James Ball & Preston Walker

James Ball & Preston Walker are chefs specialising in catering for health and social care. With over 20 years experience in this complex area the 2 chefs have set up Oak House Kitchen to develop innovative ways for patients and caterers to achieve delicious and nutritious foods that fit medical recommendations.

Preston came from a fine dining background working in restaurants throughout the UK. Starting his career at the Michelin starred Hambleton Hall. He followed this with stints at the Kildare Hotel & Country Club and Harts Restaurant. As Head Chef at World Service Restaurant he and the team won Nottingham Restaurant of the Year 4 times.

James is a self-taught chef with a background in science and training. Late into the hospitality industry his passion for good food quickly led him through the ranks to head chef. He entered healthcare kitchen management in 2010 and saw the need for improved standards and training.

Oak House Kitchen was born out of the kitchen at Oak House Residential Home, Preston’s family business where the ethos was developed for delicious and nutritious food despite medical requirements. Oak House Kitchen has up to now provided training and advice to thousands of people working in the sector here in Britain and globally.