Entering Bake Off tent was 'a pinch me moment'

Lesley was successful in getting on the show after a number of failed attempts in previous years

A hairdresser from Kent said stepping into the Great British Bake Off tent for the first time was a "pinch me moment".

Lesley, 59, from Eynsford, will be hoping to impress judges Prue Leith and Paul Hollywood when the new series begins on 2 September on Channel 4.

Speaking to BBC Radio Kent, contestant Lesley said the judges were "extremely friendly" and that taking part on the show has also given her "friends for life".

She said: "It was amazing walking into the tent for the first time. It's iconic and I had a few 'pinch me' moments."

Lesley said judges Paul Hollywood and Prue Leith were 'extremely friendly'

Lesley mainly bakes for her husband Mark, as well as her family and the hair salon where she works.

She said she has always loved baking, adding: "It has always been a hobby and a release."

She said she had applied for the show "a few times" but "finally managed to get through" this year.

She said: "Cakes and pastries have always been my strong point but some challenges will push me out my comfort zone - but that will be great."