The former wildman of Dirty Sanchez is now a vegan endurance athlete with a BBC cookery show. Ruth Seavers and Josh Rees find out about the drastic changes in the life of Matt Pritchard.

 

Your new BBC One show, Dirty Vegan, is the BBC’s first ever vegan cookery programme. Do you hope that the show will encourage others to consider becoming vegan?

If my show encourages more to be vegan then I’m happy with that. I’m so honoured to be able to have that title – the first vegan show. The show is full of comedy, it’s educational and very lighthearted to make for easy enjoyable viewing. The series isn’t preachy.

You have released a vegan cookbook to accompany the TV series, which is also called Dirty Vegan. What advice would you give to someone who is considering becoming vegan but is concerned that a vegan diet may lack variety?

There are some great, easy-to-make recipes in my book and I purposely did that to make it easier for others to follow. Also, the internet is awash with information so you can’t go wrong really.

Did you jump feet first into veganism or was it a gradual change?

I went pescatarian first and then after watching [Netflix documentary] Cowspiracy I went vegan the following day and I haven’t looked back.

Do you think you’re challenging the image of what it means to be a vegan? It seems a lot of people seem to be tuning in because they like you and not necessarily veganism, but stay when they learn more…

I’m really glad that others like me and if my approach to veganism helps others look into it a bit more then that’s a good thing. I have had a little bit of negativity coming my way but I refuse to fight it with hate and send them a nice message in return.

You are becoming increasingly well-known as an endurance athlete, recently completing a triathlon around the coastline and border of Wales. What extreme physical challenges do you have planned for this year?

I really enjoy my endurance events and I really enjoy my training. It’s what keeps me mentally-focused and healthy. This year I’m going for the continuous Deca, which is 10 Ironman triathlons in 10 days, so it’s a massive challenge.

Have you managed to convince any of the other Dirty Sanchez guys to join in with your physical challenges? Obviously these are different challenges to the ones you used to put yourselves through…

None of the other lads really work out but Dainton is a big lover of eating well and he just did Veganuary which is great. He once lived on just drinking water for 30 days!

Looking back as a reformed party animal, what advice would you give a young Matt Pritchard?

“You’re about to go on one mental fairground ride. Buckle up baby and enjoy it… you’re gonna have some fun!”

Do you have any regrets from the Dirty Sanchez years?

Nope, never. Those years were fun.

What are your top places for affordable vegetarian or vegan food in Wales?

Anna Loka, Greazy Vegan and Milgi.