The Veterans’ Artisan Bakery has agreed a new two-year partnership with chef Rosemary Shrager, who will support it as a celebrity patron.

The star of ITV1’s last series of I’m a Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! launched the bakery back in February 2012, which is based in Catterick, North Yorkshire, and helps former soldiers suffering with post-traumatic stress or vulnerable to homelessness.

Run by social housing organisation Riverside ECHG, the bakery centres provides individuals with new careers skills, as well as an insight into running a business.

Shrager said: “I had an instinctive connection with the bakery, the charity, and its work and how baking can work on a therapeutic level. I have always supported charities that help address mental health issues and I wholeheartedly believe the work the bakery does with veterans, who are damaged, physically, mentally or emotionally, can help transform vulnerable lives.

“I’m a great believer in offering fresh starts for people, I’ve been rock-bottom myself and I know how baking has transformed my own life.”

Carol Matthews, chief executive of Riverside, said: “We’re thrilled Rosemary is on board. Her kind-heartedness shines through and, with her passion for baking, we couldn’t ask for a more perfect partnership. She is passionate about our work and how she can help generate support. She also understands the importance of providing vocational opportunities for our veterans, who need to find a new career out of the Services.”  

Cause UK, a specialist in fundraising and marketing support charities, brought the TV chef on board following the bakery’s launch last year, and is working with both Riverside and Shrager to deliver bespoke fundraising initiatives.