Arg still the Beale deal

THE self-proclaimed Ian Beale of TOWIE, James Argent, will return for the 20th series early this year.

Some eagle-eyed ITVBe fans noticed the longest-serving cast member was AWOL from the end of the last series and the Christmas special.

Despite his absence not being acknowledged or explained on the show, I can reveal he told bosses he needed a break to recharge his batteries and get over his ex Lydia Bright.

My source said: “Arg just needed a bit of time out from the show and away from Lydia.

“He was doing panto and didn’t want the show to make a big thing about him taking a short break.”

Another of the programme’s stars Danielle Armstrong has quit to get over long-term former flame James Locke.

But I’m assured Arg, who is currently sunning himself in Dubai, won’t be quitting because of Lydia.

My source added: “Arg has found it tough filming with his ex Lydia on the show but he will definitely be back.” TALKING of Danielle Armstrong, her ex James Locke reckons she will soon be back on screen despite her big Christmas exit. James told me: “I still don’t think Dani will leave. I still don’t believe her now. I reckon she will be back next year. She loves the show too much.” According to my TOWIE sources, James could be right. My insider added: “Dani has said she is leaving and won’t feature in the next series. “However, she has told producers she is open to the idea of going back for the odd episode if appropriate.” ED Sheeran will score huge No.1 and No.2 singles on Friday when the Official Chart is announced.

The only question is the order his new tracks Shape of You and Castle on the Hill will place in the chart.

Both songs are currently selling ten times as many copies as their nearest competition.

Shape of You is holding the top spot but is just a few thousand copies ahead of Castle on the Hill.

As far as I know, it will be the first time in history someone has gone straight into the top two positions.

It’s a welcome return for the ginger genius.