Finalists compete to win gastronomic title
Sponsored by Farm & Cottage Holidays, Ashburton Cookery School and Villeroy & Boch, South West Chef of the Year 2010 organised by Taste of the West in association with Michael Caines @ ABode Hotels is the region’s largest cooking competition. Now in its eighth year, the competition rewards the gastronomic skills of the region in its annual search for the West Country’s very best chefs, open to people working in the catering industry as well as enthusiastic amateurs.
Nine finalists from Devon, Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire were announced for the cook-off final last Thursday 5th August 2010 at Ashburton Cookery School, Devon. Judging began at 9.30 am to 3.00 pm, followed by the Award Presentations at 3.30-3.45 pm. Professional, young professional and amateur chefs were challenged to devise a two-course meal for two people using regionally and locally produced food.
The competitors were judged by a panel of acclaimed chefs including two-star Michelin chef Michael Caines MBE, ABode Hotels, ABode Exeter and Gidleigh Park, Chagford; Christopher and James Tanner, Tanners, Plymouth and Peter Gorton, formerly of The Horn of Plenty, Gunnislake, Tavistock. The competition aims to find the very best chefs with drive, talent and a commitment to sourcing regional food and drink.
John Sheaves, Chief Executive of Taste of the West, said, “This is the perfect opportunity for professionals and home enthusiasts alike to raise their personal profile and impress top level judges with their culinary skills. Local sourcing is now an accepted part of good hospitality service and the SW Chef of the Year continues to inspire and encourage amateur, young and professional chefs”’
James Morris, Managing Director of Farm & Cottage Holidays said, "Supporting the local food and drink industry across the South West is extremely important and we believe sponsoring these awards will help to inform our customers about the excellent food and drink products the west country has to offer."