Former Loose Women host, Carol McGiffin, known for her controversial opinions and no-nonsense attitude has decided to open up about her struggle with breast cancer.

Having initially decided to keep her diagnosis and treatment a secret, the 54-year-old star realised she found pretending and hiding the condition exhausting.

Speaking to The Sunday People, the Celebrity Big Brother contestant revealed that she discovered a lump while on holiday and was diagnosed with cancer last April.

Chatting candidly about the diagnosis, the outspoken star said: "I thought, 'So what if I've got breast cancer? Thousands of women get it every year. I'll get through this."

Determined to avoid the pity party, the good-humoured host said: "I kept it a secret because I didn't want anyone feeling sorry for me."

Carol has undergone treatment for the disease, battling on through radiation, chemotherapy as well as a mastectomy.

The star decided to shave her head when she began losing her hair and now sports a wig.

Positive and upbeat, the former wife of TV and radio star Chris Evans, said: "I feel it is over now and I've got I through it. I just want to be able to go out without my hat on and for people not to be bothered. I just want life to get back to normal."

Wishing Carol all the best. We think she's incredible!