How do you unwind at the weekend?
I don't find it hard to unwind. My children Samuel (13) and Rosa (11) are very into sport. My son plays rugby and football and has always had a ball at his feet. Rosa plays football so my husband Alistair and I have to split up when we go and watch them play on Saturday – we can't be in two places at once. We always have a nice brunch with soda bread, bacon, sausage and a fried egg. Classical music is relaxing and I listen to Classic FM in the car.
What do you recall most about weekends growing up?
I remember getting up early at 7.30am, even on Saturday. I grew up in Jordanstown. My parents, Sam and Margaret, still live in the same family home they've been in for 38 years. I had a pony named Ziggy. I have an older sister, Kelly, to whom I am very close, so we'd hang out. It was a very happy childhood as Mum and Dad were amazing parents. Now my mother cares for dad as he has had Parkison's. It's challenging, but we are very blessed that he's still at home. We have great carers who come in every day and Parkinson's UK and the NHS have been brilliant, very supportive.
Friday night or Saturday night?
I love Friday night when we can all chill out. We watch telly, have something nice to eat and I don't have to supervise homework. Saturday night is lovely too, catching up with friends as we used to do.
Do you have a must-listen weekend radio show?
When I'm cooking, and I often like to take my time and make something nice on Saturday night, I listen to radio. Lisa Tarbuck on Radio 2 is perfect. It's just like she's there with you, having a glass of wine and a giggle.
Must-watch TV show/box set?
There are so many. Saturday Night Takeaway is the perfect family show. I remember The Price is Right and Ted Rodgers' 3-2-1 which were brilliant Saturday night shows, geared to all age groups, which is what I like. Something light, a bit of escapism, is what you want.
Favourite eatery – or is it a takeaway?
I'd always wanted to go to Six at Nico but had never managed to get through the door. But it was my birthday in June and we discovered they were doing Home by Nico. So my husband picked up their Italian menu and it was beautiful.
Is Sunday still special?
Yes, I think there's definitely a different feel to a Sunday. I haven't been able to go to my church, St Patrick's in Jordanstown, but there are services online. Actually, Songs of Praise is a good substitute and we hear from so many people that it's a comfort to them, never more so than this year.
How do you feel on Sunday night about Monday morning?
I don't get that 'Oh, it's Monday tomorrow.' feeling I sometimes used to get when I worked full-time. I love a Sunday night with Call the Midwife.
:: Songs of Praise airs on BBC One, Sundays, at 2pm.
