Families for Children is delighted to have the support of two well-known local celebrities, Michael Caines MBE (Patron) and Judi Spiers (Vice Patron).



Michael Caines is one of Britain's most acclaimed chefs. AA Chef's Chef of the Year in 2007, and awarded MBE in 2006 for services to the hospitality industry, Michael is an Operational Partner and Director of ABode Hotels and Michael Caines Restaurants. He is also Executive Chef at Gidleigh Park, the prestigious country house hotel on the edge of Dartmoor at Chagford, Devon, where he has earned his reputation - as well as two Michelin stars - serving distinctive modern European cuisine utilising the finest local and regional produce and ingredients. Amongst numerous other recent accolades, Michael has cooked in 10 Downing Street for the Prime Minister and taken part in 'The Great British Menu' competition for the honour of cooking for the Queen's 80th birthday.

Michael was born in Exeter in 1969 and adopted into a large and loving family. He gained his passion for food from his mother who he used to enjoy helping in the kitchen. Says Michael, "I grew up in a large family and my love of food and cooking came from the big family meals we always shared together, prepared by my mother, who was a wonderful cook. My father loved to grow vegetables and fruit in our garden, and so I grew up appreciating the flavours of the freshest foods, picked that day and simply prepared."





Judi Spiers is a true 'Devon Maid' who returned to her home ground after spending several years with BBC Radio 2. A highly experienced and respected broadcaster and interviewer, Judi also worked - most notably - at the old Pebble Mill studios and for Westward TV and TSW, being a popular face both at home in the South West and 'up the line'. Listen to Judi's BBC Radio Devon Show, weekdays 8.55am-midday, to enjoy her eclectic mix of humour, celebrity guests, quizzes & competitions.