Ainsley Harriott joins Martin House kitchen team during visit to Wetherby hospice

Ainsley Harriott lent his culinary skills to Martin House Children’s Hospice in Wetherby

Celebrity chef Ainsley Harriott made a special return visit to Martin House Children’s Hospice in Wetherby, where he not only toured the newly completed Teenage Wing but also helped prepare dinner for patients, their families, and staff.

This marks Harriott’s second visit to the Boston Spa hospice, which offers palliative care and respite stays for children and young people facing life-shortening conditions.

His previous visit last year saw him tour the new Children’s Wing before attending the 2025 Glitter Ball fundraising event at Rudding Park.

The Teenage Wing, a key part of Martin House’s £21.9 million redevelopment project, THE BUILD, was a highlight of his tour. Harriott met several families during his time at the hospice.

Reflecting on his visit, Harriott said: “It’s the second time I’ve been lucky enough to visit Martin House, but the first time I’ve seen the Teenage Wing, and it was brilliant to see all the new facilities available to the young people they support.”

Known for hosting popular shows such as Ready Steady Cook andCan’t Cook, Won’t Cook, Harriott couldn't resist getting involved in the kitchen. He joined the catering team to add the finishing touches to the evening meals.

“While on my tour, I couldn’t resist slipping my apron on and helping out in the kitchen,” Harriott explained. “The catering team do an amazing job feeding families and the care team, and I’ve been told just how much families appreciate the food they provide. Having tasted some of the meals today, I’m not surprised! I was honoured to lend a helping hand and loved being shown around.”

Vicki Greensmith, Director of Clinical Services at Martin House, expressed her gratitude for Harriott's continued support.

“We were absolutely delighted to welcome Ainsley back to Martin House and show him the facilities that have been completed since his last visit,” she said. “For him to then help prepare dinner was even more special, and we’re so grateful for his continued support.”

Greensmith highlighted the importance of food in the hospice's care philosophy.

“Bringing comfort through food has always been an important part of the care we offer at Martin House,” she added. “For many families caring for a child or young person with a life-shortening condition, there is so much going on that finding time to eat properly can be difficult. So when they come to the hospice, our kitchen team prepares delicious, home-cooked meals free of charge, giving parents one less thing to think about.”