FORMER Sir Thomas Boteler headteacher John Sharples is bidding to become the next MasterChef.
The retired Warrington head teacher, aged 70, who now lives with his wife, Yvonne, in Liverpool, was encouraged to enter the competition, which is being screened on BBC2 tonight (Thursday) at 8 pm, while recovering from chemotherapy.
He will be competing against another local contestant, Frankie from Lymm.
John describes his cooking style as ‘Eclectic.’
“I started out cooking traditional British dishes, with some classic French elements, and gradually added styles as I travelled more (Italian and other Mediterranean, then Thai, Sri Lankan, etc).
How did you get into cooking?
My amazing mum gave me six simple recipes to take to university when I was 18 (hot pot, corned beef hash, etc). I discovered I loved cooking and soon became much more adventurous. Later on, my mum gave me her handwritten book of 80 of her favourite recipes, I still use it!
What is your favourite ingredient to cook with and why?
Cabbage is a favourite of mine: it’s healthy, cheap, and it’s so versatile. I’ll sauté it with spices, bake it in bread, barbecue it, wrap it round a filling… they’re all tasty!
Who would be your dream dinner party guest?
Bob Mortimer would be an ideal guest, funny, fascinating, and he loves his food. I’d bake him a delicious pie.
Why did you enter MasterChef this year?
I was recovering from chemotherapy when a friend sent me the application form and told me I had to apply. Getting the news that I was in remission gave me the push to take the plunge!
Do you have a dream of working in the food world? What is it?
I’ve got two lovely sons, Daniel and Ben, who are starting their cooking journeys and I’m enjoying giving them support (when they need it).
Outside of cooking what are your passions?
I’ve always enjoyed music. I’ve been playing bass in a soul band for 40 years: we’re still gigging from time to time. Yvonne is the lead singer. Since I retired, I’ve been doing lots of singing too. We’re both in two choirs, and learning songs is great brain training. We also do lots of walking and I practice yoga.
The full list of contestants can be seen HERE
