Losing It author and Hollyoaks star Helen Lederer faces our Quick Questions

Helen Lederer reveals the work she put into her book Losing It, and whether she’s ever shoplifted!

You’re back in Hollyoaks. Do you like the idea of steady TV work?

I’ve never had a career plan. I do what I’m told and go where the work is.

You’ve just published your first novel. How difficult was it to let the first person read it?

Very difficult. I let my daughter see the first 10 pages and she thought it was fine. From her, that’s praise.

Did it take you long?

Ages! I abandoned two other books because it wasn’t working. Once I’d done that I wrote up to 10 hours a day. I think I’m a binge writer.

Are you an honest person?

Yes, I’ve been told I’m too honest.

Dawn French said you’re the funniest woman in Britain. Blessing or curse?

She actually said that I was the third funniest after her and Jennifer Saunders. We’ve all gone our separate ways since those days.

Do you have annoying habits?

I exaggerate a lot, and I tend to swear in front of young people.

When was the last time you lied and regretted it?

I told a friend I’d got a birthday present for someone when I hadn’t. They asked to see it, so I had to go and buy one to show them.

Have you ever shoplifted?

Yes, but only as a girl. My mum wondered why I had so many Sindy doll outfits. I told her I was sewing uniforms at Girl Guides and getting paid.

Are you good with money?

I’m hopeless and I never check bills. I wouldn’t know if I had been overcharged in a restaurant.

You have 24 hours left to live. How do you spend the time?

On my perfect last day I would attend a prize-giving ceremony for my book and modestly accept my literary prize. Then I’d leave the stage to a huge round of applause.

Losing It, by Helen Lederer is out in paperback now.