is it to cook in the Great British Menu kitchen alongside other chefs?
It’s quite funny because me and Ryan have worked together now for ten years. So it’s always been me and him and you appreciate that if Ryan’s not there, I feel like I’ve lost a leg and vice versa. So to actually get out of your own comfort zone and go and cook somewhere else, it gives you a bit of boost and a spring to your step.
What was the best part about being on Great British Menu 2018?
I think everything’s good, honestly. I felt the most emotion producing my main course because it meant a hell of a lot to me – you’ll know when you see the show.
Were there any negative parts to being on Great British Menu?
Not really – it’s just as hard as being in the kitchen. There’s early starts and late finishes. The production team are really good – they look after you a lot and make sure that you’re happy. Being in the North West, because it’s big personalities, we just hit it off straight away. We had a right laugh – singing in the kitchen to Beyonce, dancing around.
How did you find the criticism and being judged?
It’s one of those things where you’ve got to accept it. I think the first score was the one I was most nervous about, because it was my first dish up and my first time in the competition. The camera is fixed on you so that part is quite nervous.
Were you more nervous about being judged by the veteran chef or the judges?
Nobody likes to be criticised, do they? So I think when you get past that hurdle, it is nice to be critiqued because you know you can always do better, you learn where you make mistakes.
Would you take part in Great British Menu again?
If they asked me – 100% because I loved it. It’s a very proud feeling, not only to represent the NHS but also, I’m a proud Scouser. Everyone badmouths Liverpool but we all stick together.
Would you encourage your peers, colleagues and chef friends to take part in a competition like Great British Menu?
I’d recommend it to anybody. If you’re good enough and they want you, just do it. It can be quite scary but there’s a good theme behind it so you’ll never feel alone.
