Style Interviews_Lynda Bellingham

ONE of Lynda’s most recent ventures has been her participation in Strictly Come Dancing. I asked her whether becoming a contestant had been a difficult decision to make. ‘No, not really, it is the
only reality show I would have considered doing and my family wanted me to do it as well.’
The training involved seemed pretty tough and I wondered whether Lynda had needed to make many changes to her diet and fitness routine before taking part. ‘No, I am quite fi t and didn’t find the schedule that gruelling.
The hours of training were a bit relentless though especially when fitting it in with other work.
I know how disparaging kids can be about their parents being in the spotlight and I was interested to hear how Lynda’s kids reacted to their Mum taking part in Strictly. She said it really surprised her how very supportive they were. ‘My
eldest came to a show and really loved it. I hasten to add that he was
more interested in the pro dancers than me. Female that is!’
I asked Lynda what the highlight of Strictly had been. ‘The best moment was the group dance. I loved being with everyone and all working together for all those hours’. So what has Lynda got planned for the New Year. ‘I am going off on
tour in January 2010 with Calendar Girls. My eldest son is also in the
play with me, which is very exciting. Then, I have my autobiography coming out on March 4th and lots
more Loose Women. So I am very busy Thank God!’ Lastly, I just had to know if
Lynda really does use Oxos. ‘I always used to use Oxos in my
cooking although my gravy always contained a good deal more alcohol
than in the adverts. Now I split my cooking between Oxo and Knorr. If
they had me back I would banish the Knorr though.’