Quotes from Laila Rouass

If I'm going to a party, I dance for as long as possible to burn the calories - the jive is great because you're on your toes a lot so it works your calves, thighs and bum.

My style is all over the place. It goes by my mood, but on a day-to-day basis it's relaxed and comfortable, just jeans and T-shirts and no heels unless I'm going to a meeting.

My father is Moroccan and I have fond childhood memories of holidays there.

While other people were dreaming of big cars and houses, I just wanted a huge dressing room.

I love Louboutins and Jimmy Choos, but I've got pairs I've never worn, because I'm still waiting to find the outfit that will go with them.

A lot of mums are torn between their work and missing out on important milestones in their children's lives.

I was brought up a Muslim and I respect the religion I was born into, but I don't practise it. However, I do believe in thanking God for my happy life.

My biggest financial fear is dying and not leaving enough to see my daughter through to adulthood and financial independence.

I want my daughter to grow up with some kind of ambition. I want her to work and to have that independence.

Every time I tell someone that I'm doing 'Spooks,' they're like, 'Wow!' That's a guaranteed reaction. It's such a high-end show, it's so sexy and slick and smooth.

I don't think anyone imagines themselves being a single parent. But I don't have a choice.

Jimmy Akingbola, Ed MacLiam and Hugh Quarshie are all so fit!

I can't stand the smell of beer.

As a single parent, it can really be tough if the father's not in the picture much. Physically, emotionally and financially, you are trying to be there for your child and it can really get on top of you.

I'm the sole provider for my child, I don't get any help. I'm not saying we're poverty stricken, but it does mean I have to work hard.

I love salad, but I have to have something 'solid' with it because I don't feel satisfied without carbs.

If I'm in the wrong, I'll always say sorry, but sometimes it takes a while.

My mother's incredibly independent and she brought us up to be the same. She had five daughters and two sons and only allowed one mirror in the house because she didn't want us to be obsessed with our looks or weight.

For modeling, you have to be photogenic, but to be a VJ, you actually project your whole personality.

Mohammed Ali. He's much more than a boxer. He's also a passionate idealist who fought for his people. I respect him - and, of course, he was very handsome in his younger days.

I'm over the moon to be joining the cast of 'Holby' and am enjoying bringing the character of Sahira Shah to life.

When I had my daughter and split up with her father six months later, I had a really hard time.

There is no other parent for Inez. When I was working, I never got to hear about her day or chat about what she was learning or do any reading with her because by the time I got home my nanny had put her to bed.

I believe that a university education should be free as it is unfair on people who cannot afford to pay for it.