04 Sep 2024
We ask a different figure from the local community to choose 10 questions to answer from a list of 50. This week: Novelist and book editor Becky Alexander, formerly the food writer for The Herts Advertiser. Her second novel, The Other Mrs Eden is out in September. A young woman takes a job working for famous actor, Jemima Eden. But what goes on behind closed doors isn’t always what the world sees…. A page-turning thriller about ambition, rivalry, friendship, and pretending to be someone different.
Photo: Stephanie Belton
Are things getting better or worse?
I’m going to focus on St Albans, and say better. We’ve lived here for almost 25 years and I think the arts scene, outdoor events, restaurants and cafés are better than ever. If we can just upgrade the Alban Arena (like the Aylesbury one please) then I will be so happy!
Were you well behaved at school?
Hmm, I was about to say yes, then realised that I got a blackboard rubber thrown at my head, though I can’t remember why. Possibly talking. And one lunchtime we went to the pub, and the head of sixth form came to take us back to school. So maybe not.
Where do you most like to have a picnic in St Albans?
Sitting right in front of the Cathedral. Usually eating something from the market – I love the falafels.
Who is your favourite St Albans musician or band?
The Pluckwits. We don’t perform as often as we used to, but I have very happy memories of all being together.
Which three people, living or dead, would be your ideal dinner party guests?
Agatha Christie, Judi Dench and Judi Love. We can chat about thrillers, acting and have a good laugh.
What was your first job?
Supermarket checkout. I used to like using the sticker gun. Yes, I’m that old. I’ve also sold ice creams, made cocktails, cooked on a BBQ, worked in pubs, run a catering company… lots of food-related jobs.
What’s your favourite hidden gem in the district?
The Roman Theatre. The summer festival is amazing, but still people who don’t live in St Albans are amazed that there is an actual Roman theatre in the UK, and they’ve never heard of it.
Have you ever been arrested and if so for what?
Sort-of? When I was a Scout we got lost on a night hike and got ‘rescued’ by the police at 3 in the morning.
Where do you walk when you want to think?
Gustard Wood. Beautiful at any time of year – bluebells, snowdrops, holly and a buttercup meadow nearby.
Most inspirational St Albans person – living or dead?
There are some amazing people living or working here, who want to make life better (rather than moan on social media). Daisy Cooper, Adam Nichols (I love the Roman Theatre festival so much), Liz Marcy (brilliant local events), Jon Prayer (love Common People), Annie Brewster…
