Dame Mary Berry makes thoughts clear on new Bake Off judge Nigella Lawson

The 66-year-old TV cook replaced Dame Prue Leith, who announced earlier this year that she was leaving after nearly a decade in the iconic tent.

Critics have praised Lawson for giving the Channel 4 series a “new lease of life”, while fans have applauded the chef for “bringing joy back to the screen”.

Paul Hollywood and Nigella Lawson in the Bake Off tent

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But what about inaugural judge Dame Mary, who was on the wholesome baking show from 2010 to 2016?

Speaking at Cheltenham Literature Festival, to promote her new book, the 91-year-old said that Lawson has brought “fresh life” and “glamour” to the series.

“I am delighted Nigella is there. She has got to keep control of a certain person. Paul [Hollywood] needs handling and he has this handshake, which keeps appearing.”

Dame Mary Berry heaped praise on Nigella Lawson

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She continued: “Nigella has brought some glamour to it, and she really likes tasting doesn’t she? And I know how she feels, I always took a proper mouthful because if you just take a little bit, the person whose food you are tasting, their auntie will say ‘well, she didn’t even taste it’. So I was aware of that.

“Nigella is a joy and I think she has brought new life and I think it will do really well. A touch of glamour.”

Lawson’s fellow judge Paul Hollywood has also expressed his admiration for the 66-year-old.

Speaking to Woman Magazine, the 60-year-old said: “Nigella has such a wonderful way with words; she's very good at explaining to people watching it what it tastes like. She was brilliant. Nigella fitted in beautifully; it was lovely working with her.”

Dame Prue Leith has also heaped praise on her successor

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And her predecessor, Dame Prue, also had nothing but the highest praise for Lawson.

During an appearance on This Morning in August, the 86-year-old said: “I didn’t have to give her any tips, but I did tell her to just enjoy it because she’s so good. She was quite nervous,” she said.

“She’s so well qualified and knows exactly what she’s doing, and the audience love her. I saw her and Paul last week, and they’re getting on well. She’s nice, I’m glad it’s her.”