I recently went to Iceland to shoot the Scottish Widows commercial (aired in October 2006). I was able to take a friend with me so I invited my best friend and we had a brilliant time. We were there for a week and were able to spend a bit of time sight-seeing, so we went to see a geyser which is a pool of volcanic water and every couple of minutes there would be an eruption shooting water high up into the air. We also went to see the most amazing waterfall, it was so beautiful with a rainbow over the top.

Foodwise we were able to sample some of the delights of Iceland although I steered clear of the puffin, whale and horse they had to offer!

Filming was hard work and very strenuous, walking up a mountain in prada shoes is not easy. The crew were amazing and very friendly I really liked working with Sean de Sparengo the director because he had such vision and passion for the brand. We filmed at the bottom of a waterfall and I got very wet. I had to have thermal underwear and 3 hot water bottles to keep me warm but it was all good fun. I was sad to leave Iceland because I enjoyed myself so much - can't wait till the next one.

I have been the Scottish Widow for over a year now and have loved every minute of it. I remember the casting as clear as day, I thought I didn't have a chance as there were so many girls up for the part. But I remember thinking that it would be a dream opportunity as I had heard that the previous model Amanda Lamb was set up for life by getting the part.

She is such a famous icon that I have vivid memories as a child growing up of the beautiful woman in the black cloak.

I was lucky enough to get a call back so I paid extra attention to my appearance and wore a black dress, tights and heels, and took a taxi to the casting as I wanted to arrive fresh.

David Bailey was at the casting, which made me quite nervous at first but I soon became confident in the cloak and had a laugh and a joke with him. When I was told I got the part I remember I cried because it is the biggest job of my career and I am so grateful they put their faith in me to represent their company.