Wessex Mead (Trowbridge) Rotary Club

The John of Gaunt School-Trowbridge and St Augustine's Catholic College entered the Rotary Club of Wessex Mead (Trowbridge) Young Chef Competition.  The theme was a 2 course Healthy meal for 2 people for £9.50.

Please see article in the Wiltshire Times

School Finals took place in early June and Rotarian Caroline Smyth took part in the judging; the top 2 students from each school were offered a session each at Red or White Restaurant, Trowbridge, to work with the Chef there and experience a busy kitchen before the final yesterday.  I spoke to each of the contestants and they really valued this experience, Red or White treated them to an enjoyable and unique time. 

The final yesterday ( 10th June 2009) at the college was very successful.  Steve Lloyd, Lecturer from Trowbridge college and Vito Scaduto, owner of Red or White were the judges.  They praised all the students for their food quality and gave some constructive criticism.  They were very impressed with the standards.  

Each of the students were given chef's whites with their names on to keep and wear whilst cooking; the finalists were each presented with a Cookbook; all the contestants in the competition were given a certificate each to go in their personal achievement file. 

The winner received an engraved silver tray, and the opportunity to go through to the Rotary 1200 district heat next year.  Vito Scaduto also offered the winner the opportunity to spend a day in his kitchens with his chef and serve their menu to paying guests.

The winner was year 9 student Abbie Bygrave from St Augustines College. She cooked Salmon Fillet with a Lemon and Dill Sauce, steamed baby veg; Cappuccino Cup - a light coffee mousse topped with creme fraiche and an almond biscuit.