Isabella Mary Beeton was born in London in 1836 and grew up in a household of 21 children. Her style, imparting information as clearly as possible, was hugely influential and the enduring popularity of MRS BEETON'S BOOK OF HOUSEHOLD MANAGEMENT is a testament to the quality of her advice.

Gerard Baker is a chef, food writer, broadcaster and historian. He has written extensively for THE TIMES, THE KITCHEN GARDEN and BBC GOOD FOOD MAGAZINE, and has been a specialist food contributor for BBC's national news networks and programmes for over 12 years. He has made numerous television appearances, most notably on the judging panel on Rosemary Shrager's SCHOOLS FOR COOKS and as the food historian to the Hairy Bikers on the MUMS KNOW BEST tour.

Gerard's website can be found at http://www.gerardbaker.com/ and his Twitter is @gerardbaker1