TV chef Ainsley Harriott helps prepare dinner for families and staff at childrens hospice

I couldnt resist slipping my apron on and helping out in the kitchen

12:01, 18 Aug 2026

[Ainsley Harriott makes dinner a special experience for young people and staff at Martin House Hospice]

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Ainsley Harriott makes dinner a special experience for young people and staff at Martin House Hospice(Image: martinhouse.org.uk)

TV chef Ainsley Harriott has visited Martin House Childrens Hospice to help prepare dinner for young people staying at the hospice and members of its care team. After receiving a tour of the newly transformed Teenage Wing, completed as part of Martin Houses 21.9m redevelopment project, THE BUILD, Ainsley stepped into the kitchen to add the finishing touches to the evening meal.

He was then introduced to several of the families staying at the hospice, which cares for children and young people from East, West and North Yorkshire. Speaking about his visit, Ainsley said: Its the second time Ive been lucky enough to visit Martin House, but the first time Ive seen the Teenage Wing, and it was brilliant to see all the new facilities available to the young people they support.

While on my tour, I couldnt resist slipping my apron on and helping out in the kitchen. The catering team do an amazing job feeding families and the care team, and Ive been told just how much families appreciate the food they provide.

Having tasted some of the meals today, Im not surprised. I was honoured to lend a helping hand and loved being shown around.

The chef - particularly known for Ready Steady Cook and Can't Cook, Won't Cook - first visited the hospice in Boston Spa last year, when he was shown around the new Childrens Wing before attending the 2025 Glitter Ball fundraising event at Rudding Park. Vicki Greensmith, director of clinical services at Martin House, said: We were absolutely delighted to welcome Ainsley back to Martin House and show him the facilities that have been completed since his last visit.

For him to then help prepare dinner was even more special, and were so grateful for his continued support. Bringing comfort through food has always been an important part of the care we offer at Martin House.

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.

[Ainsley Harriott at Martin House Hospice]

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Ainsley Harriott at Martin House Hospice(Image: martinhouse.org.uk)

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Each year, Martin House supports more than 550 children and young people with life-shortening conditions, and their families. For further information about Martin House Children's Hospice and how to support it, visit martinhouse.org.uk

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