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In an age where models are photographed stumbling out of swanky bars more often than they are in an arranged shoot, forces sweetheart Nell McAndrew is a welcome break from the stereotypical view of a glamour model. While other celebrity models have come and gone, the Leeds-born fitness fanatic, charity ambassador and marathon mum is still going strong.

Having already successfully launched three fitness DVDs, Nell returns with ‘Cardio, Core & Stretch’ and warmed down with in Magazine’s Nick Dines..

iN) So Nell, you’re back with your fourth fitness DVD this Christmas. Why do you think your fitness regimes succeed where many other celebrities have failed?

NM) Because ours is the best! I really enjoy making fitness DVDs. We all love exercise. Since the last one, two of us have had babies. I am actually one of the youngest in the group so it just shows how exercise can help keep you looking younger. Our workouts are always about making you sweat and work hard. They are easy to follow but hard to do; a real challenge. I am passionate about exercise and I think that comes through in the DVD.

iN) Nell, are you fearful for the modern demands on young models?

NM) I think it is an extremely unhealthy image to promote and for young girls to aspire to. I don’t think there should be any models used who look so unhealthy. I also think that there should be an age limit of 16, too. If the fashion industry didn’t promote such an unrealistic and unhealthy image, then fewer girls would feel pressured into starving themselves.

iN) Do you think having a diverse career and not solely relying on modelling has enabled you to avoid being caught up in the shady side of the industry?

NM) Perhaps, but I’m very untrusting of people, always wary of people I don’t know. Although, I’m sure I have been a bit naïve at times. My goal was never to be famous, it was to succeed. I have never felt so desperate that I would do absolutely anything.

iN) What would be your advice to aspiring young models?

NM) To have a back-up plan! If you pin your hopes and dreams on one thing you could be setting yourself up for a big disappointment. It’s good to have dreams but you have to be
realistic too and think about how you are going to earn a living.

iN) Who in your opinion is the sexiest woman around?

NM) I think Claudia Winkleman always looks fantastic on It Takes Two. Her skin and hair always look great and I love the clothes she wears. Flavia, one of the professional dancers on Strictly Come Dancing, is gorgeous too! Elle McPherson looks amazing, what a body!.

iN) During a period of ‘fame for five minutes’, you’ve managed to stay in the mainstream longer than many. What’s your secret?

NM) I simply work very hard, and as time goes by I try and do as many things that I genuinely enjoy. I have always loved exercise and that has become a huge part of my career now. I hate the word ‘celebrity’; I never think I am any better than anybody else, I just have a different job.

iN) Do you think your healthy, active attitude will filter through to your son Devon?

NM) Hopefully! I am really trying to teach Devon manners, introducing him to sports and give him healthy foods. If people give him any, I eat them!

iN) Finally Nell, when you manage to get a night out on the town, where are your favourite hangouts?

NM) I can’t remember the last time I had a night out on the town – I think I am in need of one! Although, by 10pm I am usually pretty knackered! My perfect night is to have a lovely bath and put my pyjamas on and watch Strictly Come Dancing! I usually chomp my way through a whole bar of Green & Black’s dark chocolate with spicy orange!

Nell McAndrew: Cardio, Core & Stretch DVD is out now. Visit Nell’s website: http://www.nellmcandrew.tv