Paul Hollywood Flies New Helicopter in His Garden

Paul Hollywood, the renowned star of the Great British Bake Off, has recently acquired a helicopter, reportedly costing around £500,000, which he has been flying over his expansive garden in Kent. The 58-year-old baker, who began his culinary journey at his father's shop in Liverpool, is currently training for his private pilot's license. However, his new hobby has raised eyebrows among local residents, who are expressing their discontent over the noise and disruption caused by the aircraft. In a related community issue, Hollywood has shown support for local residents concerned about the future of a historic pub in Ashford. The pub, a 14th-century coaching inn, is facing closure as the owners deem it financially unviable to operate daily. Local resident Melissa, who has invested £40,000 of her own savings into the establishment, voiced her frustrations at a recent Ashford Borough Council meeting. The community has rallied together to form the Smarden Community Pub group, aiming to raise £825,000 to purchase the pub and preserve it for future generations. Hollywood's financial success has been notable, with reports indicating he earned an impressive £14 million in the past year, largely from his role on Bake Off since its inception in 2010. His income also includes various advertising and promotional deals, which have contributed to his wealth. Recently, he celebrated being named in the King's New Year Honours list, receiving an MBE for his contributions to television. The Mirror has reached out to Hollywood's representatives for further comment on these developments.