Toque d’Or finalists revealed

Nestlé Professional has announced the 12 talented students who are advancing to the finals of its prestigious Toque d’Or competition, following a competitive round of action at the recent national heats in York. Under the watchful eye of expert judges including chef Tom Booton, the finalists will compete across four days of exciting challenges for a once-in-a-lifetime culinary adventure in Italy this July.  

The front- and back-of-house (BOH) students who will be competing at the finals in May are Bobby Bendle and Leigh Flashman from North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College; Cody Wragg, West Nottinghamshire College; Erin Rose Coates, North Hertfordshire College; Katie Blundell, Hugh Baird College; Victoria Royer, Coleg Cambria; Freddie McCreath, North Hertfordshire College; Noah Richards-Layfield, Cheshire College South and West; Olivia Cartlidge, The Sheffield College; Ruby Goodens, East Riding College; Serin Hassan, Westminster Kingsway College; and Loughborough College, Thomas Brassington. 

‘Passion and energy’
BOH head judge Booton said: “The passion, energy and determination on display during the heats was incredible. I enjoyed watching the competitors step up to the challenge and bring their own style and creativity to the competition.

“I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations to each competitor; whether you made it through to the finals or not, you should be incredibly proud of what you’ve achieved. To those advancing, this is your chance to showcase your learnings and skills even further.”

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