EastEnders' Cheryl Fergison left in tears as she's forced to use food bank for first time

Broke actress Cheryl Fergison has bravely spoken out about how the cost of living crisis has forced her to use a food bank for the first time in her life.

The former EastEnders star, who played Heather Trott in the BBC soap, said she was left in tears as she realised she had no other option but to seek help.

Fergison, 57, told The Mirror: "I felt so ashamed and embarrassed. I never thought I'd be in this position. I've always worked hard and I've always been proud to be independent. But the cost of living crisis has hit me hard."

The actress said that her energy bills had more than doubled in recent months, and she was struggling to afford food and other essentials.

"I'm not the only one who's struggling," she said. "There are so many people who are worse off than me. But it's still hard to admit that you need help."

Fergison said that she was grateful for the support she had received from the food bank, and she urged others who are struggling to seek help.

"There's no shame in asking for help," she said. "There are people out there who want to help you. Don't be afraid to reach out."

Fergison's story is a reminder of the devastating impact that the cost of living crisis is having on people across the UK.