'It was a really hard time mentally'

Josh and Hollie Wright talk about their festive plans after a tough year for the family

- MITYA UNDERWOOD

Christmas is Josh and Hollie Wright’s “favourite time of year” and, after what has been a difficult 2023, festive preparations are in full swing for the family of four.

The couple’s second son Dustin was born 12 weeks early in February, weighing a tiny 2.4lb. He spent eight weeks in hospital before being allowed home to join older brother Josh, now 20 months.

Chatting exclusively to new, the couple say the tot is now “loving life”, adding that they’re preparing for a Wright family Christmas extravaganza.

“To have both boys this year will be something really special and we can’t wait,” professional footballer Josh, 34, told us. “We’ve got one tree up and the other is going up tonight – Hollie’s making a Disney tree for the boys. I’ve got to go and pick up a few outdoor trees today and we’re doing lights all outside and in the bushes. We love it!”

But the holiday is about far more than just lights and presents for the couple. It’s about getting together with their close-knit families, including Josh’s sister Jess, 38, and brother Mark, 36.

“With everything going on in the world at the moment, Christmas is a time for people to come together and relax a bit,” he says. “We love everything about it – the socialising, all the food and drink. And now, with the boys, Santa will come down the chimney and it’ll be even more special.”

The couple married in a gorgeous ceremony in Majorca in 2018, where Hollie, 34, was supported by a 12-strong crew of bridesmaids while Josh’s brother Mark was best man.