Founded in partnership with acclaimed chef Michael Caines in 2004, the event has grown to become one of the most respected culinary competitions in the UK, attracting top chefs, aspiring cooks, and food enthusiasts from across the region.

It has seen many previous winners, including Elly Wentworth, Simon Hulstone, Scott Paton and Matt Mason, go on to have amazing careers, winning many more accolades, including coveted Michelin stars.

Michael Caines MBE DL, who is chef/patron at Lympstone Manor, said: “The 20th anniversary of the South West Chef of the Year competition is a testament to the incredible talent and passion for food that exists in our region.

“Over the past two decades, we have witnessed remarkable growth and innovation in the culinary landscape of the south west, and the competition has played a pivotal role in recognising and celebrating the achievements of our talented chefs and cooks. It is also an amazing opportunity to showcase the incredible food larder here in the west country.”

Last year’s South West Chef of the year overall winner was Andrew Jenkinson, now at The Olive Tree in Bath. Entries are invited in five categories:

• Professional Chef (for those of any age working as sous chef or above)
• Young Professional Chef (for those aged 19-24 and working in any position up to junior sous chef)
• Student/Apprentice Chef (aged 19-24)
• Home Cook (aged 16+)
• Junior Chef (aged 11-16)

 For more information, visit www.southwestchef.co.uk