Howing Lai (Café Royal Hotel, London), Biju Joshwa (London Marriott County Hall), Zac Dearden (Design House Restaurant, Halifax), Andrew Saupe (Combined Services Culinary Arts Team, Winchester), Paul O’Malley (Culcreuch Castle, Fintry, Scotland) and Louise Jayne Rigden (Royal Opera House – Company of Cooks) will now face the judges at a live cook-off on September 25.

UK’s National Chocolate Master Ruth Hinks worked closely with fellow judges Cherish Finden (The Langham), Joe Lutrario (Restaurant Magazine), Sheila Eggleston (Stockpot Magazine) and Julia Jones (head of marketing at Mövenpick Ice Cream) to whittle the entries down to these six finalists.

Their decision was based on five criteria, including innovation, well matched flavours, demonstration of culinary skills and artistic merit, as well as suitability for serving in top restaurants and hotels.

Officially recognised as one of the world’s top five chocolatiers and pastry chefs, Hinks has been in the industry for more than 25 years. Her success at competitions nationally and internationally has brought her widespread acclaim and industry recognition, making her an obvious choice of judge for Mövenpick Gourmet Dessert Chef of the Year 2014.

Hinks commented: “With so many exciting recipes to choose from, it was really difficult to narrow the entries down to just six finalists. For me, recipes that shone were not only visually appealing, they showcased the entrant’s ability to pair flavours, use their imagination and integrate Mövenpick ice cream or sorbet effectively within their dish. I personally think all six chefs are in a strong position of winning the competition, so it’s definitely set to be an exciting final.”

The finalists will meet the judges at the cook-off, where one lucky winner will be crowned Mövenpick Gourmet Dessert Chef of the Year 2014. The winner will also receive a luxury two-day spa break in Edinburgh, along with an exclusive, one-on-one chocolate showpiece course with Hinks at the Cocoa Black Chocolate & Pastry School in Peebles. Two runners up will also win a course at her acclaimed school and an overnight stay in Edinburgh.

For full details, visit www.moevenpick-icecreamcompetition.co.uk.