Not a lot of people know this, but I’m very good at… remembering things. When I’m on location I don’t have any prompts – no monitors, no autocue, nothing. I’ve got to remember where I am, who I’m speaking to and what I need to ask. Then, I get into the weather and I have to talk over moving graphics that I can’t see, so I need to have a mental image of what’s going on. It’s a lot.
My best friend is… Donald my cat. He’s the one “person” who knows everything about me, my happiness, my sadness, everything – and he never tells a soul.
The bravest thing I’ve ever done was… hang-gliding for The One Show. I had to wait all day for the clouds to clear, which meant I was getting more and more nervous. Finally, we were good to go. I was hanging on for dear life as we were climbing, with my arms wrapped around this lady who was an expert. Then, the towrope snapped. It was terrifying, but she was brilliant and glided us back down safely. I’m glad I managed it but I will never do that again.
My favourite TV show is… Line Of Duty. I can’t wait for the next series to come out. I love the plot because just when you think you’ve solved it, in come all these weaves and twists and you’re right back in the dark.
My perfect evening is… sitting in the garden with my other half and a bottle of wine, eating some delicious pasta. A bit of alfresco dining with a gorgeous sunset and some lovely ambience does it for me. We love planning what we’re going to do in the future and we always talk about what we’d do if we won £10 million on The Lottery.
My first kiss was… probably with a boy at school, but I honestly can’t remember. Obviously it wasn’t very remarkable.
The best thing my parents taught me was… to have good manners. My parents owned a hotel (which I wasn’t brought up in – despite what Wikipedia says) so we’d eat in the dining room with this plethora of cutlery. They taught us about things like that and also to be considerate and kind to other people, no matter what. They were also very strict on homework, so no slacking for us. It set me in good stead, so I’m grateful for it all.
My biggest regret is… not keeping a journal. I’ve had the most amazing experiences through my job. I got to fly with the Red Arrows, skydive with the Red Devils and meet the Queen at Sandringham, so I wish I’d written it all down.
I’d like to say sorry to… anybody I inadvertently hurt or offended because I never would have done it intentionally. I hate to think I’d done that to anyone because I’ve experienced it myself when you laugh something off but really it’s hurt you inside.
The one thing I’d change about myself is… I’d love to be more creative and practical. Dick and Angel Strawbridge are superb and I’d give anything to be able to make things from nothing the way they do. I’d love to walk into my house and think, “I’m going to make some curtains for that window,” but I wouldn’t have the first clue where to start.
The last time I cried was… when I got knocked off my bike at the beginning of April. I cried for days after that – it was so painful. I really hurt my leg, bum joint and my elbow and I’m still recovering from that.
The first record I ever got was… from my dad. I loved Beg, Steal Or Borrow by The New Seekers and my dad took me out to the shops and he got it for me. I was so young and I’ll never forget that because it was such a kind thing to do.
It’s not good for my image, but I like… cheap milk chocolate. I’m not into the deep dark stuff. I know I should be healthier, but I can’t help myself.
My greatest weakness is… my cat, Donald. He’s 20 years old and he rules the roost. If I’m late back from work I get a right telling off. He can do no wrong. He’ll sit outside his treats cupboard, look at me with his big green eyes and I simply can’t say no.
If I could pass any law I’d… make everyone wear helmets when cycling. I always do without fail – I don’t like wearing one, but I will never ride without it.
I drive… a soft-top Mercedes. I love having the wind in my hair.
The shop I can’t walk past is… any one with a sale on. I love a bargain.
The most expensive thing I’ve ever splashed out on is… a huge Louis Vuitton tote bag. It’s the most considered purchase I’ve ever made aside from my house. When I got it I felt like I’d won The Lottery.
My perfect Sunday is… breakfast in bed and lots of time to read the papers. Then I’d get up and go for a lovely long walk in the sunshine before sauntering into a pub for a Sunday roast. After that I’d come home and chill in the garden to while the evening away with an ice cold glass of sauvignon blanc.
My favourite place in Britain is… Edinburgh. It’s a beautiful city. I’ve also got loads of family and friends there and we’ve made tons of happy memories.
My last holiday was… at the beginning of the year before lockdown. I went to Las Vegas with a few friends, which was great fun. It wasn’t too hot or too cold, so we could sit out by the pool in the sunshine. We went to see lots of shows, ate delicious food and caught up with each other.
I’m currently reading… Coming Home by Fern Britton. I love the imagery in it and Fern’s got a real talent. I’m also in the process of writing a book and we actually share the same publisher.
Who would play you in a film? Scarlett Johansson. Even though I don’t look anything like her – she’s so pretty.
The best day of my life was… the first date I had with my partner. He’s funny and kind and we had the nicest time together – I knew immediately I wanted to be with him.
If I had half an hour left on Earth, I’d… have already said goodbye to my loved ones and I’d be getting back out into the garden with a glass of wine. I’d reflect and be thankful for the life I’ve led and the privileges I’ve had along the way.
BBC Breakfast celebrates its 20th birthday on October 2 and is on BBC1 daily from 6am.
