Simon Gamble's 'Job Talk' 13/11/24

Simon is local - his family ran Gamble's Florists in Scartho for many years. His interest in food started at Hereford School and in the scouts.

Upon leaving school he trained in catering at Grimsby School, where money was no object as far as ingredients went. At the age of 18 he left home and went to work in hotel kitchens in London. Old style 'brigades' were in operation in the kitchens and bullyin and shouting were commonplace. Simon reached the position of sous-chef at the Chesterfield Hotel in Berkeley Square, before returning to Grimsby.

There he went back to the College, earning a degree and starting to teach there. He the entered the world of product development at the Sauce Company at Scunthorpe. This had grown to become the third largest employer in Scunthorpe, and Simon became a director and involved in a management buyout. The company supplies restaurants, hotels and pubs and over the years Simon travelled the world eating in the finest restaurants!

After 30 years he went in to semi-retirement, but still works a few days a month. In 2006 Simon was 'Development Chef of the Year'.

Simon then answered questions. A very interesting talk, much appreciated by members.