How big are you going on Christmas this year?
Big! We're much more home-orientated because we've been forced in our homes, and so we appreciate them more. For years, my husband, John [Deasy], and I used to go to exotic places. I loved going into the balmy waters of the Caribbean on Christmas morning. But it's a different dynamic when you have a seven-year-old child – you see the magic of Christmas through their eyes.
What decorations do you go for?
I love buying a decoration every year for the tree. I've got some from the Caribbean, Finland and New Zealand, and my sister got a Newbridge decoration for my son on his Christening day. John is a former TD, so he has amazing ones, like a White House decoration. As I hang them on the tree, I think about all the moments they mean.
Best and worst Christmas films?
It's the time of year when you indulge in laugh-out-loud films. I love Bad Santa, and Christmas cartoons too. I have a love/hate thing with Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory – that was all that was on in the 1970s, so I'm almost allergic to it now.
Best Christmas present?
The game Operation, and a doctor's kit. I bought my son a doctor's kit thinking he'd love it as much, but he was like, "What? I don't want to be a doctor."
What's on your wish list?
I know it sounds boring, but one of the best things to get is a voucher. I'm very practical about presents. For years, John gave me jewellery that I didn't like, and now I just tell him what I want.
Favourite part of the Christmas meal?
I adore Christmas cake. I love the icing, I love the marzipan. I'll be eating Christmas cake from the start of December.
What's the most irritating thing about Christmas?
There's so many ads for kids' toys, and it puts so much pressure on parents to buy them. I don't think it's good for kids to get a million presents – they won't appreciate them. Just get them one thing they want, and a few other treats.
What's on your Christmas jumper?
People sent me Christmas jumpers in the last few years and there's some funny ones, like one that says "All I want for Christmas is Prosecco".
