BAFTA winner Kate Winslet: I was told to settle for the fat girl roles

Kate Winslet used her winner’s speech at the BAFTAs to encourage aspiring actors to not listen to criticism about their appearance.

Winslet, 40, was presented with the Best Supporting Actress gong for her role in Steve Jobs at Sunday night’s ceremony.

Speaking to reporters she said: "When I was younger, when I was only 14, I was told by a drama teacher that I might do OK if I was happy to settle for the fat girl parts.”

Holding up her award she added: “Look at me now."

The actress continued: "And so what I feel like saying in those moments, to any young woman who has ever been put down by a teacher or a friend or even a parent, just don't listen to any of it because that’s what I did. I didn’t listen and I kept on going and I overcame all of my fears and I got over a lot of insecurity.

"Keep believing in yourself. That's what I felt like I really had to dig deep and do.”

She finished: "I would dedicate [this award] to all those young women who doubt themselves. Because you shouldn't be doubting. You should be just going for it."

The actress was among a host of big winners including Leonardo DiCaprio who was awarded the Best Actor gong for his portrayal of fur trapper Hugh Glass in The Revenant. The film scooped five awards including Best Director for Alejandro and the coveted Best Film.