Four chefs from the North East are in the running to be crowned ‘Akari Care Master Chef 2015’ thanks to an innovative competition presented by celebrity chef Richard Phillips.
The initiative, organised by Akari Care, which operates 26 care homes in the region, and grocery and food supplier Brakes, to help promote British produce and care home nutrition, involved chefs from across all Akari Care’s homes in the UK.
The finalists will be judged on two courses – a main and a dessert – using only British produce available from Brakes.
A regular on The Lorraine Show and Saturday Kitchen, Richard Phillips will judge the winner at Catton Hall Estate, in Walton-on-Trent, on October 15.
Chefs Edward Chalmers of Hillfield Nursing Home in Newcastle, Thomas Lackenby of Philips Court in Gateshead, Roseanne Hopkins of Piper Court in Stockton and Janice Slowther of Westerleigh Residential Home in Stanley, made it to the final six after progressing through the regional heats.
The winner will receive a short break with a partner to either Edinburgh or London.
Lynn Fearn, deputy CEO at Akari Care, said: “At each of our care homes we have some excellent chefs, and the competition is a great way to promote their work in a creative and fun way.
“Catering in the healthcare industry is of the utmost importance, so it is vital to ensure that the correct ingredients, nutrients and preparation are incorporated during meals, especially when taking into account certain dietary requirements and allergies that some elderly residents may have.”
“It is going to be a fantastic day for all involved and to have Richard Phillips present at the final will only add to the event, as well as provide our excellent kitchen staff with further advice and tips. I would like to thank each and every one of our kitchen staff for their hard work all year round and for supporting the initiative and all six finalist all the very best of luck!”