BEHIND THE SCENES WITH best ‘I’M A TOUGHER JUDGE THAN I THOUGHT I’ D BE’

Abbey Clancy, 31, is a model and TV presenter from Liverpool. Runner-up on Britain’s Next Top Model in 2006 (and winner of Strictly in 2013), she is married to footballer Peter Crouch and they have two daughters.

How does it feel to be Head Judge on the show that launched your career?

Old! These 18-year-olds are looking at me and thinking, ‘This is where it could all start…’

What’s your judging style?

I’m mother hen but with no messing. Some girls moan about the clothes; they don’t like waiting around. They think you can just take a nice photo on your phone and be a model. But you need to be fit, healthy and work long hours. I’m tougher than I thought I would be.

What’s your secret to staying so trim?

I honestly don’t diet or work out regularly. I’m just always running around. The only exercise I do is Bootcamp Pilates.

Would you ever give it up and just be a WAG?

I know I don’t have to work. Pete earns enough for the two of us. But it would be so boring! It’s good for my daughters to see they have got to work.

You’re not into a flashy lifestyle either, are you?

No, and Pete’s not either. He’s not bothered what car he’s got, and he’s not into watches or clothes. He’d put a bin bag on if I gave him it. We haven’t changed.

What were you like as a teen?

Quite wild! At 15, I snuck out and wore my mum’s work pants and sequin butterfly Mariah Careyesque top… I got into serious trouble.

l Britain’sNext TopModel,

Lifetime, Thursday, 9pm