She may no longer be squeezing into Edie Britt's revealing outfits but Nicollette Sheridan remains as fit and fabulous as ever at 45.

The former Desperate Housewives star - who was killed off in an episode of the TV show aired in April - flaunted her stunning figure in a tiny two-piece during a day at the beach with boyfriend Steve Pate.

When asked about the secret behind her age-defying body, Nicollette has credited her dog with keeping her active.

"My dog is my trainer," she told People. "He insists we run four to seven times a week. Whatever he wants, he gets."

That certainly seemed to be the case on Sunday when, rather than just soak up the sun from the comfort of a lounger, the actress splashed around in the surf and played ball with her pooch.