Newton Family Shock: Matt's New Crisis!

Bert and Patti are reeling over the news their son Matthew has ended his latest engagement

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They have endured ill health and bounced back from financial ruin, but the end of their famously troubled son Matthew’s engagement to a US socialite has “devastated” Bert and Patti Newton and left them extremely worried for him.

“It’s the worst possible news for Patti coming up to Christmas,” confirms one close friend, who says the showbiz matriarch is ready to pack her bags and fly to New York to comfort Matthew, amid fears he will sink back into depression.

“She was hoping for the best Christmas present of all – another grandchild. Both she and Bert were over the moon at the thought of becoming grandparents to a child of Matthew’s because they knew he was trying for a baby. Patti will be inconsolable.”

FEARS FOR MATTHEW

Just 12 months ago Bert, 79, and Patti, 72, were celebrating their 40-year-old son’s engagement to New York socialite Catherine Schneiderman after he presented her with an impressive diamond ring.

“I have always prayed for a happy ending, and I think it has arrived,” an excited Bert said at the time. “Patti and I are thrilled. We love him as a son, and this is the best thing we could hope for.”