Kerry KatonaKerry Katona will reportedly be spending Christmas without her two oldest daughters after ex-husband Brian McFadden insisted they spend the holidays with him in Australia instead.

It was Kerry’s pregnancy with now seven year old Molly that ended her pop career with Atomic Kitten in 2001 and after their 2002 marriage, the pair welcomed daughter Lilly-Sue in 2003. Since the couple’s separation and eventual divorce in 2004, the couple have shared custody of the girls - with them based primarily with Kerry in Cheshire - but in the wake of her recent alcoholic scandal, Brian is said to be challenging for full time custody of the pair.

A source told Heat magazine that Brian’s demands to spend Christmas with his daughters is another sign the custody dispute may turn bitter: “Brian just called and asked for the girls over Christmas, but it’s really upset Kerry. She panicked and is very tearful at the moment.

“Kerry was looking forward to time alone with her girls this Christmas and she feels like Brian’s doing this on purpose.

“Her girls have been the things that have kept her going; they support and look after her.”

Kerry also has two further children - 21 month old daughter Heidi and eight month old son Max - with her current husband Mark Croft.