Why she's so miserable: Despite being born into a wealthy family, Charlotte Vale has lived her whole life under the thumb of her domineering mother, who uses emotional blackmail and illness that we suspect is largely psychosomatic to keep her daughter close. Oh, and she continually derides her daughter's appearance and character, and suggests that she'll never find a man who loves her.

Why she's inspiring: A quick break at a health farm and a makeover later and Charlotte suddenly finds her backbone. And promptly sets off on a cruise where she falls in love with a married man. Now admittedly this may leave something to be desired (eligibility, say), but selflessly she sends him back to his loveless union and spends her time ensuring that his unhappy daughter cheers up instead. Cue inner harmony and a big 'up yours' to her nasty mum - you go girl!