“My father describes himself as a Pole of Lithuanian descent. At Southampton University, he read aeronautical engineering and then the family moved to Hong Kong - this was before I was born - where he designed aeroplanes. Back in the U.K., he worked as a civil engineer, although every spare minute was spent researching his family's history.”

English comedian, television presenter and actress

Melanie Clare Sophie Giedroyc is an English comedian, television presenter and actress. She is known for her work across British television, where she has combined comic timing with an easy presenting style. Giedroyc has built a career in entertainment as both a performer and a host, moving between comedy, studio presenting and acting. Her public profile rests on that range, and on the warm, lively style that has made her a familiar figure on screen.