I've never been fitter in 20 years

Rosemary Conley, 54, Britain's most successful diet and fitness guru, has credited HRT for making her feel happy and healthy.

She said: "I feel no more than 23, both physically and mentally and, thanks to HRT, I'm fitter than I have been for 20 years. When I went to the doctor just over 12 months ago, I was lethargic, tired, uninspired and lacking in energy and spark. Now I wear an Estroderm 50 patch near my appendix scar and feel great. It's given me all the energy I need.

"Obviously the natural ageing process continues. The bonus, though, is this year I have lost threequarters of a stone without even trying. I simply found myself wanting less food, so I ate smaller portions. I weigh myself once every three months and I am a size eight and 7st 8lb. I am pleased to say I haven't lost any height, which is a great testament to regular exercise."

In an interview last year, Ms Conley added: "All things being equal, I want to live to 100."