The Mirror has an article explaining how tough the audition for the part of Alex Drake was for Keeley Hawes. You can read the article here.

DI Alex Drake's a sight for sore eyes

Mark Jefferies 18/02/2008

She's had a kicking from the critics, with some suggesting it was an inside job for Keeley Hawes and she even didn't audition for Ashes To Ashes.

But I can reveal that not only did she try out for the part of DI Alex Drake, she also had to audition looking like a pirate.

Keeley said: "I had to go and read for the part like everyone else. I had to meet Phil (Glenister) to see if we would hate each other.

"But I went with a big patch on my eye after I was scratched in the cornea by my nine-month old son's nail. It wasn't my greatest moment.

"Then there was a wait - and it was quite a big build up with the scripts and meetings.

"By the time I was offered the part it was more, 'Thank God for that', rather than worrying about it."

And no-nonsense Keeley doesn't see herself as a sex symbol, despite wearing some pretty saucy outfits in Ashes.

She said: "It's just a label that people like to give you rather than something you think about yourself.

"I have three kids, so sex symbol status under my roof went out the window a while ago.

"It's flattering but I'd rather people concentrate on the show or Keeley's perm or something."

So there you have it, DI Drake puts the frizz in the Fuzz, and she's a pretty arresting sight.