A talented team of Loughborough College cooks have won a prestigious award after impressing judges in the final of the Zest Quest Asia competition.
The College team, consisting of Sophie Jones, Caitlin McGrath and Riley Monk, went head-to-head in a live cook-off with five other colleges in the final of Zest Quest Asia 2022 after winning their regional heat.
While they didn’t win the overall prize, the team was awarded the Andrew Bennett MBE Award for Best Teamwork. The award is named after Andrew who was a multi-award winning chef, judge and trainer who sadly passed away in 2021.
Darren Creed, Curriculum Manager for hospitality and catering at Loughborough College, said: “We’re so extremely proud of the team for reaching the final. To walk away with the best teamwork award is sensational and we’re delighted for them.
“Competing at this high level really tests the mettle of our students and is a vital part of their development. Sophie, Caitlin and Riley rose to the challenge and have done themselves and the College proud.
“The Andrew Bennett Award is a big one in our industry as he sadly passed away last year after being such a massive figure in judging, teaching and cooking across many competitions as lead judge.”
The team produced a Filipino menu, with a range of creative dishes made from British produce during the final which was held at the Hilton London Heathrow Airport Terminal 5 on 8th April.
Zest Quest Asia has grown in prestige to become a fixture of the college competition calendar.