TV gardener Charlie Dimmock – beloved for her down-to-earth charm and appearances on Ground Force and Garden Rescue – once revealed her simple checklist for finding a new boyfriend.
After skyrocketing to fame in the 1990s for her natural looks, wild red hair and bra-free confidence, Charlie captured the hearts of millions.
But when it comes to romance, she has much more grounded expectations.
Charlie Dimmock on what she looks for in a boyfriend
In an interview after splitting with her long-term partner John Mushet, Charlie – who will be on screens this weekend (October 5) for a new episode of Garden Rescue – shared her thoughts on a potential new partner.
“I like someone who is practical, relaxed and who makes me laugh,” Charlie said as she expressed her three essentials in a partner.
With a long and public career, the TV star learnt not to prioritise looks. “It doesn’t bother me if he isn’t good-looking. I’m always being asked to name someone I find sexy, but frankly, I really don’t know anyone.”
Charlie’s low-key attitude contributed to her everywoman appeal.
Despite being hailed as “horticultural Viagra” and “the sexiest woman in Britain”, Charlie was perplexed by her status as a sex symbol.
“It’s all a bit silly. None of my boyfriends has ever told me I was sexy or attractive. It hasn’t bothered me.”
Charlie and John Mushet
What did seem to bother her was the challenge of dating after her highly-publicised split from long-term partner John Mushet.
The couple were together for 13 years. However, they separated after Charlie had an affair with a crew member from Ground Force.
“I’ve discovered that the most difficult after-effect of the break-up is getting into another relationship,” Charlie previously admitted. “Where do I find someone? I wouldn’t go into a wine bar to look for a man, nor on a blind date.”
Even though her career skyrocketed after joining Ground Force, Charlie was still modest about her life off-screen.
“I don’t mind being on my own. I’m quite practical,” she said. The star revealed that she still lived in the same cottage in Romsey, Hampshire, where she shared a home with John. “I like staying where I’ve been known for a long time.”
Despite her fame, Charlie insisted she hasn’t changed much since her early days. And for the right guy, appearance is hardly a deal-breaker. As she put it herself: “I’d love to become a batty old dear.”
Watch Charlie on Garden Rescue on Saturday (October 5) at 4pm on BBC One.
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