Domestic bliss ...Nigella is the toast of Hollywood

DOMESTIC Goddess Nigella Lawson is The Great British Bake Off's new judge and she already has a worshipper - Paul Hollywood.

- BY NICOLA METHVEN

Co-judge Paul, 59, said cookery expert Nigella has unbelievable taste buds and knowledge, like her predecessors Mary Berry and Prue Leith. Nigella, 66, in her first chat since landing the role, is worried the amateurs might be better than her. She is already aiming to wear clothes with stretchy waistbands.They answer our questions...

Will you get on with Paul and the crew?

N: I’m looking forward to being part of the gang. Paul and I have been chatting nonstop, we came here together tonight and I have to say, we were told off in the corridor for talking about focaccia too naughtily — and that’s not a euphemism. (Paul blushes.)

Paul, what do you love most about the show after 17 years, why is it still so popular?

P: The tent with the bunting in the beautiful surroundings of a gorgeous stately home is appealing. People not from this country say, oh, it’s very British, isn’t it? The tent is like a big family. A lot of people have been with us now for 17 years. The tent is like going back to a friend of mine I’ve known for over a third of my life.

N: Er, 17 years is not over a third of your life!