Which lesson has been the hardest to learn?

That my own opinion of myself is what matters the most. It took me a while to realise this because I grew up in the public eye.

What food sums up happiness?

Chocolate. You can’t beat it.

What have you never understood?

Algebra. I just can’t get my head around it.

What is the one thing you want to know before you die?

That I accomplished everything I was meant to personally and professionally. That I helped people switch off from their problems for a little while and that the world will be a better place when I leave it than when I arrived.

Are you scared of dying or what happens when you die?

I know I’m not here forever and I’ve made peace with that. It’s the thought of leaving loved ones behind that makes me sad. My beliefs keep me strong as I truly know in my heart that I will be with them again.

Mince pies or mulled wine?

Neither. I like to celebrate Christmas with a nice chilled glass of pink champagne.

Martine’s album Lost And Found is out now; follow her on Instagram @martinemccutcheon; Love Actually is available to stream on Netflix now

Images: Moviestore/REX/Shutterstock, Canongate

Martine McCutcheon on the meaning of Christmas and the best festive film