‘there’s nothing wrong with putting on a few pounds’

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

L orraine Kelly is a self-confessed Christmas

fanatic. The TV veteran’s birthday is at the end of November – just when things are beginning to get festive – and she usually uses this as her marker to start decorating. But not this year. ‘I normally put my decorations up after my birthday on 30 November, but this year I went in early in mid-November to get the full benefit,’ she tells Woman.

But while the breakfast telly host is a big fan of the festive season, one thing she won’t be doing is cooking Christmas dinner, as she tells us her cooking is ‘beyond bad’.

So just how does Lorraine spend the big day? Here, she reveals how she celebrates Christmas with her husband of 31 years, cameraman Steve, their daughter Rosie, 29, and, of course, their two much-loved dogs!

Merry Christmas, Lorraine! Where are you spending it this year?

We’ll be at home on Christmas Day and we’ll go out for a walk with Angus [Lorraine’s dog] and Ruby, who is Rosie’s miniature dachshund. But I’ll have to carry Ruby if it’s raining because she refuses to walk in the wet. The dogs get on well, but Ruby is definitely the boss.

What’s your favourite thing about Christmas?

Everything! We need some light and fun and silliness with everything that’s going on in the world. We always get a real tree and the decorations are ones I’ve had for years, including some my grandmother had on her tree. There’s never a fancy theme and nothing matches. I’ve got decorations Rosie made at school. I’ve got one that I always thought was a snowman – it turns out it’s an angel. It’s one of my most precious possessions. I always tell people not to stress about Christmas. The dinner is just a roast that’s got too big for its boots and has got a bit of an attitude.

Will you be cooking dinner?

God no, I’m the worst! Rosie and Steve will do everything. I’ll do the shopping and clear up, but I am beyond bad at cooking. Too much happens at one time. It’s like alchemy.

Are all bets off when it comes to eating and drinking at Christmas?

Yes, I think, ‘To hell with it, enjoy yourself.’ I don’t think there’s anything wrong with putting on a few pounds you c