‘I'd date anyone FROM THE AGE OF 18'

Ulrika Jonsson talks about dating younger men and why she wants lots of fun now she’s approaching 55

- SOFIA ZAGZOULE

She’s not afraid to court controversy. Most recently, she raised eyebrows after posting images of herself with a deep tan, later saying, ‘I will not apologise to the tanning police… and sunbathe with reckless abandon.’ She has posted pictures of herself naked and rarely disappoints with her outspoken presence on social media. After hooking up with her now-ex, Hunter the Gladiator [James Crossley] in 1996, Ulrika’s love life has constantly hit the headlines and she can name former footballer-turnedpundit Stan Collymore, former England football manager Sven-Göran Eriksson and even Prince Edward as exes. Now, after three failed marriages and four kids, Ulrika, 54, is back in the dating game and more determined than ever to have fun again.

Hi, Ulrika! We hear you’ve been on the exclusive celeb [and invite-only] dating app Raya…

Dating another celebrity is my idea of hell. But yes, I have been using dating apps a while. I just want to meet normal people. You don’t want too many egos. I don’t think that’s a good thing.

How do you find the apps?

The way people connect nowadays is a foreign concept. It makes it easier to let someone down. You don’t have to look anyone in the eye – you can [just] send a message. There’s a whole different code of conduct online and that’s been a steep learning curve. Understanding you can’t count on people.

You suffered the humiliation of being stood up by some dates?

Two or three times. I was shocked. I think it was definitely younger guys – maybe they lose their bottle. I’m quite old-fashioned and believe in decent manners.

Have you found it difficult dating online?