‘People even mistake us for each other’

Kim Clarke, 45, from Tamworth, Staffordshire.

‘“You look exactly alike,” smiled a handsome 20-something man, sidling up to me and Alex at the bar. “Are you sisters?” But while I smiled broadly, Alex looked shocked. I can’t blame her, because not only is she my daughter, we were out celebrating her 18th birthday! ‘Alex is my youngest girl and, now 24, she has a daughter of her own, Orla, two. Along with my first-born, 27-year-old Leigh’s two children, Owyn, seven, and Eliza, two, I’m a grandmother of three, so being mistaken for a 20-something is a wonderful confidence boost. ‘ When I was younger, my mum, Rita, taught me the importance of cleansing, toning and moisturising every night. I definitely have her to thank for my youthful appearance. She passed away two years ago, but at 72, my mum didn’t look her age, either. I guess good genes run in the family. ‘People have always said I look half my age, but it wasn’t until Alex was a teen that people started mistaking us for sisters. People even mix us up. Alex’s friends have stopped me in the street to chat, only to realise midconversation I’m not her! ‘One time, a taxi driver thought me and Alex were twins. I don’t take these comments seriously, but I always enjoy hearing them – who wouldn’t?’ l Alex, 24, says, ‘Mum has always been stunning. When I was younger, I’d watch her get ready and think, “I’d be lucky to grow up to be half as beautiful as her,” so I’m thrilled when people think we’re twins!’