Ex-Steps star Claire Richards piles on the pounds since ditching the dance routines

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For a while, she was one of the biggest stars in Britain - followed by fans desperate to catch a glimpse of her.

But last night the 30-year-old was almost unrecognisable as she stepped out to reveal a new fuller figure.

Curvy: Claire revealed a shapely new look at a party in the Savoy Theatre

Curvy: Claire's appearance was a stark contrast to her midriff-baring days in band Steps

But by the looks of things when the band split up, the 30-year-old abandoned the gruelling dance routines and learned to relax.

Attending a party in London's Savoy Theatre, the mum-of-one surprised onlookers with a curvier figure than that which she sported in the days of 5, 6, 7, 8 and One For Sorrow

In a sharp contrast to the tightly-fitted barely-there costumes she wore as a member of the group, Claire wore a billowing blue top and loose jeans.

While she was known for her midriff-baring style back in the nineties, it seemed Claire was keen to keep this bit of her body well-covered last night.

The former star is due to marry electrical engineer Reece Hill, 39, later this year.

She also announced plans earlier this year to reinvigorate her singing career.

Despite previous success, her popularity petered out after she and former bandmate Ian 'H' Watkins released material as a duo.

Since their album failed to set the charts alight in 2002, Claire has stayed out of the limelight.

In her prime: Claire takes centre stage with fellow bandmates (left to right) Lisa Scott-Lee, Ian 'H' Watkins, Lee Latchford-Evans and Faye Tozer in 1999