Young UCB chefs are celebrating an extraordinary achievement after winning silver and bronze at one of the toughest culinary competitions in the world.  

They were part of the UCB-sponsored team which represented England at the Junior Culinary Olympics in Germany.

Working under the guidance of UCB chef lecturers and mentors Mathew Shropshall and Richard Taylor, the team comprised Jack Gameson, UCB; Elliot Lawn, UCB; Gregory Evans, UCB; Thomas Kirkby, Adam’s restaurant, Birmingham; Nathan Lane, Simpsons restaurant, Birmingham; Edward Marsh, Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa, Wiltshire.

Together they secured silver in the Edible Buffet and bronze in the Restaurant of Nations.

Professor Ray Linforth, UCB’s Vice-Chancellor and Principal, said: “This is a fantastic achievement. It means our students are performing at the very highest level. It takes unflagging commitment to win a competition of this stature.”

BCF Competition Organiser Lee Corke said the Olympics, held every four years, is the largest culinary event in the world, with more than 30 national teams, 20 junior national teams and many other chefs competing both regionally and individually. 

England’s Senior Team, which was also sponsored by UCB, won Gold medal in the Restaurant of Nations and Bronze in the International Buffet.

Peter Griffiths, President of the British Culinary Federation and UCB Governor, said: “One of the main aims of the British Culinary Federation is to encourage and support young chefs to strive for excellence in their chosen profession. With the responsibility of organising England’s junior national team the BCF has been delighted with the progress of these young chefs. The training they have received both at UCB and out in industry has been exceptional, resulting in winning silver and bronze medals in a very tough and competitive arena. They are a credit to themselves and their country.”

Chef Shropshall, National Junior Team England Manager, said: "The last three years have seen members of The National Junior Team England Squad undertake practice runs, Michelin star work experience, competitions, team meetings and master classes in preparation for the Culinary Olympics 2016. We are very happy with the team’s progress, which is the best England has achieved to date at the Culinary Olympics. Without the support of sponsors, UCB, BCF and families, it would not be possible - so thank you!" 

The Culinary Olympics took place in Erfurt from October 22 to 25.