Two things to look forward to this week.
The first is that bergamots have come back into season. One of my favourite fruits, their aromatic zest gives Earl Grey that air of distinction. On the Bake Off, I'd planned to use them in the Earl Grey storeys of my Japanese pagoda biscuit tower, but then the week before filming they went out of season. As the supermarket could only helpfully offer bergamot hand wash as an alternative, I settled for Earl Grey tea leaves in the mix. But now, they're back, bringing a Narnian anticipation of summer, like the scent of rose in Turkish Delight.
My second highlight is a trip to Birmingham for the BBC Good Food Show, where I'll be making my demo debut on the Bake Off stage. Delighted to have the opportunity, I'll be sharing a gluten-free, dairy-free bake... with a touch of the old hemp. Sad though that I am stepping into a slot that the lovely Christine couldn't make. Renowned for her generosity, I can't help feeling this is something nobody should have to give away. I am an uncomfortable understudy. Like my bergamot marmalade, it will be a bittersweet experience.