'Apprentice' Susan Ma: 'People thought I was an easy target'

Susan Ma has suggested that some of her Apprentice rivals thought she was an "easy target".

The skincare company founder finished third on this year's series behind Helen Milligan and eventual winner Tom Pellereau.

Ma told the Evening Standard: "There were times when I was surprised by the way people were speaking to me and by what they were saying.

"At certain points people felt that I was an easy target and perhaps easier to get rid of."

Ma added that some comments from the other contestants were "hurtful" but said of the Apprentice process: "It brings out the worst side in you.

"I don't think the other candidates would behave like that normally. I'm friends with them all now and they are absolutely lovely to me."

Ma clarified that she does now speak to Zoe Beresford, despite previously describing her as "one of the bitchiest and most backstabbing people I've ever met".

Apprentice boss Lord Alan Sugar has indicated that he will keep in contact with Ma and suggested that "there may be some synergy" with her skincare firm and show winner Pellereau's nail file business.

Watch Susan Ma's original Apprentice audition video below: