JAMIE'S RECIPE FOR TV SUCCESS

Jamie Oliver is looking for an aspiring cookbook author in his new TV show. JENNIFER RODGER asks the celeb chef why he wanted to be part of the mix

FOR 23 years Jamie Oliver has written an annual cookery book, so he’s well placed to lead a new culinary talent show.

On the look out for the next big name in cookery writing, the celebrity chef brings all his usual trademark cheer and heart to the The Great Cookbook Challenge.

Over the next seven weeks, 18 hopefuls will try to impress Jamie and his expert judges with their recipes and book concepts, with a lucrative book deal with Penguin Random House up for grabs.

Jamie tells us more...

Tell us about your role in the show

I’m quite glad that I’m more mentor than judge. I didn’t want to have to choose between people. Really, what I had to offer was more helping each individual find their hook, their thing, their voice, their confidence. It was a really fun job, I loved it.

What are you looking for?

Just because you’re a chef and talented doesn’t mean you’re going to be an author that resonates with the public.