Shape I'm In: Nuala Carey, weather presenter

RTÉ weather presenter Nuala Carey has endured years of puns about her career, but she is more than happy to join in the fun.

“There’s plenty of variety in my job. It could be overcast, but never dull,” she says. “I don’t mind talking about the weather — Irish people are obsessed with it.”

Aged 35, the Dubliner has gone public on radio and TV about being single and has gamely reported on the dating scene. “It was all very tongue-in-cheek. It was done as an experiment,” she says.

She is still “dating away,” but says finding a partner is not a priority. “I’m a very independent person and like to be in control. It would have to be someone very special.”

* Nuala Carey is an ambassador for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland’s One in 1,000 appeal. The fundraiser has set as a target the recruitment of 1,000 women to take part in the Flora Women’s Mini Marathon on Monday, June 2. For details see: www.cfireland.ie, or LoCall 1890 311 211.

What shape are you in?

I exercise almost every day of the week. When I’m working, I’ll either walk for a good hour or run for 30 minutes. And, on my days off, I go for a swim.

Have you any health concerns?

I love getting fresh air. If I don’t get out for two consecutive days because the weather is bad, I get a bad headache.

What are your healthiest eating habits?

I have a glass of warm water first thing every morning and I swear by vitamin C daily. I eat a lot of fruit — I have a kiwi every day — and veg. I try to eat very well, 80% to 85% of the time.

What’s your guiltiest pleasure?

I like Tatyo crisps. I know they are not good for you, so I could stretch one packet out over three days in a sandwich.

What would keep you awake at night?

If I have a particularly busy day the next day, or an early start. I’m a devil for trying to foresee the day ahead. It’s stupid. I’ve already lived the day and I haven’t got out the of bed.

How do you relax?

I exercise early in the day, so when I come home at 7pm I like to have my dinner and don’t feel guilty watching a few soaps on the telly.

Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?

Grace Kelly. I’d chat to her about Hollywood and her royal life; Kate Middleton, she very normal and a great role model; Monsignor Horan, who founded Knock Airport, we’re related; both my grannies, I really miss them; and my grandfathers, I never met them.

What’s your favourite smell?

Freshly cut grass.

What would you like to change about your appearance?

I’d love to be very tall — 5ft 9in or 5ft 10in. Successful women tend to be very tall. I’m 5ft 5in.

When is the last time you cried?

When I watched a Would You Believe special about the Swiss student, Manuela Riedo, who was murdered in Galway.

What trait do you least like in others?

Laziness — I just can’t abide it.

What trait do you least like in yourself?

I am very hard on myself. I suppose, I’m a perfectionist. But being a perfectionist can be silly, because nothing can ever be perfect.

Do you pray?

Not on a regular basis. But, like a lot of people, when things go wrong, I do look above and I say ‘please, if you could help me, do now’.

What would cheer up your day?

Good weather — it’s the last thing in the country that’s free.