Young Ayr College chefs aim to be crowned kings

Feb 13 2009

A TOP team of student chefs are aiming to be crowned culinary kings.

The Ayr College stars beat off stiff competition to win the Scottish heat of the leading Brakes cookery contest.

And they’ll now face the cream of other UK college kitchens at a tense final on March 4.

Stuart Ritchie, Nicola McDonald and Alan Fraser made up the team, who produced a winning menu featuring local and regional ingredients.

William Ferguson, Ayr College hospitality manager, said: “The Brakes competition has always been seen as the best ‘pure cooking’ competition for colleges.

“Ayr College’s record in the competition is exceptional and we are so proud of this year’s team who are keeping the flag flying by winning this year’s Scottish heat.

“The young team have blended into a tight and supportive unit and shown enthusiasm, motivation and no shortage of talent.

“The hard work, determination and nurturing skills shown by our curriculum leader Norman Robertson play a huge part in this.

“Norman has a great ability to spot talent and has succeeded once again with this team. Our excellent kitchen facilities also play a vital role in our students’ development and our college restaurant, which is open to the public, gives our students great first-hand experience.”

The finals will take place at Glasgow’s SECC as part of the annual ScotHot culinary exhibition. The world renowned exhibition provides a platform for chefs from all over the UK to present their skills to their peers.

If the Ayr team win this year, not only will the college have made it three years in a row, but they will also take home a set of global knives and will get a five day work experience with Christopher Basten, head chef at County Hall Restaurant in London’s five star Mariott Hotel.

To book a meal at Ayr College’s training restaurant, call Tom Walker on 01292 293511.