In January, it was announced that the cook, who lives in Moreton-in-Marsh just over the Oxfordshire border, would bow out of the Channel 4 show after nine series and judging more than 400 challenges.

The 86-year-old has been a judge on the popular baking show alongside Paul Hollywood since 2017, when the series moved from the BBC to Channel 4, replacing Henley resident Dame Mary Berry.

READ MORE: Mary Berry finds ‘peace’ after ‘joy’ at retirement home

It was then announced on Monday, January 26, that Oxford University graduate Nigella Lawson will replace her as the judge on the Bake Off.

Now, Dame Prue has shared details about a costly career setback, while in conversation with Heat Magazine.

“People think I’ve had nothing but success because I’m very quick to tell them about the wins, but I don’t tell them about the failures,” she said.

READ MORE: Met Office issue warning as ‘historic’ heatwave hits the UK

“I once got a contract to do all the catering in Kensington Gardens and Hyde Park. I had this idea that people would love to have some smoked salmon and a glass of Chardonnay.

“At the time, the public were into the slimy burgers from a van and horrible coffee in plastic cups – they didn’t want decent food.

“I lost a lot of money. I have had failures, but I’m glad to see I’ve had more successes.”

Monday is forecast to be the hottest bank holiday on record with “historic” temperatures of 34°C predicted in Oxfordshire and south-east England.

It comes after the UK saw its hottest May day for at least 79 years on Sunday with a high of 32.3°C at Kew Gardens in south-west London.

Tom Morgan, a Met Office meteorologist, told the Press Association: “We rarely see temperatures above 35°C, even in the summer months, so to see temperatures getting close to 35°C in May is, as I say, pretty historic.”

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A “historic” heatwave is hitting the UK. (Image: Jonathan Brady / PA Wire)

The Met Office said heatwave conditions were met in eight parts of England on Sunday, including Benson in Oxfordshire.

Although Monday is set to be hot for many parts of England, north-west Scotland will be breezier and damper with thicker clouds.

Saturday was the first time this year that the UK had passed 30°C and Sunday saw the hottest recorded May temperature since 1947.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) issued its first amber health alert of 2026 on Friday, warning that there is a risk of a significant impact across health and social care services. The alert will remain in place until Wednesday.

The heat is considered to be dangerous for some vulnerable groups, including older adults, as their bodies struggle to regulate temperature.

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Age UK recommends staying inside during the hottest hours of the day, between 11am and 3pm, and having regular cold baths or showers.

Age UK charity director Caroline Abrahams said: “We can all help older people stay safe during periods of hot weather by checking in on older relatives, friends and neighbours to see if they need anything or are struggling with the heat.

“Offering to pick up shopping or medication, or even lending a fan, can make a real difference.”

The Met Office is also encouraging people to be WeatherReady this Bank Holiday weekend as temperatures are set to rise, with many expected to head outdoors and to the coast.

Ashley Jones, Head of Water Safety & Education at Royal Life Saving Society UK (RLSS UK), said: “As air temperatures rise, it’s important people don’t underestimate the risks associated with entering open water.

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” Even during a heatwave, water will remain dangerously cold, and cold water shock is a very real danger.

“Sudden immersion can cause an involuntary gasp, rapid breathing and panic, which can quickly lead to a loss of control in the water – even for strong swimmers.

“We’re urging the public to choose lifeguarded locations wherever possible, where safety measures and supervision are in place.

“If you are spending time near water with children, always supervise them closely, keep them within arm’s reach, and consider dressing them in brightly coloured swimwear to improve visibility.

“Open water environments are very different from controlled swimming areas. There may be hidden hazards beneath the surface, strong currents, and colder temperatures that can seriously affect your ability to swim.

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“It’s vital to respect your limits, avoid swimming alone, and talk to your family about water safety before you visit.

“If you see someone in trouble, don’t be tempted to enter the water to rescue them.

“Instead, call 999, encourage them to float on their back, and throw something that floats to assist them.

“Taking simple precautions can help prevent tragedies and ensure everyone stays safe while enjoying the water during warmer weather.”

Specsavers Thame is marking the arrival of the new TED by Ted Baker eyewear collection with two in-store raffles, one of which gives customers the chance to win a pair of designer frames.

Neil Perry, store director at Specsavers Thame, said: “We’re always looking for new and engaging ways to bring our community together while supporting important causes.

“The launch of the TED by Ted Baker range felt like the perfect opportunity to do something a little different, combining style with fundraising.

“The response so far has been fantastic – people are really enjoying getting involved, trying on the new frames and having a bit of fun with the photo booth.

“At the same time, we’re proud to be raising money for Cancer Research UK and making a small contribution to the incredible work they do.”

The first raffle offers the chance to win a cuddly ‘Teddy Baker’ toy, with a suggested donation of £1 a strip and all proceeds donated to Cancer Research UK.

The second raffle offers a chance to win a pair of TED by Ted Baker frames from the new collection, with single vision lenses included.

Entry is free or with an optional donation, and customers simply need to try on a pair of the new frames and have their photo taken with a Polaroid camera in a photo booth-style setup.

The raffles are open until the end of the day on May 31, with winners to be drawn shortly afterwards.

Specsavers Thame can be found at 109 High Street.