Norfolkline chefs push the boat out to prepare an award winning feast

Dover, April 9th 2009 

Les Potts from Eastry and Robert Bately from Whitfield beat stiff contenders to take top prizes in Norfolkline Chef of the Year competition

Two local residents from Dover are celebrating today after being recognised for their culinary skills and taking second and third place in a national Chef competition organised by leading channel ferry operators, Norfolkline.

Les Potts from Eastry and Robert Bately from Whitfield serve ferry passengers on Norfolkline’s Dover to Dunkirk.  Up until now, their cordon bleu skills have remained under the radar, but the judges were wowed by their tasty and interesting menus and awarded them second and third place respectively.

The ‘Master Chef’ style cook-off took place at leading catering school, Westminster College, whose former students include Jamie Oliver, Ainsley Harriott and Anthony Worral Thompson.  All of the chefs that took part were asked to devise and cook a menu which they thought would work onboard Norfolkline Ferries.

Competition was of a high standard as finalists were given only three hours to produce a three course meal while being judged on menu design, technical skills, time management, food taste and presentation.

First place was awarded to John Cassin from Liverpool who created a menu consisting of Smoked Salmon, Lamb and Tart Tatain, but Les only narrowly missed out with his menu of seafood risotto, noissettes of lamb and apple dumplings.

Richard’s deservedly took third place for his offering of salmon and asparagus crown, lamb and wild mushroom parcel followed with vanilla and blueberry sponge, after battling with John and Les throughout the three hour competition to be in with a chance of finishing in the top three. 

Commenting on the competition, Les said:

“All of the chefs put in a huge amount of effort on the day, and the competition was really stiff. I was pleased to make it to the final, let alone finish in second place. Working in the kitchens on the ferries can be challenging at times but with a great team, great menu and great customers it’s something I love being part of.”

Gemma Griffin, General Manager - Fleet Crewing at Norfolkline commented:

“After the success of last year we felt it was a good idea to once again celebrate the chefs that work on the channel and Irish Sea routes. The standards are very high and I would like to congratulate Les and Robert for getting to the final. The catering we provide on board our ferries is a part of the experience in sailing with us, and we pride ourselves on a tasty menu using locally sourced produce.”