The record company really pissed me off when they told me to lose weight. I couldn't be bothered with looking a certain way. So I left the business. I don't regret it.

Sex does not exist for me at all. I haven't had a boyfriend for a long time. There were only three or four in my life up until now anyway.

My whole career was launched in such sort of poptastic style with 'Kids In America', and I liked - and like - being poptastic. Songs big on melody, high on energy, lots of attitude... what's wrong with that?

I don't mind being laughed at: that's something I really don't mind, and I think that's kept me sane. My ability to laugh at myself and allow others to laugh at me has been my saving grace.

I don't take myself seriously any more. Sometimes I just garden in my knickers and platform shoes.

Real talent will get through whatever the obstacles.

I didn't spend much time in America, which probably was a mistake. To someone else, having a number one in America would be enough to get them touring.