Angellica Bell talks about her parks, running and baking
Hear Angellica on Scala Radio on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am
Last updated 13th Jan 2022
We spoke to Angellica to find out about what she's been up to in lockdown, how's she managed with it and, importantly, who her inspiration is.
What can you see out of your nearest window?
From the window right now, I can see lots of trees and open spaces. I live close to a big park and appreciate it gives me that green space and freedom but at the same time I'm still in close proximity to the city. I like hustle and bustle and the eclectic mix you get in a cosmopolitan city like London - plus it's always been my home. I like to go out and have fun but need a balance.
I like the best of both worlds!
So, you have somewhere close by you can go running?
Yes, plus lots of cycling too! I only started getting into fitness when I began working on CBBC many years ago - it wasn't something I was heavily into growing up which is a shame as I had to train myself to get that discipline. I'm an early riser so always like to get up and get it done. Since lockdown started, I initiated Sunday Morning family runs where we all get out and run together. At first, I admit I was dragging everyone round but now it's part of our routine and bonding time. I only learnt to ride a bike about five years ago so love that I can get out knowing I stay on two wheels without falling over having conquered that fear. I love a challenge me!
How do you think the running has helped you over the past year?
Seriously it was a necessity for me - a time to reflect. It’s a way of putting things into perspective, and of course, you get all those endorphins making you feel positive. It just sets me up and I feel good about myself which then means I can tackle anything. It's been just as important this last year to keep myself mentally and physically in check especially not knowing when things would end.
I've never liked to sit around. There’s always something that can be done. There's always something to learn, always something to do - no time to waste. I like setting myself goals, so I have something to work towards and want to tick off all the things' I'd like to achieve while I can!
Where does that come from? Who instilled that in you?
I'm not sure there's one single experience but I guess everything that happens in your life shapes you into the person you develop and will always continue to develop to be. It never came from someone else growing up, but I have amazing friends now who are fantastic examples of resilience and hope! I have had young friends pass away sometimes leaving small children and those moments stay with you. You just never know what's going to happen in life, or what's around the corner. I just want to seize the moment and I don't want to have any regrets.
How has lockdown changed you?
I feel the fittest I’ve ever been in my life!
I've slowed down a bit. I was previously always busy. I remember before lockdown it felt like I was a hamster on one of those little wheels, on the go all the time. I'd loved to have been able to sit down a bit more. Lockdown has helped me understand the importance of giving myself time - reading books, calling friends, going for walks. Even though it's been tough missing my friends and needing a hug plus being hectic juggling everything from home schooling, cleaning, work, and exercise, I've enjoyed the aspect of just being at home with my family. Simple things like watching Saturday night television and dancing in the living room have been highlights!
We’ve seen from your many recipes on the Scala Radio website that you’re a big baking fan. Who inspired you to bake? And how do you come to make everything look so perfect when you bake?
That was my grandma. She was a cook in the Caribbean and when she came over here to the UK she continued to cook here. When my parents split up, we lived with her and I just spent all my time with her. She was a grafter. But I've always like food and processes so like creating things. I've baked for people loads during the last year as it keeps me occupied and know it's being eaten!
I think the attention to detail came because I just like things to look good. I’m not ridiculous about it, of course, but I just like things to look like edible. Celebrity MasterChef really raised my game in terms of presentation. When I did that competition, I started thinking of ways to change things so that each dish looked aesthetically pleasing. So that you know, during the judging John and Gregg would be like, “Yeah!” even before the judges had tasted it!
When is Angellica Bell on Scala Radio?
Listen to Angellica Bell on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am on Scala Radio