An end of term competition for cookery students produced impressive results.

Twelve students in the Level 2 Professional Cookery day release group were asked to prepare a two course menu using mackerel for the main course and puff pastry as the base for a dessert. These students cover an age range from 16 years old to 40 plus, and work at a range of establishments across the county.

Course Director Pauline Mandley said: "They all did fantastically well. I was extremely impressed with the quality of the dishes produced.”

The winner, Ben Ward, 28, who works at the West Wing at Ickworth House, was presented with a wonderful prize. Ben will have the opportunity to do a week’s work experience at The Lanesborough Hotel, Knightsbridge, working alongside celebrity chef Paul Gayler.  

Pauline Mandley had worked with Paul at the Dorchester Hotel, and when she contacted him to ask if he might offer a prize, she was amazed by his generosity.

Ben’s employer, Richard Wheeler, said that he has been really impressed by the standard on Ben’s work and his level of professionalism. Ben has achieved the Level 2 Professional Cookery qualification in record time due to his commitment to the course and the support he has received from the College.

Pauline said: “It was hard to pick a winner as all of the students produced high quality dishes, but Ben showed that he had taken great care when planning the dishes. He worked in an organised manner and produced excellent dishes, both for main course and dessert.”

Second place was awarded to Luke Ames, 17, from Clarice House whose score was only one point less than Ben’s. Third place went to Johnathon Cooper, also 17, who works at The Donkey at Hadleigh.

The competition was judged by Course Director Pauline Mandley, chef/ lecturer Roger Carter and Angela Gant, Head of Employer Responsiveness, Business & Hospitality.