Young Chef 2026 District Final

The East Midlands Young Chef final was held on Saturday 7th February at Loughborough College. 11 young people took part. The aim being to produce a two course meal for £18 or under.

The meals produced were all exceptional, the quality of the food and the presentation was beyond belief. The judges did indeed have a very, very difficult task.

The judges’ comments not only highlighted the quality and presentation of the meals but also praised the skills shown in the preparation of the food.

The judges were Dean Newman and Kirsty Newbitt who are both professional, Michelin starred, chefs working in Leicester.

The winner was Jemima Hall, sponsored by the Sleaford Kesteven Club, who is only just 13 years old.

The runner up was Bella Hammond, sponsored by the Grantham Club, who is 15 years old.

The quality and skill shown meant that it was very close between all 11 contestants. 

Both Jemima and Bella received embroidered chef’s jackets, and they will both progress to the Cluster final on Monday 9th March in Stafford.