Just like us
Presenter Winifred Robinson on learning to love doing laundry, her bargain brogues and taking pleasure in simple things
Winifred lives in Warrington with her husband, Roger Wilkes. They have a 23-year-old son.
How would you describe your home? It’s a Victorian semi, built in the 1890s of red brick with white rendering and that mock-Tudor wood panelling that the Victorians really liked. Around here, they call the style ‘Cheshire black and white’.
How tidy is it? Not very. My husband and I are both journalists, so there are lots of newspapers and magazines – I’ve subscribed to GH since I was in my 20s. We tidy up before we have visitors.
What are your kitchen cupboard must-haves? Chickpeas, tinned tomatoes and curry paste.
What do you always have in your fridge? My husband does the food shopping and I’m the cook. It may be a hunter-gatherer thing, but he keeps it well stocked. We always have milk, butter, eggs and cheese.
What is your signature dish? I make a good fish pie with a creamy sauce and spinach. It freezes really well.
What food can’t you live without? Curry. I first tasted authentic curry in my 20s when I went to live in Birmingham. Madhur Jaffrey’s cookery books taught me how to make them at home.
Who are your dream dinner party guests? People who are good listeners, as well as good talkers, and who make me laugh.
What is your best time-saving tip? Frozen chopped onion, garlic and ginger. It may not be as good as fresh, but it’s good enough when you don’t have time.
Are you a saver or a spender? Until the last few years, I would have said spender. Perhaps it’s a time-of-life thing, or a shift away from over-consumption, but I don’t need anything much these days. I enjoy the worn feel of familiar things.
What is the best bargain you’ve ever found? A pair of brand-new Max Mara brogues on eBay. I got them for £40.
What is your biggest extravagance? I have a one-toone Pilates session every week. I also have a counsellor
