I've never particularly liked the idea of looking back; I'd rather look forward

The things you leave school knowing - some dates and long division - so much of it has been of no use to me. Schools should teach the basics of cookery, first aid, how to look after your money and how to speak foreign languages. Useful things.

My mum taught me that redheads shouldn't wear pink, red or orange, but if you choose the right shade, such as a bright orange or a cherry red, it can look fabulous.

I swim more or less every day.

The rehearsal time is almost my favourite part of being an actress, particularly if you're working on a play that hasn't been done before.

I don't agree with the whole 'my mother's my friend' approach, because you're their mum and there has to be a difference between the generations.

I learnt basic cookery by watching my mum.