Young chefs are set to put their culinary skills to the test in the 2023 Exmoor Young Chef competition.

Ahead of the contest professional chefs will be visiting local schools to talk to students about the hospitality industry.

Entrants will be short-listed to a group of 10 finalists, who will go on to prepare a three course meal for a panel of judges.

The meals will be cooked under strict competition rules at West Somerset College, in Minehead, on Saturday, October 7.

The competition is being run in collaboration between a number of groups, including Visit Exmoor and Butlins.

Competition judge Max Lawrence said: "We’ll be looking for passion for the area’s local produce and signs of developing kitchen skills.  The confidence young people gain by taking part in a competition like this is immeasurable and for the finalists it provides the opportunity to gain experience in the industry.”

Perran Clark from Braunton, who won last year's inaugural competition, said: "Entering competitions is a way to challenge yourself personally and professionally.

"It enables you to be critiqued and take that feedback and learn from it. Not only do you get to meet new people within all sectors of the hospitality industry it opens up opportunities. You get to be creative and showcase your skills and ideas.” 

Katrina Munro, from Exmoor National Park Authority, said “The hospitality industry is a vital part of our rural economy, and it can provide an exciting and rewarding career path for anyone with a passion for food, cooking and great service.

"Through the competition, we can shine a light on local producers and kitchens where amazing food is being prepared every day for our residents and visitors.

"The competition and the film show these aspiring chefs how rewarding and creative a career can be in the hospitality industry on Exmoor. With the abundance of quality local produce and passionate local chefs, the food scene on Exmoor is exciting and vibrant.” 

The closing date to apply to take part in the contest is the first of June.

For further information contact Max Lawrence on 07860 135271 or email [email protected]