The British Culinary Federation calls for entries for the Chef of the Year 2012

The British Culinary Federation (BCF) is inviting chefs from around the UK to enter its 2012 Chef of the Year competition.

The event, which has become a showcase for the UK’s finest culinary skills, is offering a share of £4,000 prize money. The winning chef will join an elite group of  past winners, including Michelin-starred chefs Luke Tipping and Matt Cheal from Simpsons, Birmingham and Simon Hulstone from The Elephant, Torquay.

The competition has again attracted a top line-up of judges for 2012 which includes Raymond Blanc, chef patron, Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons. Judges will be looking for chefs who can demonstrate precision in preparation, be inventive in presentation and produce an astounding taste using the ‘Best of British’ ingredients with great provenances.

The closing date for entries is Thursday 1 December, and the semi-final cook off will be held at University College Birmingham on 23 January, followed by the final, hosted by Brian Turner on 27 February at Hotelympia 2012. 

Peter Griffiths, president of the British Culinary Federation and Salon director of Hotelympia, said:  “The competition is open to all chefs and provides a fantastic opportunity for both new and established professionals to showcase their cutting-edge creativity and be recognised for their talent and culinary skills using the best of British home produced food”. 

“The interest and excitement for the competition has already started to build and we are delighted to be continuing our special partnership with Aubrey Allen, the chef’s butcher, which has sponsored the event since it was established in 1999”, he added.

Entry forms are now available, for further information and to apply please contact secretary@britishculinaryfederation.co.uk  tel: 01789 491218 or e-mail peter@salonculinaire.co.uk

By Katherine Alano