Former Coronation Street star Helen Flanagan has urged people to "leave the sexist mum shaming behind” after she received messages calling her a ‘bad mum'.

The actress from Bolton who attended Westholme School, took to social media as part of an ad campaign, and hit back at trolls who have mum shamed her.

Speaking to her 1M Instagram followers, Helen said she is ‘happier now than ever’ and this year she has been all about ‘reconnecting’ and finding herself again.

 

She said: “Here’s a question... Why is mum shaming a thing but dad shaming isn’t?

“I’ve always been and will always be such a good mum.

“It’s the most important job I’ve ever done! But I’m also a woman, and it’s been a tumultuous year and honestly, I’m just learning to look after myself and have fun along the way.

“My @annsummers lingerie always makes me feel my best self! @annsummers lingerie always makes me feel confident and sexy.

“This year has been the year I’ve been reconnecting and finding myself again and honestly it is the best I’ve ever felt.

“But each time I post I get flooded with messages calling me a bad mum or saying mums shouldn’t look or dress or behave like this.

“But why? Why do we have this old-fashioned idea of how mums should look and dress and behave?

“Honestly, I’m happier now than ever and guess what? That makes me a better mum too.

“I’ve always been a girl who supports other girls and to any mums who follow me going through a hard time or finding themselves again - I just wanna say I support you! Let’s leave the sexist mum shaming behind.”

Former on-screen sister, Brooke Le Vincent, commented: “The best mummy, don’t ever forget it.”

Whilst Christine McGuinness, ex-partner of Bolton’s Paddy McGuinness, also commented: “Rule number 1… Do not explain yourself to anyone!

“You are strong, beautiful, and talented and you are an incredible mother. You don’t need permission from anyone to be the fabulous woman you are.”

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