Prue Leith admits career setback ‘lost her a lot of money’

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.

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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.

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“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.”