BBC reporter Alix Hattenstone asked whether McGarty had recommendations for anyone visiting her home village, which is a short drive from Welwyn Garden City.
“I’m from Hertfordshire, in the countryside. It sounds posh – and some parts are – but mine’s kind of real,” McGarty said.
“[Old Welwyn’s] got a post office, one dentist, one shop. It’s a bit like Emmerdale – I love it.
“I recommend the restaurant there. It’s a very nice family-run business, and it’s gorgeous.”
Alison, one of the restaurant’s owners, said McGarty had been visiting since it opened in 2023 and had also sung at their events.
“Not only is Shona very talented with singing and acting, she is also a very kind and caring person. All the team are very fond of her,” she said.