World Cancer Day
4th February is World Cancer Day, which is very close to the heart of our head chef, Mark Sorrell, who has been raising money for Prostate Cancer UK for the past 2 years. We thought we would take this opportunity to find out more about Mark and his amazing charity fundraising.
So Mark, how long have you been at W&B?
I’ve been here a year - this time around. I did a couple of short stints before and loved it so much I had to come back!
And what did you do before W&B?
I studied at the University of West London and gained a first class degree in Culinary Arts Management (he said with a rather smug smile). Then I did a few bits and pieces before W&B including working for John Lewis and also with Tom Kerridge at The Hand and Flowers.
What do you like about working at W&B?
It probably sounds super corny, but the team here is great. We genuinely all get on really well. We work hard, but have a laugh at the same time.
And what’s your favourite dish on the menu?
Buttermilk chicken burger – no question. It’s a winner!
Can you tell us a bit about your fundraising for Prostate Cancer UK. What got you involved?
Like most people, I guess, it’s born out of personal experience. One of my favourite people on the planet, my grandad, died in 2014 from Prostate Cancer. And my other grandfather, plus two uncles, have subsequently been diagnosed.
So what have you been up to, and how much have you raised?
Last year I raised £2.4k through a mixture of things. I cycled from London to Amsterdam; held a five-a-side footie tournament; and hired myself out to friends and family to create 5-course dinner parties. I’m doing it all again this year, plus a quiz night at the restaurant. Fingers crossed I’ll raise even more this year.
Prostate Cancer UK must love you?
Everyone I have dealt with there has been great. They do an amazing job supporting people through cancer, and generally raising awareness. Us blokes aren’t always very good with health issues!
Quick Fire:
Cats or Dogs? Dogs
Tea or Coffee? Tea
Superman or Spiderman? Spiderman
Football or Rugby? Football
Town or Country? Country
Latin or Ballroom? Ballroom
Tell us something that people may not know about you?
I’ve played the guitar since I was about 12.
So music is important - what are the last 3 artists played on your Ipod?
The Smiths, Joy Division and Johnny Cash
Keep up the good work Chef! You’re an inspiration in and out of the kitchen.