Ali Bastian 'to return to acting roots'

Ali Bastian is to return to her acting roots following her 'Strictly Come Dancing' success.

The former 'Hollyoaks' and 'The Bill' actress - who finished in third place alongside then-boyfriend Brian Fortuna on the BBC One show in 2009 - explained while she has "had a ball" learning a new skill, she is keen to go back to acting.

She said: "I am looking forward to getting back to my roots and what I love best, but I've had a ball dancing. It was amazing how everything took off for me after 'Strictly'. The show was a wonderful experience in itself, but then I went on to do a ballroom and Latin dance show in the West End.

"That's the wonderful thing about doing shows like Strictly - it really does give you another string to your bow."

The 28-year-old star - who played timid teacher Becca Dean in 'Hollyoaks' for six years - also admitted the Channel 4 soap was a "real breakthrough" for her acting career.

Ali added to the Bristol Evening Post newspaper: "'Hollyoaks' was a real breakthrough for me. I was really lucky because I had some really big, meaty storylines, which is what every actor wants.

"I got the job when I was 19, moved up to Liverpool, and had a wonderful and informative time. It was a bit like my university being up there. I learnt an awful lot and cut my acting teeth there, and I also made some really great friends who I am still in touch with now."