Trivia: Originally trained as a sculptor. Started working in his father's bakery when he was 18. Trained to become a driving instructor but never qualified. Spent time travelling around the world to learn new baking techniques including staying with Bedouins in the desert. Met his future wife in Cyprus when he was head baker at a five-star hotel and she was a scuba diving instructor. Went on to become head baker at hotels in the UK such as The Dorchester, Cliveden and Chester Grosvenor Spa. His 2005 book 100 Great Breads was named the 'Top Bread and Pastry Book' by the Gourmand World Cookbook Awards for the year. In 2008, created an almond and roquefort sourdough recipe that was said to be the most expensive bread in the UK. Has been a judge on The Great British Bake Off since 2010. Became a columnist for The Telegraph newspaper in September 2013. Embarked on a live baking tour in 2014 called Get Your Bake On! Works closely with the Pilgrim Hospices' Piece of Cake campaign that aims to raise money for specialist care through bake sales. Is known for his honest and straightforward critiques and restricting judgement only to the finished product. Began his motor racing career in 2015, making his debut in the Beechdean AMR Aston Martin Vantage GT4. Came first in class in July 2017 at the Dunlop endurance race at Silverstone in an Aston Martin GT4, and second in class in an Aston Martin GT8 in his first 24 hour race at the Circuit of the Americas in November 2017.