Jennifer Ellison rose to fame in the role of Emily Shadwick on Channel 4 soap, Brookside. Since leaving the series she's embarked on a career in pop. We caught up with her for a quick chat about her new singing career

What have you been doing since you left Brookside?
I've been really busy recording an album and single.

What made you decide to go into music?
I didn't just decide. I've always had the intention to do it. I've never had an acting class, but I've sung and danced since I was three years old. It's what I've always wanted to do.

Your new single is a cover version of the eighties classic Baby I Don't Care originally by Transvision Vamp. Did you choose it?
Yes, I chose it, just to go on the album at first. But when the record company heard it they said it was going to be one of the releases, then it ended-up being the first one.

What kind of style is the album?
It's kinda rock-pop, there are a few ballards on there as well, but you can't keep changing style through an album. So it's mainly pop and funky rock stuff.

Are you planning on going into movies?
I want to focus on music right now, but I've been offered a script, so I'm going to go through that and see what it's like first. I'll have to see if I've got the time really.

Who are your showbiz pals?
All the guys from Brookside. I still keep in touch with all of them - they're great. I don't see them that much any more, though, because I'm so busy, but I probably catch up with them once a month, when I go home to see my mum and dad. I speak to them all the time.

Which women do you most admire?
Princess Diana - she was a fabulous woman; Victoria Beckham - I admire her style and the way she's kept going and, lastly, I admire my mum 'cos she's great.

How do you stay fit?
I don't do any exercise, but I'm beginning to put a bit of weight on, so I'm going to start going to the gym.

Which products can't you live without?
Ooh - for skincare I use a range of Dermalogica stuff. I can't live without Elizabeth Arden 8-hour cream and my Yves Saint Laurent Mascara, either.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years time?
I'd like to be settled down with a family and still recording, but not as full-on as I'm doing now.

Jennifer's new single Baby I Don't Care is out now. Click here to watch the video.