5 MINUTES WITH...

Dame Darcey Bussell, 51, the former Strictly Come Dancing judge and pro-ballerina who’s swapping her famous pointe shoes for a walking tour of Scotland…

Everywhere you visit looks spectacular… There was so much scenery to capture, not all of which could be put on film. What you can’t always relay on screen is that wonderful feeling you get from being outdoors and exposed to the raw elements. It gives you clarity and puts you in touch with all your senses.

Is this your first travelogue?

It’s something I’ve always wanted to do but never had time for. In this, I explore four islands, along with their history and the wonderful characters who live there. My grandfather holidayed in Bute as a child in the 1920s. It was a very special place to him Was there a stand-out place you visited?

There were many, but I’d probably choose my experience with the highland cattle in the Outer Hebrides as a favourite. They were spectacular [Darcey joins a family moving the animals to their winter pasture across the sand]. I loved meeting the border collie sheepdogs at a farm in Bute as well. How have the last few months been for you?

To be honest, having a bit of quiet time with my family [Darcey has two teenage daughters with husband Angus] has been a bit of a sanctuary. We just made sure we kept ourselves active and got outdoors every day. I’m hoping we can get over to Scotland when it’s safe to travel again – I’ve already planned several trips in my mind!

What’s the first thing you’ll do when we’re out of lockdown?

Go to my local pub! And then to the theatre, and, of course, a ballet – though perhaps not in that order…

And what are you up to next?

I’m always working on my dance-fitness programme for schools (DDMIX), and this year we’re celebrating the 100year anniversary of the Royal Academy of Dance. I also hope to be back coaching ballet as soon as possible.