Lucy Mecklenburgh won't return to TOWIE

Lucy Mecklenburgh has ”no plans” to return to ‘The Only Way is Essex’.

The 23-year-old beauty – who is dating Olympic gymnast Louis Smith – quit the show last year and though she misses socialising with her castmates, she is happy to be able to live her life under less scrutiny.

She said: ”There are parts I miss, like everyone going out for dinner and being sociable – but it’s a big invasion of privacy and I have no plans to go back.”

Because many of her friends are still on the show, the fitness fanatic doesn’t get to see them very often.

She said: ”Everyone is so busy, especially when they’re filming. Sam Faiers came to see me on ‘Tumble’ and me and Lydia Bright speak to each other a lot, although it’s hard to find time to meet up.”

While she is happier away from the show, Lucy – who has relaunched herself as a diet and fitness guru – insists it is not an option for her to retreat entirely out of the public eye.

Asked if she has thought about leaving the spotlight, she told OK! magazine: ”No. There’s less of my life in the public eye now and I’m happier. Also, I don’t think it’s an option for me now.

”There are lots of positives though – I’ve got 75,000 girls getting help and fitness advice from using my website.”