Toque d'Or 2021 competition finalists revealed

Nestlé Professional has announced the 12 finalists in this year’s Toque d'Or Competition.

The first heat saw 112 back and front of house students, apprentices and young professionals compete in a virtual competition. The final 12 will now compete in person, government guidelines permitting, in the Grand Finals from 28 June to 2 July. The winners will be announced during a live awards presentation on YouTube on 30 July.

The finalists

Back of house students

• Rebecca Bourne, University College Birmingham
• Sarah Morton, New City College London (Hackney)
• Liam Hanson, Blackpool and the Fylde College

Back of house apprentices/young professionals

• Amy Bilton, Sparrow Lewisham
• Dipen Patel, Just A Bite
• Kenny Markham, Burnt Lemon Chefs

Front of house students

• Sophie Taylor, Edinburgh College
• Jessica Nicholson, Sheffield College
• Marc Barker, Isle of Wight College

Front of house apprentices/young professionals

• Georgia Wheatley, University College Birmingham
• Bryn Williams, Whatley Manor hotel and spa
• Jess Metcalf, The Isle of Wight College

Katya Simmons, managing director of Nestlé Professional UK&I, said: “We were overwhelmed by the standard of competition in the heats, and I would like to congratulate everyone who has taken part. You are a credit to our industry.

"I am delighted for our finalists and I’m sure they are excited about what awaits them during the finals. Good luck to all!”

The competition will be judged by Louisa Ellis, winner of MasterChef: The Professionals – the Festive Knockout; educator and drinks expert Alison Taffs; and Robert Smith from Shuttersmith, as well as guest judges who are yet to be announced.