sounds. Owned by the warm and welcoming husband-and-wife duo Whitney and Tom Durrant, this charming farm is part working alpaca haven, part bed-and-breakfast, part 'did I just fall into a storybook?' wonder. Guests are invited to slow down and sip coffee and pastries beneath a covered picnic area in the pasture, surrounded by panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and an elite squad of four-legged fluff-balls, fondly referred to as 'The Boys.' Pin I was fortunate to experience this little slice of Appalachian heaven, and the memories are indelible. The adventure began as we wound down a gravel drive, crossing paths with Tom Durrant himself, who gave us a friendly wave from his ATV and pointed us toward the pavilion. That's where we met Whitney and Grace (the farm's trusted Hospitality Manager), who welcomed us warmly and led us into the pasture, where the real hosts were already waiting. Ralph the alpaca (my personal favorite and instant emotional support animal) and Heartbreaker the llama were first to greet us, casually strolling over like old friends. Pin Pin With a promise to keep the gate firmly latched behind us (because no one wants an unexpected escape attempt), we made our way to the open-air brunch table, thoughtfully dressed with linens and cheerful faux flowers (Whitney wisely discovered that real ones are simply too irresistible for curious alpacas). Pin Pin Before we go any further, let's meet the crew, shall we? There are four alpacas: Ralph (my personal favorite and a total heartthrob), Scully (the baby of the group who will do just about anything for a treat), Hotline (the wise elder who will peer directly into your soul), and Micah (a little shy at first, but a total sweetheart once he warms up). They're joined by two equally charismatic llamas: Brinkley (skittish but endearing) and Heartbreaker (who lived up to his name by shamelessly trying to con me out of my scone, but more on that in a moment). Together, they strut around like they own the place. And honestly, they kind of do. 'The llamas came separately, adopted from Divine Llama Vineyards in East Bend, NC,' Whitney shares. 'Heartbreaker now runs the show while Brinkley is always on alert, keeping watch for any potential threats to the herd.' Pin While you dig into breakfast, the alpacas and llamas get their own treats, making them extra sociable. They wander over for snacks, selfies, and the occasional nuzzle. 'They've all become the unofficial welcoming committee of the farm,' Whitney says. 'Every one of them has their own personality, and watching guests connect with them has been one of the most meaningful parts of building this place.' But that's not to say you don't have to keep an eye on your pastries. Heartbreaker, in particular, made a valiant attempt to charm me into sharing my scone, but I stuck to doling out approved alpaca treats. Pin Pin The brunch menu, by the way, is no afterthought. ButterPunk — an Asheville bakery in the River Arts District led by the 'Queen of Biscuits,' Beth Kellerhals — serves up impossibly delicious baked goods that almost steal the show. Almost. It's hard to compete with Ralph. P.S. Scroll down to see a picture of him as a baby. How can you resist that face? Pin 'The alpaca adventures actually all started because of Ralph,' Whitney says. 'We met a sweet woman at the Southeastern Animal Fiber Fair who showed us a photo of a baby alpaca she'd just had. His face was shaped like a heart, and we immediately started calling him Loverboy. That baby was Ralph. A few months later, we brought him home along with his three 'brothers': Scully, Hotline, and Micah.' Pin Pin Even as a light rain rolled in, none of us seemed to mind. With the Blue Ridge Mountains serving as a dramatic, cloud-kissed backdrop, it was simply magical. Pin Whitney and Tom, who welcomed their first child in 2024, have poured their hearts into creating a place where nature meets hospitality. In addition to brunch, they offer happy hour gatherings, llama treks, and host picturesque weddings by the pond. There's even a short walking trail on the property that offers a lovely scenic view of the farm if you want to stretch your legs before or after your alpaca rendezvous. Visitors can stay overnight at their on-site bed and breakfast (available on Airbnb and not to be confused with their guest house about 15 minutes away). Pin And how did it all begin, you might ask? 'Durrant Farms really started as a dream Tom and I had for a life closer to the land,' says Whitney. 'We wanted to raise our family with animals and fresh air, homegrown food, and give people a space to slow down — somewhere they could celebrate with loved ones and connect with the land and the animals in a beautiful way.' Boy, did they ever. 'What began as a small farmstay with alpaca experiences gradually grew,' Whitney continues. 'People started asking if they could bring larger groups, host bachelorette parties, even plan full weddings. We couldn't quite do that at our first property, so in September 2024, we packed up our herd, our newborn baby, and our lives, and moved about 15 minutes closer to Asheville. That's when Durrant Farms Estate was born — a wedding venue and sanctuary space where people can celebrate, reconnect, and breathe a little easier. We still offer brunch with alpacas and peaceful farmstays, but now we also get to welcome larger groups for events of all kinds, from retreats to full weekend weddings.' Pin Pin Before leaving, guests can also browse the sweet little farm shop inside the pavilion, stocked with goodies either inspired by The Boys or made from their fleece, such as beanies, slippers, skeins of yarn, felted dryer balls, coasters, and more — souvenirs that will bring a little piece of Durrant Farms's charm home with you. We came. We saw. We mingled with alpacas. We got the t-shirt. (And some alpaca fleece socks, and some felted fleece coasters) Admittedly, we were reluctant to leave. As I made my way back down the gravel path, Ralph and I exchanged one last wistful glance. I think we both knew the magic of that rainy morning would be hard to top. Pin Come for the biscuits, stay for the alpacas, and don't be surprised if you leave with alpaca hair on your shirt, and a full heart. ********** Find more fantastic Southern destinations in our Travel archives! About the Author Jenna Bratcher Jenna Bratcher is StyleBlueprint Nashville's Associate Editor and Lead Writer. The East Coast native moved to Nashville 17 years ago, by way of Los Angeles. She is a lover of dogs, strong coffee, traveling, and exploring the local restaurant scene bite by bite.
Style Blueprint
3 days ago
- Style Blueprint
The Perfect Girls' Weekend Itinerary for Oxford, MS
Share with your friends! Pinterest LinkedIn Email Flipboard Reddit Oxford, MS, has all the makings of an unforgettable girls' weekend — charming boutiques, delicious dining spots, and a laid-back vibe inviting you to slow down and stay awhile. Whether you're planning a reunion, birthday trip, or just a spontaneous escape with your closest friends, here's how to spend a picture-perfect weekend in this beloved Mississippi gem. Check into a Chic Hotel The right stay sets the tone for any getaway. Luckily, Oxford is home to various unique boutique hotels that make for the perfect home base. For a hotel that blends Southern traditions with modern comforts, book a room at The Oliver Hotel. It is situated right off the Square and conveniently located to some of the city's best shopping and dining. It also houses 40 well-appointed rooms and suites, an on-site restaurant, and an intimate speakeasy. Kingswood Restaurant & Bar offers authentic Southern cuisine, while Nightbird is known for its creative craft cocktails. Pin Another popular boutique hotel, Graduate by Hilton offers a truly authentic Oxford experience. In addition to cozy guest rooms and thoughtful amenities, the hotel offers two on-site dining options — Cabin 82 for breakfast and lunch, and The Coop, a rooftop bar with sweeping views and delicious bites. Pin Fuel Up for Your Day After a good night's rest, start your morning with coffee and pastries from Bottletree Bakery, a local café known for its European-style breads made fresh daily. You'll also find a lineup of signature drinks, fresh cookies, and homemade granola. Heartbreak Coffee is another great option for a morning pick-me-up. The local coffeehouse is women-founded and offers everything from lattes to fresh muffins and delectable donuts. For a quintessential Southern brunch, head to Big Bad Breakfast, where the biscuits are flaky, the grits are creamy, and the side dishes are an underrated addition to any meal. Standout entrées include the bruléed grapefruit and the chicken and waffles. Shop The Square Since Oxford's incorporation in 1837, the Square has been a bustling cultural and economic hub. Today, it's a go-to destination for shopping and local charm. You and your girlfriends could easily spend an afternoon here, popping in and out of boutiques for gifts, on-trend fashion, and unique finds. Browse popular women's boutiques like Ginger G, Cicada, and JANE, or head to Olive Juice Gifts for a mix of home decor and fashion-forward accessories. And don't miss Neilson's Department Store, a local icon since 1839. It's known for its collection of clothing for women, men, and children, as well as timeless home goods. Pin Square Books is a must for book lovers. This beloved, two-story bookstore is the perfect place to find your next great read or pick up a quirky, Southern-inspired gift. Bonus: There's an on-site café if you're in need of a mid-shopping coffee break and a balcony overlooking the Square. For a truly unforgettable shopping experience, stop into Inside Discount. You're almost guaranteed to find something here, as the store is filled from top to bottom with home goods and decor (think pillows, vases, artwork, faux flowers, mirrors, and so much more). Pin Immerse Yourself in Local Culture No trip to Oxford is complete without exploring the city's rich cultural roots, and few places embody that spirit more than Rowan Oak, the former home of American author William Faulkner. While visiting, be sure to stroll the Bailey Woods Trail, a scenic footpath that connects Rowan Oak to the University of Mississippi Museum. Plus, it was once a favorite walking route of William Faulkner himself. Once you arrive at the Ole Miss campus, you'll enjoy everything from tree-lined sidewalks to stately architecture and landmarks that reflect the university's storied past. Enjoy Live Music Known as 'The Cultural Mecca of the South,' no trip to Oxford is complete without a visit to The Lyric Theatre. Be sure to check the venue's calendar to see who might be playing when you're in town. Previous acts include The Black Keys, Willie Nelson, and Kacey Musgraves. Many of Oxford's local bars and restaurants also host live music events. This is a great way to see local talent and enjoy more of the city's food and beverage scene. Popular spots include Proud Larry's, The Library Sports Bar, and Rafters Music and Food. Dine on Elevated Southern Cuisine When you're ready for dinner, Oxford is home to some of the best and most authentic Southern cuisine. The legendary City Grocery is a popular fine-dining destination known for its shrimp and grits, pork belly tostadas, and crawfish scampi. City Grocery's sister restaurant, Snackbar, is billed as 'Oxford's neighborhood restaurant and living room.' Inviting guests to sip, savor, and stay awhile, the eatery's menu is chock-full of delicious favorites — from oysters to gourmet sandwiches and craft cocktails. Craving Italian? Head to Saint Leo for a fresh take on upscale comfort food. Inspired by owner Emily Blount's dream to serve food like her mother did — with heart and hospitality — the restaurant crafts dishes using local ingredients and seasonal flavors. Whether you go for pizza, pasta, or something in between, it's a meal worth lingering over. Pin With its perfect blend of Southern charm, lively culture, and warm hospitality, Oxford, MS, promises a girls' getaway filled with unforgettable moments and lasting memories. To begin planning your adventures, check out This article is sponsored by Visit Oxford MS. About the Author Brianna Goebel Brianna is StyleBlueprint's Associate Editor and Sponsored Content Manager. She is an avid fan of iced coffee and spends her free time reading romance novels.
Daily Mirror
5 days ago
- Sport
- Daily Mirror
Royal Ascot horse Harry's Girl dies after tragedy seconds into opening race
The opening race of Royal Ascot's second day was hit by tragedy with the death of Harry's Girl. It was just the dame's third race, having won on debut at Newmarket in April before an appearance at York in May. But racing for the Richard Hannon-Sean Levey combination, she sadly broke down just seconds into the five furlong race. "Unfortunately, Harry's Girl suffered a fatal injury during The Queen Mary Stakes," a statement from Ascot Racecourse said. "Our thoughts go out to all connections at this time." The tragic incident comes just weeks after Norman's Cay, another horse trained by Hannon, died during the Derby meet at Epsom. True Love shed her maiden tag in style with victory for Aidan O'Brien, under Ryan Moore. True Love had chased home Tuesday's Coventry Stakes winner and stablemate Gstaad on her latest start and was duly sent off the 9-4 favourite. She took some time to work her way into the race as Zelaina set a scorching early pace, but she stayed on to real effect in the final furlong to beat 100-1 shot Flowerhead, with Patrick Biancone's American raider Lennilu third. and Mirror Sport will bring you the very latest updates, pictures and video as soon as possible. check back regularly for updates on this developing story. on Google News, Flipboard, Apple News, Twitter, Facebook or visit The Mirror homepage.
