Jump directly to the content
Exclusive
Queen mary approves

Mary Berry declares the new Great British Bake Off ‘brilliant’ and is full of praise for her replacement Prue Leith

Mary Berry

MARY Berry has declared the new series of the Great British Bake Off "brilliant".

The 82-year-old decided not to follow the hit baking show to its new home on Channel 4 from the BBC last year.

 Mary Berry is full of praise for the new version of the Great British Bake Off
4
Mary Berry is full of praise for the new version of the Great British Bake OffCredit: Rex Features

The new series returned last week with Prue Leith taking Mary's place by fellow judge Paul Hollywood's side.

While fans of the show struggled to adjust to the new set up, which also includes new presenters Noel Fielding and Sandi Toksvig, Mary was full of praise.

Speaking to The Sun Online at the TV Choice Awards at The Dorchester Hotel in London tonight, Mary said: "I have looked at it yes and I have to say it's a wonderful format.

"It's a wonderful creation that programme, and it's followed the same lines.

"It continues to be brilliant."

When asked if she misses being in the famous tent judging the amateur bakers creations, Mary said that while she had thoroughly enjoyed her time on the show, she was ready to hand over the baton to Prue, 77.

 Mary didn't follow the show to it's new home on Channel 4
4
Mary didn't follow the show to it's new home on Channel 4Credit: BBC
 Paul Hollywood now judges with Prue Leith
4
Paul Hollywood now judges with Prue LeithCredit: C4

She said: "I was with it seven years and I loved it but I've gone on to pastures new and Prue Leith - she knows her stuff - and she and Paul will continue to be brilliant judges.

"I have spoken to Prue, I wished her well and she said she's thoroughly enjoying it and who wouldn't? It's a wonderful job."

As for Mary, she hasn't been putting her feet up since leaving the Bake Off, and has been busy filming her new series.

She said: "I am doing The Secrets of Country Houses which will be out in October and that has been terrific fun!"

 An average of 6.5 million people tuned in to watch Bake Off's first episode on Channel 4
4
An average of 6.5 million people tuned in to watch Bake Off's first episode on Channel 4Credit: PA

Meanwhile Channel 4 declared the Bake Off a ratings success after its debut last week and it became their eighth most successful show of all time.

The first episode drew an audience of 6.78million at its peak as viewers tuned in on Tuesday to see which of the 12 contestants was crowned star baker and who was sent home.


Got a story? email [email protected] or call us direct on 02077824220.

We pay for videos too. Click here to upload yours.


Topics