AN INSTAGRAM model who caused outrage by posing topless next to a memorial dedicated to WWI heroes has defended her actions and described herself as a "very sexual person".
Mum-of-two Lauren Henson, who has also had a top 20 single with the song "Solo Dancing", insisted the controversial image was "arty and not provocative or harmful."
The 31-year-old caused a furore after posting a topless picture clutching her boobs in front of a stone tablet bearing the names of fallen soldiers.
Her snap attracted more than 500 likes on Instagram, but she was criticised by some for disrespecting their legacy.
One wrote: "It just shows you have no respect for the people who gave their lives for this country.
"It's a shame you had to do it in front of a memorial to the people who died trying to protect this country. It shows zero class and respect."
Defending herself today, the singer said: "I’m a very sexual person and the image was a way of me expressing myself, fighting for my freedom as these war heroes fought for our freedom."
Speaking exclusively to the Sun Online from her Loughborough home she said: "My two grandpas fought in the war. I didn’t do it to be disrespectful and I wasn’t really aware it was a war memorial, I chose the spot because of the lighting.
"I didn’t mean it to offend anyone and I’m really sorry if I did. It's been blown out of all proportion.
"And it wasn’t a publicity stunt as some people are claiming. I was portraying myself as a woman, it’s just a human body and there’s a lot worse.
"I wasn’t pushing my boobs together or anything. It was a tasteful shot. The images are more arty and not provocative or harmful."
She added: "I'm pretty sure those boys that gave their lives for this country would enjoy a casual bit of side boob."
Lauren, who once sang for the Queen, later posted a second picture giving her reason for the risque pose, adding: "I think I look good in front of that wall."
Lauren, who is also known by her stage name Indiana, said the saucy snaps had helped boost her self-esteem after suffering with both bulimia and anorexia.
She said: "I’ve put on weight recently which is difficult to get used to but I am accepting it and proud of my body. All this criticism will make me ill again.
MOST READ IN NEWS
Lauren has a son, aged ten, and a five-year-old daughter.
She has recently released a new album called "Not Girlfriend Material."
We pay for your stories! Do you have a story for The Sun Online news team? Email us at tips@the-sun.co.uk or call 0207 782 4368. You can WhatsApp us on 07810 791 502. We pay for videos too. Click here to upload yours.
ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7tbTErKynZpOke7a3jqecsKtfbH56gpFwaWikkaq%2FprqMoZynq5%2Bjeqq60q2YoKqRonquu8Oeo2amkaCypXnWqKmlnF2srrN5zqecZqWVoryztcClZg%3D%3D