Former glamour model and Emmerdale actress Linda Lusardi today revealed her recent stint in Celebrity Masterchef was one of the “most stressful” experiences of her life.

Linda, speaking to the Express & Star ahead of her return to the Wolverhampton stage for this year’s panto at The Grand Theatre, failed to whip up a winning dish and trailed behind former rugby ace Phil Vickery, who came out top in the final last month.

“You know, I think it was the clock ticking and knowing you have limited time to get the food ready,” she said.

“Also it was being judged because any mistakes can’t be put right – I found it really nerve-wracking.

“I was an OK regular mum cook before and can make a very nice scallop chowder. But this was one of the most stressful programmes I have ever been involved with.”

Linda will star alongside her husband Sam Kane who plays the Prince, with her son as one of the dwarfs. Snow White runs at the Grand from December 10 to January 22.

Tickets start at £18.50 from 01902 429212 or www.grandthe atre.co.uk.

* For the full story see the December issue of Wolverhampton Magazine out today.