This year the competition will be held at the Holborn Dining Room in London, where contestants will have to open 30 oysters against the clock in front of an audience before their platter is then judged for presentation by a panel of experts.

Regular competitor and winner of the contest, Sam Tamsanguan of Wiltons Restaurant in London, won last year, opening and perfectly presenting his 30 oysters in three minutes 23 seconds.

Professional oyster shuckers who fancy their chances in this year’s competition should contact Tess Robinson at Food Matters at [email protected] or by calling 0207 755 4944.

Entry to the competition is restricted to professional oyster shuckers and, as space is limited, the event will be restricted to ticket holders only with a strict door policy.