I'm big on saying yes..

to pizza, staying up late... and spending time with people who make you'belly laugh

- BY MARK JEFFERIES

SHE remains busy with TV work and it seems her life off screen is just as packed but Helen Skelton wouldn't have it any other way.

And not surprisingly, going into 2026 after two decades on TV, there are no signs of things changing for her. "I think every year is a gift," she says.

"I've lost family really young - in their 20s - so I don't take anything for granted.

"My dad's 70 now and I'm really close to him, my mum and my brother. Nothing's promised. So I'm big on saying yes - go for lunch, go away for the weekend, stay up late, have the pizza. Everyone gets so obsessed with resolutions - no sugar, early nights, herbal tea.

"But, honestly, laughter and time with your mates are just as good for you. Take the pressure off. Spend time with people who make you belly laugh - that's the real reset."

At 42, former Blue Peter presenter Helen's onscreen work now includes BBC Morning Live and Channel 5 travel show Yorkshire Great and Small.

The star, who has three children, Elsie, Ernie and Louis, with ex-husband Richie Myler, told Prima magazine the balance seems to be right - even if in her life that means a bit of chaos.

Helen says: "Something I've really embraced since turning 40 is that sense of acceptance: 'We are who we are.' That's my mantra.