Justin Long loves Drew's feistiness

Justin Long says he is attracted to Drew Barrymore because she is feisty.

The actor - who has been involved in an on/off relationship with the actress for several years - likes women who are comfortable in their own skin and can give as good as they get, and insists Drew epitomises those qualities.

He said: "I like feistiness in a woman - someone who knows who they are. It comes very naturally to Drew! She's a contradiction: she can be tough, hang with the guys and throw punches, but then put on a dress and shoes and love 'Sex and the City'. A sense of humour goes a long way, too. It's a tall order."

Justin has also revealed he and Drew keep the romance alive in their unorthodox relationship by writing each other love letters when they are separated by work commitments.

The 32-year-old star doesn't enjoy long telephone calls and insists writing your feelings down on paper is a more intimate way to express your feelings.

He added: "I'm never in one place for more than seven months, so having a relationship means spending time apart. I hate the phone. If you're speaking too much it becomes mundane. Letters are so romantic. They require patience and are unique, thoughtful extensions of yourself. Drew is an amazing letter-writer."