Master of Culinary Arts 2017 will be awarded to a chef, a pastry chef and a restaurant manager that has displayed advanced technical skill, broad knowledge of modern cooking and professional ability. 

John Williams MBE, executive chef at The Ritz London and chairman of the Royal Academy of Culinary Arts, said: “The MCA is the highest honour in the catering industry; it examines the very finest details in service, pastry and kitchen and is the pinnacle of each discipline.

“For me, a Master of Culinary Arts is a person who strives for perfection in their profession and has the grace and elegance to promote our craft to the next generation.”

Master of Culinary Arts, established in 1987, will this year celebrate 30 years since its creation. Previous winners include celebrity chef Antony Worrall-Thompson and Benoit Blin, chef patissier at Belmond Le Manoir aux Quat'Saisons.

Candidates must have at least 10 years experience in their trade, including three years at a senior level.

Entries for the Master of Culinary Arts close on Friday 31st March and finals for the three categories are to take place throughout September. A presentation dinner on Thursday, 5th October is to be held at Claridges in Mayfair, London.