Londoner George Aristidou grew up in a close-knit Greek-Cypriot family where food was always a big part of family life. Now married to his childhood sweetheart, he has four children and a house full of animals, including a dancing Japanese Spitz, called Eli. His mum taught him to bake (a legacy he’s now passing on to his own children), and he loves all the Greek classics.

He competed on the 12th series of The Great British Bake Off, where his creations included Greek-inspired focaccia; cherry marzipan biscuits; and salted caramel, almond & hazelnut dacquoise.

He works with Shared Lives, a scheme that matches adults and young people who need long term support with approved carers.

When George isn’t baking, gardening or looking after his miniature zoo, he will be in the great outdoors with his family, on bike rides and walks.