Sue: I still read those [psychology] books, I find it all very fascinating. I suppose we are all incredibly interested in what makes people abnormal; what makes them tick in an exaggerated form. It was explained to me that, in most cases, a dreadful childhood could affect the rest of someone’s life.
In her role on The Royle Family, Sue appeared with her on-screen husband from Brookside, Ricky Tomlinson.
Sue trained at the Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Arts in London.
Sue received BAFTA nominations for playing the character Barbara in The Royle Family and for her portrayal of a woman with motor neurone disease in Goodbye Cruel World.
Sue attended drama school despite her parent's contrary insistence - she's been strong-willed and confident since she was young.
Sue hates having to smoke when acting, although she did agree to smoke low-tar cigarettes when filming The Royale Family.
Sue smoked for over fifteen years from the age of sixteen but gave-up to protect her own and her baby's health during pregnancy in her mid-30s. Sue's father died of lung cancer, which still inspires Sue to say no to cigarettes.
Sue's choice of songs for Desert Island Discs included 'Fairytale of New York' by The Pogues, 'You'll Never Walk Alone' by Gerry and the Pacemakers and Wagner's classical piece, 'Tannhauser'.
Sue has also appeared in several films, the most famous being Brassed Off which also starred Ewan McGregor.
Sue first found fame whilst playing character Sheila Grant in Liverpuddlian soap Brookside.
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