A CARE home near Filton is celebrating after its head chef whisked his way into the finals of a prestigious national award.
Darren Nelson, head chef at Trymview Hall in Westbury-on-Trym has been shortlisted in the National Association of Care Catering Awards 2023.
Having wowed the judges with his attention to detail and flawless presentation in the regional semi-finals, Darren is in the running for the coveted title of care chef of the year.
Darren has been a chef for 22 years, the last four of which he has spent with Care UK.
Colleagues say Darren is a ‘highly experienced’ and ‘dedicated chef’, prioritising the individual preferences of residents and personalising the menu accordingly.
The NACC awards is the UK's longest running care chef competition, challenging people working in the care sector to create innovative recipes and meeting the needs of their clients.
Darren said: “It’s an honour to be representing Care UK at this level.
“I take a lot of pride in my job and playing my part in ensuring the residents at Trymview Hall are well cared for.
“I am both excited and incredibly nervous for the finals, but I feel ready!”
Nicole Anderson, home manager at Trymview Hall, said: “We’re thrilled that Darren’s hard work is being recognised nationally.
“Everyone at Trymview Hall agrees that he is an outstanding member of the team who continues to go above and beyond in his work.
“Darren continually puts aside time to spend with residents, building relationships with each of them in order to expand his knowledge on their preferences, personalities and dietary needs.
“On behalf of everyone at Trymview Hall, I would look to say a big thank you to Darren for his dedication to the team and residents, and wish him the best of luck in the finals!”
The NACC final is due to take place on October 3.
Sue Cawthray, national chair of the NACC, said: "Congratulations to the finalists of the NACC Care Chef of the Year competition 2023!
“Events like the Care Chef of the Year competition, the NACC works tirelessly to raise awareness of the amazing, rewarding work and valuable contribution of chefs and caterers in the care sector.”
For more information on Trymview Hall, call 0117 911 6989, or email nicole.anderson@careuk.com
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