'I feel liberated. This is all about me now

Rachel Lugo opens up about break-ups, body image and learning to embrace being single

- EVE MACDONALD

The Real Housewives Of Cheshire’s Rachel Lugo believes she has now “risen from the ashes” after an incredibly emotional period of her life.

In 2019, she separated from John Lugo, her husband of 24 years, when it came to light that he had cheated. Fans were delighted when the 48-year-old mum of five found happiness again with 52-year-old Nick Smith, who she met via a dating app and who appeared on the reality show alongside her.

But it wasn’t to be. The couple recently split, with Rachel citing the reason as she “works a lot – and Nick doesn’t work” on her Instagram account.

Embracing her new single life and what she calls her “selfish years”, Rachel exclusively tells new that she realises she needs to stop chasing relationships and find happiness on her own, but admits there may be a little work to do.

“I now have this feeling of freedom, but I’ll also admit my head is still a little all over the place,” she explains.

“I don’t think I took enough time to myself after such a long marriage [to John]. My divorce came through in November – I can’t really talk about it, though – and it was such a long time coming that I now feel free and liberated.

“I no longer have to explain myself to lawyers, partners… anyone.”

However, while she feels “liberated now”, getting back on the dating scene wasn’t an easy decision.

Reflecting on the emotional period of her marriage ending, the reality star admits she worried that no one would want to date her.