Catering students ‘net’ silver medals at national seafood competition

John Hunt and Marc Rothwell with their silver medals

Two catering students from Hopwood Hall College took second place at the grand final of the UK Young Seafood Chef of the Year competition 2012.

John Hunt and Marc Rothwell, who are both from Rochdale and studying VRQ level 2, qualified for the grand final following months of competing in regional heats across the country.

This is the first time that Hopwood Hall College has participated in the national competition, which is now in its 12th year, and the boys were both thrilled to be a part of such a major competition. The grand final, which was held at Grimsby College, was sponsored by Young’s as well as other major fisheries.

John and Marc worked together to create their three award winning seafood dishes:

- Tempura langoustine tails, beetroot risotto & langoustine oil;

- Supreme of salmon with warm tartare sauce & Sarsons vinegar gel;

- Plaice ‘Duglere’ with asparagus, peas, broad beans & cocotte potatoes.

The boys’ tutor, Bryan Townson, said: “These two students are stars in the making and we’re all very proud of what they’ve achieved. The lads have shown such interest and passion for learning and creating delicious dishes that they more than earned their place in the competition. They had an amazing day and were absolutely thrilled to take second place.”