Quick-thinking comedienne Debra Stephenson is in the famous black chair for the BBC’s Celebrity Mastermind this Saturday to raise money for children’s hospice Julia’s House.

And her specialist subject is her long-time hero and Liverpool legend, John Lennon.

“I have always admired him as a truth seeker and activist for peace,” she said. “Qualities that couldn’t be more relevant today.

"I started studying transcendental meditation in 2020 and have been practicing ever since, so I was curious to find out more about The Beatles’ experience in India with The Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Delving into their story I was most drawn to Lennon; his was a captivating discovery of spirituality and an epic journey in self-improvement.”

She confessed the greatest challenge was the worry her mind would seize up under pressure. “Learning about a subject and using recall to answer questions is a great way to ‘tone up’ the mind and most importantly for me, a great exercise in staying calm and focused under pressure.

“The other contestants were friendly, I didn’t get any competitive vibes - but then I’m not a competitive person. I’ve done many competitions; from Opportunity Knocks when I was 14 to the Strictly Christmas Special, but I draw the line at eating insects - I hate creepy crawlies!”

Debra split her charity winnings between the hospice and Blind Veterans, who helped her grandad at the end of his life when no one was allowed to visit or help him during the 2020 lockdown.

She raised £1,500 for Julia’s House. Chief executive Martin Edwards said: “We’re so grateful to Debra for her generosity and her quick-fire answers in the hot-seat. Donations like these make it possible for the most seriously ill children and their families to access the lifeline of support and respite they need at the most challenging of times.”

Debra added: “I hope people will be inspired to do what they can for this children’s hospice, and I hope John Lennon will remind them to be truth-seekers and ‘give peace a chance’ because All you Need is Love.”

The show is screened at 5.35pm on February 18.