FoodCycle Patrons and Ambassadors

Giorgio Locatelli is a Michelin-starred chef and author who has been involved with FoodCycle since early 2012 after visiting one of our Projects in North London and seeing what we do first-hand.

“Throwing food away is the worst way of wasting money which is something we really can’t afford unless we are blind to the food poverty that surrounds us here, in the UK and in our very neighbourhoods – not just in other countries. If I can do anything to promote awareness about the food wastage issue then I will do it as FoodCycle is a worthy cause.”

Danilo is Head Chef at The Italian Embassy and became Patron for FoodCycle having volunteered at one of the Projects. He has since supported numerous campaigns, including cooking additional meals to be delivered to FoodCycle guests in Hackney and Marylebone, as part of the temporary delivery service.

“FoodCycle is very close to my heart and we share the same values coming from a very humble family where mealtimes were always spent together and where nothing went to waste; over-ripe fruit became marmalade, cheese crusts went into soups, and old eggs became custard. After working for so long in the industry, I’ve seen first-hand the amount of food that’s wasted. What FoodCycle does with waste and surplus food, combining it with volunteers who cater for those often forgotten or isolated, is something which can only be applauded and I have been a passionate supporter since 2016.”

Jack Thorne is an award-winning television producer known for Shameless, Skins, This is England and most recently, Help. Jack is also a passionate advocate for the disabled community in the dramatic arts. He was introduced to FoodCycle’s work in December 2020, when both parties were involved in The Old Vic’s much-acclaimed stage production of A Christmas Carol.

“What a beautiful thing FoodCycle has made. I was lucky enough to join the volunteers at FoodCycle Islington recently and I was really touched by everything it was and the way everyone clearly needed it.  And the food was delicious and healthy.”

Executive Chef at the Salt Yard Group restaurants.

“This is a great cause and charity. It got my attention straight away as its relevant to me and my industry, common sense and above all doing good”.

Television and media star, Vicky was first introduced to FoodCycle through the Christmas Meal Appeal with our corporate partner Just Eat. Having visited a Project as part of the campaign and meeting some of our guests Vicky was keen to do more.  She has since helped raise awareness of our work and volunteered at our Walker Project which is close to where she grew up.

“FoodCycle is absolutely incredible, and I feel very proud to be an ambassador and support their work. I feel like now, more so than ever it’s important that anyone who can, is supporting their community, whether that’s raising awareness or getting stuck in and volunteering.  You should really get down there – the volunteers whip up amazing food – I came second on Celebrity MasterChef and I couldn’t do half the stuff they do in a FoodCycle kitchen!”

Elle Osili-Wood is an award-winning television presenter and broadcaster for ITV and the BBC. A celebrated entertainment host, Elle’s career has seen her named a BAFTA Breakthrough in television – but off-screen, she’s a regular volunteer at her local FoodCycle. 
 
“FoodCycle’s weekly meals aren’t just about food; they’re about creating a warm, welcoming space where people can come together, share, and feel seen. In a time when many feel isolated, this community connection is more valuable than ever, and I’m honoured to be part of an initiative that helps fill that need, while also reducing food waste.” 

Melissa is a self-taught chef, food columnist, best-selling cookbook author, real food activist and sustainability champion who is passionate about spreading the power of feel-good food.

“The FoodCycle team are some of the kindest most caring people I’ve met, they are full of action, enthusiasm and they use their energy, time and everyone’s generous donations to not only provide delicious meals but also training, support, cooking lessons and more.”

“I’m very conscious of the global scale of starvation & any initiative which tackles this problem can only be a good thing. I’m delighted to help raise awareness of the valuable work of FoodCycle.”

“I wholeheartedly and totally support the work of FoodCycle. Being an Indian and understanding the plight of poverty and hunger, I agree with making use of perfectly edible food that would otherwise be wasted and turning it into fantastic meals for people in need.”