A young chef who wowed judges with his skills in the kitchen has finished second in a national competition.
Matt Long, head chef at The Raglan Arms in Llandenny, was named runner-up in the British Beer and Pub Association (BBPA) and the All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group’s Parliamentary Pub Chef of the Year competition.
The prestigious new award sought nominations from MPs for a pub chef in their constituency who provide an excellent food offering.
Mr Long, 28, was nominated by Monmouth MP David Davies and chosen as a successful finalist from more than 120 entries.
He took part in a cook-off event in London earlier this year and came runner-up in the Young Pub Chef of the Year category.
“To be selected as a finalist in the cook-off is recognition of what I am striving to achieve in the way of very high standards and quality of food served at The Raglan Arms,” said Mr Long, a former executive head chef for the Sahara Force India Formula One team.
“It is good to see The Raglan Arms get the praise it deserves.”
Judith Brown, joint-owner of The Raglan Arms, said: “Matthew is a very experienced and accomplished head chef and we are extremely lucky to have him working with us.”
Mr Davies, who visited The Raglan Arms today, added: “This competition has confirmed that high quality food is far from the preserve of restaurants but is available in many pubs up and down the country.
“Matt is a huge talent in the sector and he has transformed the dining experience at The Raglan Arms.
“To reach the final stage of this award is no mean feat and it is a pleasure to congratulate him in person on a remarkable achievement.
“Matt is a shining example of a great British pub chef and goes to show what a rewarding career option catering can be for young people.”