Stenson enjoying life after 'Hollyoaks'

Carley Stenson has said that she is doing what she's "always wanted to do" since leaving her role as Steph in Hollyoaks.

The actress is currently appearing in West End show Legally Blonde, where she has appeared alongside Denise Van Outen, Peter Davison and Sheridan Smith.

Speaking to the St Helens Star, Stenson revealed: "I think I've always wanted to do this and have been training for it all my life.

"It is just brilliant and is possibly the strongest my voice has ever been, perhaps because I'm using it every day and have got into a good routine."

Stenson has a 12-month contract with the Savoy Theatre production, in which she plays Margot. However, she recently filled in for the leading role of Elle Woods, usually played by Susan McFadden.

Stenson said that a large contingent of family and friends came to watch her playing the part of Elle. She added: "I had 19 people come down from St Helens and Manchester and my boyfriend even flew over from Los Angeles."

Discussing her role as Steph, who battled cervical cancer before dying in a fire, Stenson said: "I do miss Hollyoaks and I really do miss my character, and was gutted that she had to die. But in ten years there I definitely did as much as I could and had some brilliant storylines.

"I'm currently on a contract here and would like to do more roles - there are so many great parts out there and beautiful songs to sing."