'It's Pathetic To Complain About A Few Wrinkles!

TV presenter Tess Daly opens up about ageing and all the lessons life’s taught her

- Sara Nuwar

Tess Daly comes across as a woman in control. She’s at the top of her game, working with Claudia winkleman on Strictly Come Dancing and at 48, she’s feeling better than ever – exercising with a personal trainer. when it comes to her two girls, Phoebe, 12, and amber, seven, she’s a proud mum, who’s determined not to raise spoilt brats. The only time she is slightly coy is when quizzed about whether she would renew her marriage vows with Vernon Kay, her husband of 14 years, following some well-publicised marital difficulties. ‘who knows,’ she adds shyly.

‘I’m still learning lessons as I go through life. 

That’s one of the joys of getting older, you do learn more about yourself. I will be turning 50 in a few years but I haven’t started planning it yet. I’m organised but not that organised! I might do a huge bash or take the family off to a beautiful island in the Indian Ocean. Who knows, maybe I’ll do both! My parents always had strong morals and strong work ethic, which they instilled in me and which I’m teaching my children. I teach my children to think about smashing glass ceilings, rather than stepping into glass slippers. I want them to be strong women.’

‘I can’t imagine having another baby now. I’m happy with my little family as it stands. 

I’ve two gorgeous girls. I can’t go back to nappies and carrying a ruck-sack full of baby necessities! It’s nice to pass that stage. The girls can get themselves ready in the morning, they are more self-sufficient. I’m happy with my lot.’

‘We’ve never spoilt our children.