I'm at my best when I'm surrounded by friends and family. My favourite place would be a beach at sunset with my mates and boyfriend. My best friends are those I met at school because I can totally be myself with them.

Those closest to me would describe me as caring, generally quite happy and very shy. It's weird being an actress and shy - they don't go well together. But I try to be cheerful too.

One thing about my past I don't easily admit is that I had a perm. I was 13 and I looked like a lion. I'm still a bit embarrassed when I look at the photos. It wasn't my finest hour.

Apart from my family, the three things I'd want on a desert island are a photo album with lots of lovely pictures, a radio so I could listen to music and remember special moments, and a pen so I could try to send a message in a bottle.

One thing I'd like to do before I die is go to Africa. I've always had a bit of an obsession with the place. I haven't been outside of Europe, so it would be amazing to travel that far.

If I advertised myself on a dating site, it would read "Shy girl seeks funny man for good times." I'm not fussed about money or a nice car. As long as he makes me laugh, that's what's important.

The thing I like least about myself is my shyness. It's a bit of a burden. People can think I'm quite aloof and I'd rather they didn't. They think I'm trying to be serious, but I'm actually very timid.

The thing I value most is my friends and family. I don't need material things, but I can't be without them.

My fantasy dinner date would be Sean Penn. He's an amazing actor. We'd go to the beach for a picnic. I'd like to know what inspires him and gives him energy.

If I wasn't an actress I'd be a dressmaker. I like making clothes for myself in my spare time. It would be fun to do it for other people.

Answer the following

• I'm very careful and tend to take my time when making important decisions: Never
• Rules should be broken if they don't make sense: Always
• I often feel anxious or afraid in situations I can't control: Never
• I like my day to be well planned: Never
• I easily become excited about new opportunities: Always

See Montserrat in Ashes To Ashes, Mondays, 9pm, BBC1.

Monsterrat Lombard's picture that represents her

Draw a picture that best represents you

MONTSERRAT SAYS: "This is all about me laughing and being happy. The pointy teeth make me laugh as I think they're ridiculous. There are only a few stands of hair because I think my hair is like spinach!"

'MONTSERRAT Isn't at ease with herself'

JAMES' VERDICT: "Montserrat is hard to get to know really well, but she places value on relationships with friends and family, who find her warm-hearted and sensitive. Optimistic and good-humoured, she will generally handle stress well, but may be critical of herself and others when under pressure.

She likes her own space and feels frustrated when hemmed in by unnecessary rules, structure or bureaucracy. Montserrat values freedom and spontaneity and is equally tolerant of others' individuality. Her interest in people and travelling highlight her openness to new cultures.

The witch-like picture shows Montserrat isn't fully at ease with herself. The jagged teeth indicate self-consciousness, while the large eyes mean she's observant and vigilant about others and their intentions. The hat highlights her concrete nature, while the heavy pen strokes show her energy."

James is a specialist in psychometric testing.

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