Young Chef District Final Winner

Young Chef District Final Winner Rebecca Hall

District 1020 Young Chef Finals

The bright new look for this year's Young Chef final came through the support of "Scotch Beef"(Quality Meat Scotland). The 8 qualifiers sported their new aprons for the presentations at the end of their two hour cook-off. A big thankyou to "Scotch Beef" for also sponsoring the impressive glass awards for the top three.

The event was held again at the excellent venue of West Lothian College, Livingston. Andy McDougall, a teaching chef at the college, again took on the judging challenge alongside Lockerbie Rotarian, Ian Potts. Ian was likewise a teaching chef in hospitality. With distinct reflections of "Master Chef", the judging of three courses from each of the 8 contestants was not an enviable task. The chefs are scrutinised throughout the cooking time and many aspects are taken in to consideration. It is not just a case of that looks good and tastes good!

The competition started out in 15 clubs - an increase from last year and already there are new enquiries for next year.Over 100 youngsters entered, many of whom were S1/S2 students. Two qualifiers from each club then proceed ed to area level with District their aim for round three.

District Governor, Kate Keter was greatly impressed by the standard of the whole competition and was delighted to present victorious Rebecca Hall with her award.

Rebecca, a 14 year old student from Langholm Academy represented the Rotary Club of Langholm. We hope the sponsors forgive her for the lack of beef but her menu was an absolute delight --- Fish Consomme with Beetroot and Mushroom Tortellini.

The main course was Sea Bream with Butternut Squash Fondant and Fish Cream followed by Rebecca's exciting interpretation of Black Forest. Emma Hay (15 years old) gave Kirkcudbright the Runner-up position for the second year in a row. Bethany Hunter from Haddington picked up the award for third place. The other District finalists were from Livingston, Longniddry, Peebles, Polmont andThornhill. All eight were calm and confident Young Chefs.

With the indication that Young Chef is increasing in popularity, we keep our fingers crossed that "Scotch Beef" will continue to give us support.

Rebecca and Emma now go forward to the Regional event which is to be held in Anniesland College, Glasgow on 15th March. Our very best wishes from District 1020 goes out to both of them.

Judges, the 8 finalists, Theresa Douglas( New Generations Chair), Jean Lennie( Young Chef Convener) and D.G. Kate.