Oliver last week paid a visit to Amy Juttla, the winner of his inaugural Christmas card competition. Amy, 11, lives in Bushey and Mr Dowden dropped round for tea with her and her family.

Speaking after the visit, Oliver said: ‘It was lovely to meet with Amy and her family on Friday.

‘Every year I send hundreds of Christmas cards to local people, community organisations, friends and family.

‘Last year, I wanted my Christmas card to be designed by our local children to reflect their creative skills and I held a competition to find the best one.

‘The winner was Amy who created a wonderfully warm and festive design. She received 100 cards with her own design as a prize.

‘I am grateful to the whole family for their hospitality and treating me to such a delicious spread of food.’