Gemma Arterton grew up wanting to be a princess.

The 'Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time' actress admits she dreamed of being rescued by a hero, but thinks she lacked the grace and elegance to be truly regal.

She said: "I come from a simple background. My mum was a cleaner and my dad was a welder. But there was a time when I wanted to become a princess. I probably read too many romantic novels. I always wanted to be rescued by a prince. But I wouldn't have looked my best. When I was younger I always used to trip and unerringly land in the nearest mud puddle."

While the 24-year-old British star doesn't think she could cut it as a princess, she believes she has what it takes to be an action heroine - but admits she worries more about what women think of her physical side than men.

She added to Gala.de: "What makes a good action heroine? You have to keep up with the boys. In a fist fight I always have the upper hand. However, for me it's important to look feminine at the same time. I want the girls to think I'm cool."