Anna Passey has joked she should've dated a plumber because her long-distance relationship with former 'Hollyoaks' co-star Nick Rhys is "not always easy".

Anna Passey

Anna Passey

The 33-year-old actress - who plays Sienna Blake in the Channel 4 soap - has dated the actor, who played Lockie Campbell in the programme, for five years, but admits it can be tough when he is working in the US and she is filming the show in Liverpool.

She said: "We've been together getting on for five years now. Nick's in Los Angeles at the moment so it's rather a long-distance relationship. It's not always easy with him on the other side of the world but that's often what you get when you date another actor.

"Maybe I should have chosen a plumber or something - only joking!

"I've just been out to California to see him actually - and to catch up with other friends who live there. I had a great time."

When Anna isn't visiting Nick or filming her hard-hitting scenes she likes to calm down after an emotional day on set by boxing and pumping iron.

She said: "Boxing is my latest obsession and I've been training at a boxing gym for about a year. I also enjoy doing weights, horse riding and yoga.

"I just love yoga and it's become very important to me. It's a great way to unwind after a long day's filming."

Anna has starred in 'Hollyoaks' since 2012, but didn't expect to last more than a year on the soap.

She added to Soaplife magazine: "I was only ever meant to be in the show for a year but then I was offered another contract.

"I never expected to still be here several years later but they always seem to come up with gripping storylines for my character. I love Sienna and can't imagine putting her to bed yet."