The annual award is made in recognition for outstanding achievement on the Master Chefs' advanced training diploma course. The scheme acknowledges the hard work and dedication required by any young chef who enters the catering trade at the top end of the market and the high level of skill they need to acquire. The prize for winning this prestigious award is two weeks at the Johnson & Wales University in Charlotte, North Carolina. "The University is recognised as one of the leaders of culinary excellence in the USA, and is a great networking tool for young and like minded chefs," says Paul Da-Costa-Greaves, head chef and owner of The Galley Restaurant. On returning to the UK, Ed will hold the title of this year's 'Apprentice of The Year' which in itself has its rewards. "I'm extremely pleased with my achievement and really looking forward to my trip to America. I've grown to be quite passionate about my cooking, certainly over the last two years, and now, having the opportunity to do something that other sous chefs will never do, has made me even more determined to make a successful career out of my passion," says Ed. The Master Chefs of Great Britain was formed in 1980 to provide a forum for the exchange of culinary ideas and to further the profession through training and guidance to young chefs.