Great British Bake Off judge Prue Leith has praised Paul Hollywood and his ‘secret sweet side’.
Prue says her co-star may be known for his frosty exterior but says he really is a big softie.
Speaking ahead of the new series, Prue told how Paul had supported and helped her throughout her first time on the show last year.
“He helped me find my feet and I have learned such a lot from him,” Prue said. “He is an absolute genius when he sums up the judging with few words. It’s straight to camera, no ‘Erms’ or ‘Ahhs’, he is succinct.
“Whereas I go round the houses with lots of words, so I have tried to pick up on his critique and absorb it. I am not as good as him, but I think I am getting there.”
Speaking to The Sun newspaper about the upcoming season, Prue added: “We are so settled into our roles. Paul and I have a really good relationship, I followed his lead but now it’s very even handed.
“He has been absolutely sweet and so professional to work with.”
Alongside Prue and Paul, new hosts Sandi Toksvig and Noel Fielding will also be back.
Noel said that after getting through their first season together things will hopefully be more relaxed this time.
He explained: “Last year we were under an enormous amount of pressure to not ruin this sacred show that everyone loved, so we weren’t as worried about the bakers, we were just trying to make sure we didn’t destroy our own careers.”
The Great British Bake off starts next Tuesday, August 28 at 8PM on Channel 4.
