First Dates’ Fred on how our tech addiction is ruining romance

a team of people go in to train prisoners about the industry and it’s not about what they have done in the past, it’s about what they are doing now that’s important.

“I’ve worked with offenders for the past 10 years. I met the prison governor and we spoke about using their existing restaurant facilities and equipment to train the guys, so they have less chance of reoffending because they will have a trained job to go to.

“He agreed, and we set up the restaurant. Now we are looking to roll it out in Category C prisons across the country. I have put in a bid to open another two; one in Wormwood Scrubs and the other in Pentonville and I am waiting to hear the outcome.”

It’s hard to believe, but it has only been two days since Fred was granted “settled status” to stay in this country post-Brexit after the Home Office made “a mistake” in his application.

BORN in France and brought up in Limoges, he moved to London at the age of 20 to work at restaurants including La Tante Claire and Le Gavroche. So he was stunned to be told he needed proof he had

been in Britain for five years and was denied settled status.

On Tuesday night, he tweeted: “Is this a joke? I have lived here for 27 years continuously. I supplied all you asked for inc my NI number. Surely you can work it out, can’t you?”

The Home Office has now apologised and told Fred he has the right to remain.

Which is quite handy set to launch Britain’s Waiters Day on Sunday.

“We couldn’t find any staff and it is important to promote the industry because it is not respected or appreciated, so we need to spread the message and tell people catering is a profession and there are many opportunities out there,” as he is National he says. Although he’ll turn 48 in January, Fred shows no signs of slowing down.

“I am lucky in that I eat what I want but I can’t beat Father Time so within five minutes of waking up, I do 300 push-ups and come back late at night and do the same thing,” he admits.

“I cycle to work and shadow box at the gym. I love the adrenalin when you spar in a ring and have been boxing for over 10 years now.

“I don’t feel my age and have the energy of a 20-year-old. I live every day like it’s my last. It’s fullon but when I die, at least I am not going to have any regrets!”