HC-One proudly hosted the grand final of its very first Chef of the Year Competition at the prestigious Grand Hotel in York, celebrating the exceptional culinary talent and dedication of chefs working across its care homes throughout Britain.
Launched in February 2025, the competition was created to recognise the skill, passion, and creativity of HC-One chefs, who play a vital role in enriching residents’ lives through nutritious and high-quality meals. The initiative also highlighted the importance of food in promoting wellbeing and creating joyful dining experiences in care.
Following a rigorous three-stage selection process, including written submissions and a semi-final cook-off in Leeds, six outstanding chefs were selected to compete in the live grand final.
A panel of esteemed judges, including HC-One Executive Chef Chris Bonner, Compass UK&I Culinary Director Nick Vadis, and HC-One CEO James Tugendhat, evaluated the finalists on taste, nutrition, creativity, sustainability, and presentation.
Mark Evans, Chef Manager at Augustus Court Care Home in Garforth, Leeds, took home the top prize with his Greek-inspired Chicken Spanachi consisting of a stuffed chicken breast with spinach, feta, mint, and dill, served with a rich tomato sauce and yoghurt. Mark, who brings over 20 years of experience from Michelin Guide and AA Rosette kitchens, impressed judges with his culinary finesse and resident-focused approach.
Mark Evans, Chef Manager at HC-One’s Augustus Court Care Home, said:
“I’m incredibly honoured to be named HC-One’s first ever Chef of the Year. It’s a privilege to cook for our residents every day, and this recognition means the world. I’m especially thankful to my mentor Adele Pumford and the amazing team at Augustus Court for their unwavering support.”
Duane Ward Brown, Head Chef at Bradley Hall Care Home in Leicester, earned the runner-up spot with his Italian mousse-stuffed chicken breast. A former Army chef with experience catering high-profile events, Duane was praised for his technical skill, flavour balance, and suitability of the dish for a care setting.
Duane Ward Brown, Head Chef at HC-One’s Bradley Hall Care Home, commented:
“The whole experience has been incredible. To be recognised like this and feel the support from everyone, including the residents cheering me on, has been so rewarding.”
Beata (Betty) Matusiak, Chef at Harley Grange Care Home in Leicester, impressed with a traditional Polish dish of stock-padded cabbage leaves, roast garlic purée, asparagus, and tomato juice. Her dish stood out for its authenticity, elegance, and cultural flair.
Beata (Betty) Matusiak, Chef at HC-One’s Harley Grange Care Home, stated:
“It was an honour just to participate. I’m proud to have shared a little bit of Poland and to represent Harley Grange on such a special day.”
Roy Simpson, Head Chef at Balfarg Care Home in Glenrothes, Fife, won the Mystery Box Dessert Challenge, where finalists were given surprise ingredients like caramel, white chocolate, and KitKat sauce to create a dessert tailored for residents. Roy, with over 40 years of experience, crafted a raspberry and banana mousse with a Madeira cake base, showcasing thoughtful flavour pairings and a deep understanding of care-friendly nutrition.
Alongside the final, HC-One unveiled several key initiatives, including:
- The official launch of the HC-One Chef Academy, in partnership with Lifetime Training
- A mental health awareness session hosted by The Burnt Chef Project
- Product showcases from partners such as Middleton Foods, Lockhart Catering, and Nestlé/Garden Gourmet
- Introduction of HC-One’s Veteran Friendly Framework and innovations in texture-modified meals and dementia-friendly crockery
The event was made possible through generous sponsorship from EF-group, Nestlé, Unox, Contiquip, and Lockhart Catering.
Mark Meacham, Head of Catering and Housekeeping Support Services at HC-One, commented:
“Congratulations to all our finalists, and especially to Mark, Duane, and Betty, for their remarkable achievements. This competition showcases the extraordinary culinary talent in our care homes and our ongoing commitment to recognising the invaluable role our chefs play in improving residents’ lives.”
As winners of the HC-One Chef of the Year Competition, Mark, Duane and Betty will now go on to represent HC-One at the upcoming Champion of Champions event, where they will compete against winners from other leading care providers for the ultimate care catering title.
For more information about careers in care catering at HC-One, visit:
www.hc-one.co.uk/careers