ME... AND MY HOUSEKEEPING! Actor Gina Mckee spills the beans

Actor Gina Mckee on her love of chocolate, singing while vacuuming, how to nail the sales and the calming power of walking

Gina Mckee lives in East Sussex with her husband, Kez Cary.

How would you describe your home? A haven, even though it’s in a temporary state of flux, as it’s new.

How tidy is it? Normally pretty tidy, because I like to be organised. And most of the time I am! Cook for friends or eat out? These days, I’d rather go to a restaurant with friends as, that way, I can have a good old hassle-free catch-up. Who are your dream dinner party guests? Michelle Obama, Maya Angelou, Catherine the Great – her dinner parties were spectacular – and Greta Thunberg. What is your signature dish? The truth is, it’s been ages since I’ve cooked interesting dishes. I’m out of practice. I like to try new recipes, but I always enjoy simple, fresh, vegetarian food. An old favourite is roasted beetroot and baked feta cooked with lemon thyme, served with blood oranges and chickpeas in a rich shallot and fresh flat-leaf parsley and mint herb dressing. Full disclosure: this is one of my husband’s signature dishes, and it’s delicious! What are your kitchen cupboard must-haves? Olive oil, olives, garlic, chamomile and spearmint tea, my favourite muesli, chocolate, almond milk, sea salt, black pepper, chickpeas and tasty bread. What food could you not live without? Chocolate, hands down. I’m into good dark chocolate. Preferably a single-origin bean with an intense cocoa hit. I love the flavours of different beans. I’m currently hooked on a Dominican Republic one. What do you always have in your fridge? Chocolate… a picture is emerging. Oh, and my favourite lime pickle! It makes cheese on toast zing. What is your best time-saving tip? Don’t look in the mirror all day! What did your parents teach you? So many things. They were wonderful people. They trusted me and loved me, and that foundation has always helped me navigate my way.

What you’ve is ever the best found? bargain

I’ve they’re discovered great. Lots Uniqlo of bargains sales; for and stuff will wear. you actually need Are you a saver or a spender? Kind of both; being freelance, I’ve always lived with an eye to an uncertain future. Favourite household task? I like vacuuming. It reaps instant results, keeps the dust at bay (I’m a bit allergic to dust) and I can sing loudly without consequence! Are you a hoarder or a chucker? Recently, I’ve become a bit of a chucker. I’ve just had a huge sort-out and it feels really good. What is at the top of your to-do list? Right now, clearing my desk. I’ve been working away for a month and I have some catching up to do. I’m putting it off, but I know it will feel great when it’s done. What keeps you awake at

night? I find that the night before a first day on a new job or the evening before a first night of a show, I can be a bit restless and excited. Otherwise, not too much. I’m usually a good sleeper. What always lifts you out of a mood? Walking. It’s a complete tonic for me. Urban or countryside walks are equally valuable and enjoyable. They help me think. I get restless if I don’t walk regularly. Where is your happy place? I’m happiest when I’m relaxing with my husband.

 Gina stars in Catherine The Great, which airs on Sky Atlantic and NOW TV on 3 October