Celebrity baker Paul Hollywood has shared a humorous anecdote about his encounter with Princess Anne, who greeted him with a refreshingly blunt seven-word question.

Paul's illustrious career in baking began at his family's bakery in York, before he returned to his roots to work in various Merseyside bakeries. His talents soon took him to prestigious hotels, including London's esteemed Dorchester.

Already an accomplished baker, Paul transitioned into television, co-presenting with friend and fellow chef James Martin on the Carlton Food Network and Taste.

However, it's his role as a judge on Channel 4's Great British Bake Off, which he's held since 2010, that has cemented his status as a household name.

In recognition of his contributions to baking and broadcasting, Paul was awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) at a ceremony held at Windsor Castle, where Princess Anne presented him with the honour.

In a recent interview with Woman's Weekly magazine, Paul described the princess as "charming and fascinating". However, their initial conversation took an unexpected turn when she inquired about his tan, asking: "Where did you get that sickening tan?"

Paul explained that he had recently enjoyed some time in the sun, prompting the princess's witty remark.

Reflecting on his illustrious career, he shared the part of his life that fills him with the most pride, stating: "The TV is the icing (on the cake). My career was what I was proud of, because a lad from the north-west ended up going all over the world, doing a job that I didn't think could take me to those places."

He continued: "To end up standing in front of royalty was amazing."

In addition to reminiscing about his career highlights, Paul also shared that the next series of the Great British Bake Off is set to start filming "soonish".

This tidbit follows the celebrity edition of the show that aired earlier this year, featuring stars like Amelia Dimoldenberg, Roman Kemp and Gloria Hunniford battling it out in the tent, with Good Morning Britain's Kate Garraway ultimately being crowned the winner.

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