Zara Lena Jackson, 25, from Longton in Preston, has appeared on the hit MTV show Ex On The Beach.

The self-employed dress maker decided to apply for an unnamed dating show, unaware that she was actually applying for Ex On The Beach.

The programme involves a group of single girls and boys who are enjoying a summer holiday abroad, until their exes turn up and cause problems.

Related: Preston singer Hayley Eccles on her journey with The Voice

Zara Lena described her surreal experience, saying:”I decided to sign up for a dating show because I was bored and had nothing to lose.

“I’m at a place where I am content with everything in life, with my career and house, and I thought I’m single so why not?

“I was completely oblivious that it was Ex On The Beach, but I was excited because I wasn’t sure what was going to happen.”

Zara Lena left the show in series 6 episode 7 as she discovered how intense the programme became.

She continued:”However it was a surreal experience, especially because it was aired 4 months after we had filmed and so I had had lived the experience and yet couldn’t tell anybody.

“It is strange getting all the reaction now.

“I found that the show became very intense very quickly, and I don’t like failing challenges so the fact that I left speaks for itself.

“I can’t rule out that I might appear again if the opportunity arises as I feel like I have a lot more to offer!”

You can follow Zara Lena on her Instagram account or visit her clothing line website.

Have you watched Ex On The Beach Before? Have you visited Longton recently? Let us know in the comments below