A renowned British entertainer and writer, she initially pursued a career as a drama lecturer and journalist for BBC Radio London, before being encouraged to explore her comedic talents.
She gained recognition through her captivating one-woman cabaret shows at the Edinburgh Fringe and her 1995 Karen Carpenter tribute act, subsequently transitioning to mainstream acting and co-founding the Red Rag Women's Theatre Company.
During her formative years, she identified as a lesbian, but her life took an unexpected turn when she met Richard Hannant, a talented actor and stunt performer, who was also the fire officer at the Arts Theatre where she was performing.
Their chance encounter blossomed into a romantic relationship, and just eleven months later, she became pregnant with their first child, a daughter named Saoirse. The loving couple went on to welcome naturally conceived triplets in 2005 and exchanged vows in 2008, solidifying their lifelong commitment to one another.