A CHEF from Gidleigh Park has been named as a finalist in the South West Chef of the Year 2015 competition.

Steffan Davis, a commis chef at the prestigious hotel, was named as one of four finalists in the young professional class of the contest after a strong performance in the semi-finals.

Chefs were given a list of locally-supplied ingredients to use in the semi-finals including whole partridge, gilt head bream, whole chicken, scallops in the shell, pork tenderloin and whole sea trout. Each semi-finalist created a two-course menu for three people comprising a starter and main course.

Michael Caines, co-founder and judge, said: ‘What a privilege it was to witness the exceptional and up-and-coming culinary talent we have here in the South West. Along with my fellow judges, I tasted some creative, innovative and delicious food. I believe South West Chef of the Year continues to help raise the standard, inspire a next generation of chefs and spread the word about the quality of food and drink we have here in this region.’

The final of the competition takes place on Thursday, October 29 at Exeter College with the awards ceremony the same evening. South West Chef of the Year is now in its 12th year and is the only regional competition to celebrate the culinary inventiveness and proficiency of junior, professional and amateur cooks in the region.