UK Pastry Team line-up confirmed for World Pastry Cup
Javier Mercado has joined Barry Johnson and Nicolas Belorgey to form the UK Pastry Team in the build-up to next year’s World Pastry Cup in Lyon.
The team, which is led by Martin Chiffers, will also see Andrew Blas continue in his role as candidate reserve.
Speaking about his return to the team, Javier said: “I was honoured when asked by President Martin Chiffers to represent the country as the third team member for Coupe du Monde de la Patisserie and to represent the country one last time.
“Having competed and represented Great Britain at the World Pastry Cup in both 2011 and 2013, I bring to the team experience, a good work ethic and a positive outlook.”
The complete structure of the team is as follows:
President/Team Coach: Martin Chiffers – International Consultant Patissier – Chocolatier/ “Chiffers” Mitsukoshi Ginza Tokyo
Team Captain/Candidate Chocolate: Barry Johnson – Principal Chocolatier Rococo Chocolates Ltd
Candidate Sugar: Javier Mercado – Patisserie Teaching Chef – Le Cordon Bleu London
Candidate Ice: Nicolas Belorgey – Patisserie Teaching Chef – Le Cordon Bleu London
Candidate Reserve: Andrew Blas – Executive Pastry Chef - Café Royal Hotel
Earlier this year, Team UK retained the European Pastry Cup to earn their spot in next January’s showpiece event in Lyon as they used the theme of ‘Lion King’ to produce two fruit desserts, nine identical desserts and a sugar and chocolate sculpture.
Speaking about the shape of the team, Martin Chiffers said: “I am confident that the selected team will work hard to represent the UK at the world’s most prestigious and recognised pastry competition Coupe du Monde de la Patisserie 2015 and I am looking forward to the amazing challenge ahead.
“It’s great to have Javier Mercado back on the team and with Javier and Nicolas having already experienced this challenge together in 2013 it only adds to our strength.”
