Michelin dreams for Jack

Jack Whittick, L’enclume restaurant work experience

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Jack Whittick, 18, from Rochdale has been demonstrating his talent in the kitchen after completing a work experience placement at a Michelin starred restaurant and becoming a finalist in a national dessert competition.

The Hopwood Hall College student has just finished a two week work experience placement at the prestigious L’Enclume restaurant and hotel in Cartmel, in the Lake District. The restaurant, which specialises in organic local produce, is the proud holder of two Michelin stars and is also a five star AA rosette establishment.

Jack explains: “It was really daunting to go into such an accomplished, professional, kitchen but a brilliant experience. The days were long but I enjoyed the buzzy atmosphere and how busy it was. I think the experience has really helped me and I feel a lot more grown up because of it. It’s also confirmed for me that this is the type of cooking I want to do!”

To top a great month off, Jack also took part in the Association Culinaire Francaise’s (ACF) Chocolate dessert of the year competition. Jack impressed judges with his delicious ‘black forest gateau mousse cone surprise’, for which he was awarded fourth place. Claire Clark, MBE, a master patissier and the competition’s head judge said: “I want to congratulate Jack on being a finalist in the competition and for all his hard work and dedication. Jack’s skills were exceptional and shined through on the plate.”

Jack’s tutor at the College, Bryan Townson added: “We are really pleased with Jack’s progress and attitude. He always shows interest in his work and is very determined to succeed. He’s a pleasure to teach and I’m sure he will go far in his career.”