Darcey Bussell

Since finishing my professional dancing career, I've been conscious of not letting myself go. ”

I absolutely loved learning how to do stage make-up at 16: it was so interesting to learn all about what you can do with make-up, such as contouring or shadowing eyes. We had a lot of fun. ”

I need help to ensure I grow old gracefully! So now I always apply moisturiser and foundation with an SPF, to protect my skin from the sun. ”

I wore myself out physically and mentally over my career, and I couldn't be there for my daughters in ways I should have been. ”

If you have enough ambition, you can create talent! ”

Dancers are working their bodies just like a marathon runner would, and you have to eat to make it through a three-hour performance. Dancers put their bodies through incredible strain. ”

There are always younger and better dancers fighting to get your place. You get worn down by the fight to try to stay at the top. ”

I always knew I was a bit different from my friends, had too much energy, and suddenly I could get it all out with ballet. ”

I am damn good with money. ”

I do feel blessed to have small ears - I've never felt self-conscious when my hair is swept back. My feet are a different story - I grew up being painfully aware of them because they are so long. ”