Ann Widdecombe

These days, the former MP and recent star attraction of Strictly Come Dancing, Ann Widdecombe, 63, prefers to spend her time writing novels and walking out on the moors near her home in Devon.

The best thing my parents ever taught me is…

My Christian faith, which is still very important to me today.

My teen idol was…

Singer Cliff Richard. He seemed very handsome and had a lovely voice. Or maybe it was the swirling hips? I still enjoy his music today.

I was star struck when…

I met Pope John Paul II a few years ago. He was very charismatic and I was immediately in awe of his holiness. He was a warm, lovely man with time for everyone, and he almost left me speechless. I will never forget that meeting.

The biggest risk I have ever taken in my life was…

Without question taking part in Strictly as I can’t dance. I wondered how long I would last in the show and if the viewers would take to me. I have to admit that I had the most wonderful time and the public were fantastic. I do not have the slightest bad memory from it. As for doing any other reality television, I’d have to think about that carefully.

Not a lot of people know this but I’m very good at…

Cooking roast lamb with mint sauce and redcurrant jelly. I have to say I’m not a particularly good cook but I certainly know how to do a good traditional roast dinner.

My favourite place in the world is…

The Arctic. I’ve had two memorable holidays there – it’s majestic, awe-inspiring and unspoiled, and during the summer of 2005 I came very close to a polar bear wandering along a great vista of ice. They are beautiful creatures and it was a wonderful experience. It gives you another perspective on life and the environment.

The proudest moment of my life was when…

I entered Parliament for the first time. It was 1987 and the people of Maidstone had just elected me. I found it really quite a humbling experience. Being an MP gave me an opportunity to help others and to try and change lives for the better.

My guiltiest pleasure is…

Lying in bed, getting lost in a good detective novel and enjoying a whisky and soda. Perfect!