Throughout June care chefs demonstrated their culinary skills at regional heats in the Midlands, South East, Scotland, North, South West and Wales. Steve Munkley, vice president of the Craft Guild of Chefs, was the chairman of judges.

Munkley said: “Once again, I have been impressed with the skills that I have seen and the total dedication these chefs demonstrate. The care sector is incredibly important and it is encouraging to see so many skilled chefs wanting to do their best for others.”

The 90 minute regional heats focused on the importance of food, nutrition and positive mealtime experiences as part of quality care. Entrants were challenged to create an appealing and delicious two-course menu (main and dessert) appropriate for people in a care setting.

The combined food cost for both courses should be no more than £4.50 per head based on three portions and it must be nutritionally balanced. The menu must also feature at least one product from Unilever Food Solutions’ sector-relevant catering range.

Neel Radia, national chair of the NACC, added: “Many congratulations to the finalists of the NACC Care Chef of the Year competition 2024. I agree with Steve, the calibre of entries for this competition remains incredibly high, and I would have been more than happy to eat any of the dishes that have been created across the regional heats.

“The Care Chef of the Year competition is a high point in the NACC year and is always an exciting event. It highlights and celebrates the care catering sector and the exceptional talent of our chefs. Last year’s winner, Brian Preston has been a marvellous ambassador for the sector throughout the year, appearing at a number of catering shows. Delicious, nutritious food and positive dining experiences are vital to quality care. I wish all the finalists the best of luck.”

The chefs had to demonstrate to the judges their full understanding of the meals they are providing for their residents whilst introducing their own flair through contemporary flavours. The finalists include:

• Dawn Louise Brown, Rossendale House Care Home
• Mark Burrow, Brandon House
• Nigel Cooke, Eastcote Park, Cinnamon Care Collection
• Matthew Dodds, Foodbuy Group
• Adrien Henard, Chandler Court, Care UK
• Anna Koziarska, Auchtercrag Care Home, Meallmore Ltd
• Darren Nelson, Trymview Hall, Care UK
• Maks Nikolaev Parvulav, Renaissance Care
• Robert Rofe, Roswell Court, Radish
• Samuel Sewell, Wellington Vale Care Home, Cinnamon Care Collection
• Carmine Tarquilio, Mardy Park Resource Centre, Monmouthshire County Council
• Paul Wright, Prospect House, Mysing

The NACC Care Chef of the Year competition is supported by main sponsor Unilever Food Solutions and long-standing event sponsor The Worshipful Company of Cooks.