The Exmoor Young & Aspiring Chef event took place on Saturday 15 November at West Somerset Community College, celebrating the creativity, passion and promise of young culinary talent from across the region. Organised by Visit Exmoor as part of its Eat Exmoor commitment and the Centre of Excellence for Hospitality, the event shone a light on the area’s exceptional artisan suppliers and the next generation of chefs inspired by the landscapes, heritage and produce of Exmoor.
Rather than focusing on competing, the entrants showcased their abilities by producing memorable dishes for professional judges Phil Trevett and Rob Marshall of Somerset Larder. Their skill, discipline and flair demonstrated the strength of emerging talent within the region.
This year’s participants were Maddie Kennedy, aged fifteen, from South Molton Community College, Blake Jennings, aged sixteen, from West Somerset Community College, and Lauren Lewis, aged twenty one, from Somerset Larder. Each will now represent young culinary arts across Exmoor for the next twelve months, with a number of celebrations and engagements planned, including producing canapés at the Houses of Parliament. Their involvement will help raise the profile of local food producers and the richness of Exmoor’s food heritage.
The trophies were presented by Rachel Gilmour, MP for Tiverton & Minehead, who congratulated the entrants on their commitment and creativity.
Max Lawrence of Visit Exmoor said that the day was a celebration of the region’s wonderful producers and the culinary talent that brings their ingredients to life. He added that the event reflects the strength of Exmoor’s food culture and the importance of supporting young people who aspire to work in the industry.
Emma Thomasson, CEO of Visit Exmoor, said that the event demonstrated the energy, ambition and potential of young people across the region and the vital role they will play in shaping the future of Exmoor’s hospitality and food sectors. She highlighted the value of nurturing local talent, championing local suppliers and providing platforms where emerging chefs can grow in confidence and gain meaningful experience.
The event was generously sponsored by Bidfood and The Sausage Man, Hospitality Assured and Bridgwater and Taunton College Trust.
Editors’ Notes
The Exmoor Young & Aspiring Chef Showcase is delivered by Visit Exmoor as part of its Eat Exmoor commitment and the Centre of Excellence for Hospitality. The initiative celebrates young talent, local provenance and the exceptional artisan producers found across Exmoor. The event was supported by Bidfood, The Sausage Man and the Bridgwater and Taunton College Trust. For further information please contact: Max Lawrence businesssupport@visit-exmoor.co.uk 07860 135271
