Pop stars seeking a peaceful country life often face a surprising hurdle: the disapproval of their new rural neighbours. This classic clash is now playing out in the Surrey green belt, where a Eurovision winner's development plans have stirred up a local controversy.
Surrey Green Belt Dispute Hits High Note
Jay Aston, who triumphed at Eurovision with Bucks Fizz in 1981, has applied to convert a barn on her estate into a residential dwelling. The 64-year-old singer and her husband, David Colquhoun, already host guests in a one-bedroom apartment on the grounds. Their new proposal includes an open-plan living area, kitchen, office, and a private garden.
However, the bid for a 'change of use' on the protected land has met stiff resistance from residents. One neighbour's letter to the council argued that approving such plans would alter the lane's cherished rural character, stating they had moved there specifically for its setting.
Another objector raised practical concerns, focusing on a narrow, poorly maintained bridleway that provides access. They warned that increased vehicle traffic would worsen the track's condition, which already turns into a stream in wet weather, creating safety issues for pedestrians and horse riders. Council officials are set to make a decision later this month.
Tom Hardy's Blockbuster Business Profits
In other news, Tom Hardy's financial fortunes continue to soar. The Peaky Blinders star, 48, channels his earnings through a performing arts company named 33 1/3 RD. Newly published accounts reveal the firm's net worth increased by over £6 million last year, reaching a staggering £28.3 million.
The company reportedly made a profit of approximately £117,000 per week in the year to November 2024. Hardy, famed for roles in Inception and Venom, also holds £29.6 million in cash according to the latest figures.
Royal Seal for Queen-Inspired Restaurant
Meanwhile, a Mayfair restaurant paying homage to the late Queen Elizabeth has received a royal nod of approval. Lilibet's, located at 17 Bruton Street—the very address where the Queen was born—reportedly hosted Queen Camilla as a diner last week. A fellow patron noted she was likely accompanied by her daughter, Laura.
In family news, tennis legend Boris Becker introduced his 31-year-old son Noah to his new baby sister, Zoe. The infant was born last month to Becker, 58, and his third wife, Lilian de Carvalho Monteiro.
Elsewhere, entrepreneur Trinny Woodall expressed concern over her daughter Lyla's vaping habit. The 61-year-old beauty expert admitted she finds it 'challenging' and worries about the unknown long-term effects of the chemicals involved.
Theatre founders also faced drama off-stage, as the co-founders of new West End venture The House of Sisters Grimm revealed they endured a major fraud scandal during setup, with a now-convicted individual failing to transfer funds after months of contracted work.
Finally, Bridgerton actress Genevieve Chenneour made a striking appearance at a Soho members' club launch in a transparent star-adorned dress, months after fighting off a thief in a London cafe.
