Kensit: 'Strictly is an amazing diversion'

Patsy Kensit has admitted that competing in Strictly Come Dancing has provided a welcome distraction from her personal problems.

Earlier this year the Holby City actress split from her fourth husband DJ Jeremy Healy, after less than a year of marriage. Speaking to The Mirror, she said that dancing was the "diversion" she needed.

"A lot of people are having a crummy time at the moment, it's not unique to me," she said. "Yes, I've had a bad year but I haven't looked for sympathy, I own up to my mistakes.

"Whatever the outcome is I take the responsibility."

She continued: "This whole Strictly experience has been such an amazing diversion from my life and from what I do as an actress."

The 42-year-old revealed that she had turned down an invite to appear on the show several times.

"I was glad to be asked this year," she said. "I would advise anyone to try it. If you've had a rough time, go to a dance class because it does lift your spirits - just don't do it in front of Craig Revel Horwood!

"It's turned out to be just what I needed."

> Kensit: 'I was ready to leave Strictly'