ONE OF the UK’s most famous conflicts is set to be repeated – with a kitchen as the new battlefield.
The 15th century War of the Roses saw the houses of York and Lancaster pitched against each other in a civil war over who had the right to the throne of England.
And now the historical battles are to be recreated, using kitchen knives and pans – and including a new protagonist for the first time.
Steven Smith, chef owner of The Freemasons, at Wiswell in Lancashire, has run the annual event where he pitches himself against a chef from Yorkshire, with diners deciding who is triumphant, for several years.
And this time round his opponent will be chef, Josh Overington, of the highly acclaimed Le Cochon Aveugle, in York.
The event – taking place on 27 November – will see each chef cook three courses with diners kept in the dark over who has prepared which dish.
The guests will then be asked to score each course, to see whether the house of York or Lancaster is triumphant this time round.
“I am absolutely delighted to have been asked by Steven to take part in The War of the Roses this year because I know it’s always a really popular event,” said Josh.
“I know Lancaster won the final battle in the original wars, but let’s hope York can be victorious this time round.”
Steven Smith said; “I’m really looking forward to having Josh and his team representing Yorkshire for this event.
“We’ve had a lot of fun with the War of the Roses over the last few years, as our customers appreciate being able to try two different styles of cooking under one roof.
“There’s always a bit of friendly rivalry between the two counties, which adds to the occasion, and of course we’ll be looking for Lancashire to walk away the victor on the night.”
Limited tickets remain for the event at £70 each, or £110 to include a wine package.
For further details visit www.freemasonatwiswell.com or call 01254 822218.
For information on Le Cochon Aveugle visit www.lecochonaveugle.uk or call the restaurant directly on 01904 640 222.