James' passion for food started as a child through family trips to France, discovering new and wonderful flavours. His mother was an excellent cook, and good-quality food was always at the heart of family life.

James started working in kitchens at 17, eventually becoming the landlord of his own pub for 14 years. That journey grew into a passion for creating food, developing flavours, and bringing people together.

Over the years, James developed a particular passion for creating and developing sauces, experimenting with flavours, and finding the perfect balance.

And that passion is what ultimately led him to Stokes, where he brings experience and creativity together to develop exciting new products.

James will be looking at the versatility of Stokes Sauces and the different ways they can be used in the kitchen, on the Skills On Stage tent.