Top Model star admits: 'I'm anorexic'

The new series of Britain's Next Top Model has been marred in controversy after it emerged that one of its contestants is anorexic.

Jade McSorley, who weighs just under seven stone and was treated in hospital last year, has been battling the disease since she was eight and is shown struggling to overcome her problems on the show.

Living TV, which airs the new series from next week, defended the decision to include McSorley, claiming that it helped the contestant gain access to physicians and dieticians.

Speaking to Heat, McSorley admitted that she was concerned about "promoting an unhealthy image on the show".

"I never wanted to come across as losing weight just to be skinny. Obviously I'm still going through [anorexia]. It's something you have with you for life," she added.

However, the Eating Disorders Association's Mary George defended the model's decision to appear on the show.

"It's important to acknowledge that the powerful influence the modelling world has can be highly toxic to some vulnerable young people," she said.

"Nevertheless, that the industry is recognising its responsibility in this way by monitoring Jade's health must be applauded."

The fifth series of Britain's Next Top Model starts at 9pm on Living on Monday.