Ex-EastEnder Natalie 'proud' to be size zero

Actress Natalie Cassidy has admitted that she's proud to be a size zero.

The former EastEnders star - who played Albert Square's frumpy Sonia Jackson - has apparently lost two-and-a-half stone in just three months, falling from a size 16 to a size eight, but is delighted to have a pair of size zero jeans.

Natalie boasted to Now magazine: "I can fit into size zero jeans! I can't believe it. I have a pair of Gap jeans that are a UK size four, which is a US size zero.

"Don't get me wrong - I've still got my curves and I love the 50s hourglass shape. But I was a generous size 16 when I started and now I can easily fit into a pair of Kate Moss for Topshop skinny jeans."

The 24-year-old doesn't think her rapid weight loss is setting a bad example to young girls, and is taking part in a TV documentary about teenage slimming.

She said: "I wouldn't be doing the programme if I hadn't lost weight. It's amazing how many doors it's opened for me. I'm so proud that they thought I'd be a good role model.

"It's a subject that's close to my heart. I can't believe the fad diets people try - they just don't work. You have to lose weight sensibly, the way I did. It's the only option."