James Martin believes one item from his childhood is now ‘worth a fortune’

Celebrity chef has shared a glimpse into his early life, revealing that his ‘real pride and joy’ is now ‘worth a fortune’.

In an interview with The Times, the host disclosed that his childhood bedroom was adorned with Ferrari and Lamborghini posters, and Star Wars Evel Knievel memorabilia, much like any other teenager in 1980s England.

However, one item from his youth that he still cherishes is his BMX bike, which he believes would be “worth a fortune now”.

The children’s bike ranges in price online with some available for as much as £1,000 a huge leap from what they would have been worth in the 1980s.

Reflecting on his upbringing in Yorkshire, the 52-year-old expressed his enduring pride in his roots, regardless of where he is in the world, saying: “I was back there last weekend.

“I’m up there in a couple of days. Doesn’t matter where I am in the world I never think of myself as anything other than a proud Yorkshireman.”

Born in Malton and raised in the small village of Welburn in North Yorkshire, James embarked on his culinary journey by training as a chef in France.

After honing his skills in several high-end restaurants, he made his foray into broadcasting at the age of 24 with James Martin: Yorkshire’s Finest.

In addition to his television career, James also owns a number of restaurants, having first launched The Leeds Kitchen in 2011. However, it is his TV work that has made him a household name.

Alongside Saturday Morning on ITV, James has presented on ‘s Saturday Kitchen and led a variety of cookery shows including James Martin’s Spanish Adventure. He also appeared on in 2005, finishing in fourth place.

James Martin’s Saturday Morning makes its return today (January 18) on ITV at 9.30am. He will be joined at his Hampshire home by singer-songwriter David Gray, chefs Lesley Waters, Daniel Galmiche and Corrin Harrison.