Debbie Warland has worked in the catering industry for over 20 years and in this time has gained valuable experience in retail and hospitality catering. It all began in 1985 when she attended Oxford College, and studied for a BTEC certificate in catering and hospitality. Also in this year Debbie was awarded 'student of the year' by the college.

Having finished college, the university beckoned and by 1987 she had progressed to sous-chef. Then wishing to gain more experience, a move to the hotel sector was made, where she remained until 1990.

Then came a move to a commercial catering company as head chef for Oxford University Press, and following a year long management course she took the job of catering manager at Ryecotewood College, holding responsibility for all aspects of the catering service.

However, always having the ambition to work for herself Debbie started up the Picnic Hamper in 1997 to provide a quality and professional food service for the retail, business and event catering sector, and also a daily sandwich delivery service to area’s in and around oxford from Monday to Friday.

To date, The Picnic hamper has undergone substantial development, with recently renovated premesis, new look website and extra staff all to ensure a consistent and quality service.