At the tender age of 24 it's fair to say that reality TV star and model Ashleigh Coyle has seen and done more than most.
The Derry native shot to fame when she came runner up in series 15 of reality TV show Big Brother and has also appeared on other BBC series including, Beauty Queen and Single.
But what really makes the model tick? What's her favourite way to spend her downtime in NI? We put Ashleigh under the Be spotlight this week where she revealed why despite her dreams of being an actress that career just wasn't for her and why she loves a pint with her dinner!
What is your fondest memory of growing up in Northern Ireland?
I started my modelling career when I was young, it opened so many doors for me and introduced me to a lot of people who have helped me on my way, it speaks volumes for the people of Northern Ireland; helpful, kind and supportive and something I've great memories of.
Where is your favourite place in NI to escape from it all?
Without a doubt it is Galgorm Resort & Spa. The food, the service, the surroundings, every time I visit I have to remind myself I'm still in NI. It's the perfect getaway to escape all the hecticness of day-to-day life.
The best thing about Belfast is...
The live music! I have never been on a night out and been disappointed with the musician's playing, in any venue. The talent is amazing!
The best meal you've had in a Northern Ireland restaurant?
I actually think about the steak dinner I've had, several times, in The Old Docks in Derry, on a regular basis! But I'm a vegetarian now so I'll not be having it any time soon, but they've plenty of veggie options to make up for it.
If you could invite three people alive or dead to a dinner party who would they be and why?
I've been obsessed with Marilyn Monroe from my teenage years, so she is a definite, I've always been so intrigued by her life and would love to know the reality of certain elements opposed to what we are led to believe.
My second would be Stephen Fry, I have so many questions and know he's the perfect person that I'd want answers and opinions from, I'd like to learn something that will be hopefully of some value in my life. The third is hard, I'm narrowing down from a very long list, but I'm going to choose Kevin Bridges because someone needs to bring the laughs!
Is there any other career path you wanted to pursue when you were younger?
I always wanted to be an actress when I was little, but considering my level of patience is at zero, I don't think I have it in me to learn a script off by heart, hence why reality TV suited better!
If you had to choose (another) one, what reality TV programme would you appear on and why?
Without even hesitation, it would be Gogglebox. It's my favourite show!
Tell us something about yourself that not many people know
My go to drink when out for dinner is a pint of Rockshore.
Favourite place to go for a drink in Northern Ireland?
This isn't a fair question, there are so many to choose from! My go to is always between Revolution De Cuba & Broken Shaker...
How would you like to be remembered?
Honestly, I'd like people to remember me for being kind, thoughtful & understanding. Is that corny? I think your personality and how you treat others is so important, I think it's what should be remembered about everyone! Oh and that I LOVE animals!
