SHE INSPIRED ACTRESS FOR ROLE IN HIT TV DRAMA
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Sergeant Victoria Bruce, from the Royal Army Medical Corps, mentored the actress for her acclaimed role as Lance Corporal Georgie Lane. The 28-year- old, of Alyth in Perthshire, is delighted with the former Corrie star’s performance so far, saying it highlights the important role women play in the Army. Victoria, who joined up when she was just 16, spent two days with Michelle, giving her an insight into what it is like to be a combat medic on the frontline. She said: “I got a phone call asking if I would meet Michelle for a casual dinner as she was researching her new role as an army medic. “We had a lovely evening and she asked if she could spend a day with me so she could watch what I did and seek advice about aspects of my job. “She was so lovely and down-toearth and very keen to learn. She asked me simple things like how I put my hair up under my helmet and how I ran with a heavy pack on my back without looking like a girl. “She also wanted to know how I coped when I was a lone female in the field surrounded by men and if it was easy to become one of the boys. “I told her you have to give as good as you get. If someone says something to you, then you have to dish it back whether they are male or female – you have to hold your own. If you can do that, you will win the respect of your peers.” The former Blairgowrie High pupil added: “You also need to have a good sense of humour and that’s when my Scottish banter has held me in good stead. You learn to give lip and cheek back and you quickly learn how to be robust. I told Michelle you just have to man up and handle yourself.” Victoria says the star’s portrayal has been inspirational and real istic, if somewhat overdramatised for entertainment. She added: “Michelle has been doing us female Army medics proud. She is getting the positive
Sunday Mail