British Airways: Michael Caines

As part of a year long campaign to celebrate British Airways’ 100th birthday, we curated a list of ten exceptional Modern Britons who draw on the nations rich heritage but also have the pioneering spirit to drive their chosen field forward. 

One of those individuals was Michelin-starred hotelier, chef, businessman, charity patron and occasional TV star Michael Caines MBE.

We tasked all of our 'Modern Britons' with offering a bespoke love letter to Britain - Michael created what he described as 'summer on a plate' - fresh strawberries combined with lemon curd, pistachio, cream and local honey infused with lavender. 

It connected to his childhood and the memories of growing fruit and vegetables and turning them into incredible meals with his adopted father. 'Food is about simplicity and the layering and building of flavours. It's about intelligent thinking and cooking in what seems like an effortless way.' 

We filmed and photographed Michael at Lympstone Manor, a beautifully restored Georgian house - a realisation of his dream that symbolises all of the hard work and overcoming of adversity he faced to get there. 'My achievements here really go to the heart of British values. I don't need to go back too many generations before I realise that my ancestors were slaves and yet here I am, sat as the owner bringing this place back to life and being free to express myself and giving people the opportunity to come and discover this amazing place and my cuisine. It really is incredible what you can achieve when you are set free.'

Michael is a true inspiration, and nothing seemed to curb the spirit that made this culinary maestro a key ingredient on the BA 100 list of Modern Britons.