In 1972, Raymond arrived in Britain to work as a waiter. One day, when the cook was ill, Raymond took over the kitchen. At that moment, his career was born. Raymond soon opened his first restaurant, Les Quat’ Saisons, in Summertown, Oxford. Triumph swiftly followed.

It was in 1984, however, that Raymond opened Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons in Great Milton, Oxfordshire. A stunning hotel and restaurant in harmony, today, Belmond Le Manoir is the only UK country house hotel to have retained two Michelin stars for over 30 years. Its gardens are the envy of botanists worldwide, and it is also home to the acclaimed Raymond Blanc Cookery School.

Although entirely self-taught, Raymond has championed and nurtured some of the country’s most respected chefs in his kitchens. Thirty of these protégés have gone on to win Michelin stars for themselves, including such names as Marco Pierre White, Michael Caines MBE, Bruno Loubet and Ollie Dabbous.

Raymond is a best-selling author and much-loved BBC television presenter. His most recent series – Kew on a Plate – celebrated England’s heritage produce throughout the seasons and was met with critical acclaim. Other popular series have included Kitchen Secrets, The Very Hungry Frenchman and The Restaurant.

Raymond was the founder of Brasserie Blanc, a group of 18 brasseries in England serving high-quality French cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere and at affordable prices. An acknowledged champion of sustainability, he is also the President of the Sustainable Restaurant Association.

In 2007, Raymond was appointed an OBE by Her Majesty The Queen. In 2013, he was awarded the National Order of the Legion of Honour, the highest French decoration.