QUICKFIRE

Your food heaven? My special carrot cake. People try it and always say, ‘Can I have the recipe?’ and I say, ‘No.’ And hell? Oysters. The idea of something slimy in my throat sends shivers down my spine.

Favourite celebrity chef?

I have to say Tommy Banks because we are presenting The Big Family Cooking Showdown together. Before that, I’d seen him on television and read his book. The first time we met to talk about the show, we went for a drink afterwards and were chatting for hours. We both love cooking but we are not formally trained – he taught himself because his family bought The Black Swan at Oldstead.

Describe yourself in three words: Driven, loyal and fun. Your ideal weekend? It would start with a run or going to the gym. It would be a sunny day. I would try a new recipe, such as the strawberry galette I made when a friend came round last night. It gives me the feeling I’ve accomplished something. We’d do painting with the children, make smoothies together, or go to the park, or out cycling. Michael and I value family time at weekends.

Dream dinner party guests?

Huw Edwards, he’s such a laugh and obviously very intelligent so we’d get some good chat; Oprah – I interviewed her on The One Show; Alan Carr – he is so funny and went to school with Michael. They were the only boys in drama class. Also, Adele, the Obamas and Damian Lewis, because I love redheads.

What did you have for breakfast today?

Banana, raspberries, vanilla yogurt and maple syrup sprinkled with almonds and ginger. Favourite tipple? It needs to be sweet drink like Malibu and Coke. I love coconut!

Finish this sentence: ‘I am most happy when...’ dancing around the living room to music with my family, after having cleaned my house top to bottom.