From behind bars to in front of oven

A former prisoner of HMP Brixton who appeared on the Channel 4 series Gordon Behind Bars is serving up a very different kind of porridge courtesy of leading restaurateur and philanthropist Iqbal Wahhab.

Ex offender Andrew is now working at Iqbal’s acclaimed Borough Market-based eatery Roast having impressed at a special lunch served in a pop-up restaurant in the prison. The event, attended by Iqbal and other invited guests from the catering industry and community based organisations, was featured in the series which saw Gordon Ramsay set up Bad Boy Bakery.

So astounded was Iqbal at how quickly Andrew had mastered the culinary art that he subsequently offered him work experience post release. After a few weeks Andrew was interviewed for a permanent position and is now a full-time member of the Roast team, working under head chef Marcus Verberne.

Commented Iqbal: “When I visited Brixton Prison I was impressed by Andrew’s attention to detail. I pointed this out to Gordon, who amazed me by saying six weeks ago he couldn’t boil an egg. It just shows how much unlocked potential there is out there. Andrew earned his job at Roast fair and square. I know he’s really excited by the opportunity and we look forward to nurturing his talent.”

The hiring of Andrew is part of Iqbal’s wider commitment to working with disadvantaged young people.

A major contributor to grass roots initiatives in the capital and beyond, Iqbal sits on a number of advisory boards and committees and is currently working with Westminster City Council on a project that aims to generate 2,012 apprenticeships and work experience opportunities for young people. He has also raised considerable sums for charities such as The Prince’s Trust and The Mayor’s Fund for London, of which he is a trustee.