Presented every four years, the MCA is the ‘UK’s highest culinary honour’, conferred upon those who have displayed mastery of the complex and specialised knowledge and skills in the culinary arts which are required to be a first-class chef, pastry chef, or for restaurant management and service.

The MCA is an award rather than a competition, all or none of the entrants can achieve this coveted prize depending on their ability to reach the required standard. To reach the Final is a significant achievement in itself.

Chef finalists include:

• George Blogg, executive head chef, Gravetye Manor
• Raj Holuss, head chef, Roux at Skindles
• Spencer Metzger, head chef, The Ritz London
• Tom Scade, executive chef, The Vineyard Hotel and Spa
• James Sleep, executive sous chef, White’s Club

Pastry chef finalists:

• Alistair Birt, senior head pastry chef, Harrods
• Jamie Houghton, senior sous chef, Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons

Restaurant management & service finalists:

• Thomas Borghi, restaurant manager, The Lanesborough, London
• Daniel Crump, proprietor/director, The Greyhound, Beaconsfield
• Antonino Forte, restaurant manager, Galvin at Windows
• Devid Isabella, director of food and beverage, The Goring
• Peter Prusaczyk, food and beverage manager, Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons