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Jan Samson was 18 when she began work as a catwalk model, then based in Leeds. She took a lengthy break to have a family, then went back for more six years ago... this time aged 50!

Now living in Whixley, Jan's since done a number of TV commercials and even been to Borneo, so how has the work changed now she's older? Is the life of a model now approaching her 60's in North Yorkshire filled with wall-to-wall glamour and schmoozing with rock stars?

“I’ve played people’s mothers – usually teenagers, I’ve modelled abroad for holiday companies, done fashion shows…I’ve even posed as a very happy customer buying beds and settees for a furniture company.”

A shot from Jan's portfolio

It's certainly not all glamour and adoring glances, though. Jan says she's had some comedy moments in her time: "I did once get knocked off the catwalk after another model fell into me; the heel on her shoe broke. I ended up sitting on a lady's knee in the audience.

"On one occasion in the late 1960's (during a show which involved some very quick changes) my dresser zipped into my skin when fastening a rather close fitting pair of hot pants: very painful!!"

So how has the money changed since she first started out?

“Television work is reasonably well paid, as is photographic work,” says Jan.

When asked if the fashion industry is London-centric, Jan says she doesn’t think being based in North Yorkshire has done her too much harm: “There are probably more opportunities in London, so if your aim was to maximise on as much work as possible, maybe you’d want to be there, but then being there means more competition as well.”

Jan's agent agrees.

"We get a lot of enquiries for older models," says Emma Morant, head booker at DK Models in Sheffield. "Our client database tends to be for a family commercial based market covering all aspects and ages of life and that's reflected in who they book. For example, we recently did a photo shoot for the NHS.

"I don't believe that this is a recent thing, either. We've been here for 10 years and have always represented and supplied older and plus size models. With the fashion industry and size zero models hogging the exposure in magazines and so on, plus size and older models can be overshadowed, which is a shame because this industry is very exciting."

Jan has done both TV and photo campaigns

Jan says she’d advise anyone interested in a modelling career not to be put off if they’re worried their age is a factor: “Visit a number of good agencies and listen to what they have to say” she suggests, “and you always need some good professional photographs done.”

Emma Morant agrees: "Never part with any money up front. Once a model has been taken on by a reputable agency, the agent will put them in contact with a good photographer whose prices are reasonable to help them start their portfolio. I suggest sending a few snapshots to an agency to see if they are interested in representing you first of all.

"One agency may say no, another agency may be looking for what the model can offer so never give up after the first hurdle.  This job can involve long hours, travelling away from home but the benefits are there to be had and enjoyed!"

Finally, ladies; the bit you've all been waiting for... come on, Jan. Tell us about your beauty regime. What's your secret?

"Eating healthily. Always starting the day with a glass of lukewarm water with lemon. Cleansing my skin thoroughly each night and nourishing my face, eye area and neck with moisturiser religiously. Most importantly, always remember to smile. It makes your eyes sparkle!"