TV legend, 91, to open landmark event after retirement home ‘joy’

Dame Mary Berry was a judge on the Great British Bake Off during the BBC years between 2010 and 2016 before it left for Channel 4.

She has lived in Henley, in the south of Oxfordshire, with her husband Paul Hunnings, since 2019, having previously lived in London.

Now, the 91-year-old has been announced as opening the Nettlebed Art and Craft Show for its 72nd year.

Mary Berry arrives during Derby Day (Image: Matt Alexander for The Jockey Club / PA)

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The event includes the work of artists, both professional and amateur, who live within a 20-mile radius of the village.

Organiser Harriet Archer told the Henley Standard: “We are very excited to announce that we’ve actually got a special guest, Dame Mary Berry, coming to open the show on Saturday morning. She will be making an appearance around 11.15am to 11.30am.

“She’s going to say a few words and have a walk-round. It will be nice to have her there, and we hope this will attract lots of visitors to view the show as it opens.”

This announcement comes after Dame Mary was on hand to help open Audley Shiplake Meadows on Reading Road in Henley.

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The retirement village is home to 65 senior living apartments, duplex penthouses and cottages for people over the age of 65 years old.

At the retirement home unveiling, Dame Mary said: “It was such a joy to be part of Audley Shiplake Meadows’ official opening event.

“Having called this area home for the past seven years, I know the new homeowners will be very happy here.”

Dame Mary was also recently awarded the Bafta Fellowship for her exceptional contribution to television.

“What an honour for a cook to receive the Bafta Fellowship,” she said. “I couldn’t believe it – for just doing what I love.”