Former Swinging Sixties party girl Jane Asher prefers the quieter things in life these days including crossword puzzles and baking

These days, the mother-of-three - who has been married to Gerald Scarfe since 1981 - loves the simple life of reading, brain games and making cakes.

She told Yours magazine: "Of course, I've changed hugely and I really enjoy time at home watching TV. I like things that have lateral questions and are more about how your brain works.

I love doing The Times crossword puzzles. They're maddening and infuriating, but because you're worrying about something totally silly and unnecessary, it kind of takes stress away from other things. It's a great distraction. I've also just rediscovered the joy of reading. I love technology but the simple pleasure of reading a book is great."

The 'Mandy' star finds baking "super relaxing".

She shared: "So many people took up baking during lockdown for the first time, which was wonderful. I did some too. Home baking is still a big part of my life and it's super relaxing.

The feeling of pride you get putting a cake on the table for people to enjoy is lovely."

She also loves sewing after getting to grips with the craft.

Jane told the publication: "I really, really love it. The fabrics you can buy online are so beautiful and there's a limitless choice. It's much cheaper making a dress for someone than buying it, and you can make it unique."

Elsewhere, the author admitted it's unlikely she will pen another novel.

She said: "Id like to think so but whether I really will do another one, I don't know. I always intended to write a fourth novel but it's now such a long time since I wrote the others I think, realistically, it's unlikely, but you never know."

On what makes her happy, she added: "Looking out of the window and seeing a bit of sunshine after such a lot of rain makes a difference. It's surprising how much of an effect the weather has an you. A nice warm, spring or summer day makes me happy!"