A TALENTED cook at a Bromsgrove care home has reached the final round of a Chef of the Year competition.

Lorraine Robinson, second chef at Chandler Court in Recreation Road, competed against culinary talent from across the country in Care UK's national contest.

To secure her place as a finalist, Lorraine was challenged to prepare a two-course lunch, designed for four care home residents, in 90 minutes.

She opted for a sea bream main course, served with a celeriac and chorizo sauce, roasted butternut squash, steamed carrots, courgette batons and a herb potato and onion rosti, followed by a warm honey and fig tart with cheesy chocolate cream for dessert.

The dishes were presented to a panel of judges which also included residents, who scored each meal on their presentation, nutrition, use of products, taste and texture.

Lorraine said: "I am delighted that my cooking has been praised by the judges. The level of competition was really high this year, with some impressive skills on display, but I knew my dishes were very popular with the residents at Chandler Court, so I was confident the judges would appreciate them too.

“I love experimenting and creating new dishes for the residents to enjoy, and the final round should be the perfect opportunity to showcase my creativity.”

The four finalists will compete to be crowned Care UK's Chef of the Year in November.

Chandler Court manager Joanne Gill said: "The Chef of the Year competition is a brilliant opportunity for the chefs at Care UK to showcase their skills and expertise.

"We are very lucky to count Lorraine as one of our team members here at Chandler Court, and everyone is thrilled to see her culinary talent being recognised.

"We all have our fingers crossed that she will walk away as the winner.”