Cheshire College – South & West hosted the final of the returning Young North West Chef of the Year at its Ellesmere Port Campus, bringing together the region’s brightest emerging culinary talent for a showcase of creativity and technical excellence. 

Organised by Taste Hospitality Recruitment in partnership with founder Brian Mellor, the renowned competition returned after a five-year hiatus, reaffirming its status as one of the North West’s leading platforms for aspiring chefs.  

The final saw talented young chefs from across Cheshire, Cumbria, Greater Manchester, Lancashire and Merseyside compete. Finalists were challenged to produce an exceptional three-course menu for two, while showcasing a commitment to seasonal and regional produce. 

Helen Nellist, Deputy Principal and Deputy CEO of Cheshire College said: 

“We are incredibly proud to host the return of the Young Northwest Chef of the Year competition. It’s great to celebrate the exceptional talent emerging across the region and highlight the importance of creating opportunities for young people to develop industry-leading skills and experience.” 

“Our students benefited enormously from being involved in such a high-profile event, working alongside respected chefs and hospitality professionals. It truly reflects our commitment to delivering outstanding career-focused education and strengthening partnerships with industry to help shape the future workforce.” 

The event transformed Cheshire College’s Ellesmere Port Campus into a vibrant centre of culinary excellence, with hospitality and catering students supporting the competition throughout the day and gaining valuable industry experience alongside leading professionals.  

Performing arts students from the College also delivered a live performance during the evening awards ceremony, showcasing the breadth of talent across the College. 

The winner of the competition, Hope Ryall-Thurlow, secured first place with an outstanding performance throughout the final. Hope has also earned a place in the semi-final of the Young National Chef of the Year, organised by the Craft Guild of Chefs — an opportunity widely recognised as a stepping stone to national culinary success. 

The return of Young Northwest Chef of the Year marks an exciting new chapter for the region’s hospitality industry, offering young chefs a unique platform to gain recognition, develop their skills and take the next step towards successful culinary careers.