Winehouse returns home to England

LONDON, July 14 (UPI) -- Troubled recording artist Amy Winehouse is back home in England after an extended holiday in St. Lucia, her friends told People.com.

The 25-year-old recording artist, whose promising career has lately been eclipsed by her addiction to drugs and various legal battles, spent much of the past year relaxing on the Caribbean island.

"She is good. She has been looking after herself," a friend told the magazine's Web site, referring to Winehouse's healthy new look, including an improved complexion and fuller figure. "She did a lot of exercise and she has been eating better. Look at her -- she is not what she was."

Those close to Winehouse also said reports the singer frequently partied and got drunk while staying on the island are exaggerated.

"She is Amy Winehouse and has a drink. But she has improved considerably," an insider said. "She has had to cope with some huge problems, including her marriage, of course."

Winehouse is estranged from her husband Blake Fielder-Civil, who began divorce proceedings this year after being released from jail where he served time for assault.