Finishing Touches, which is sponsored by McDougalls, is a competition organised by LACA in association with the Craft Guild of Chefs. The competition is aimed at staff employed in any aspect of education catering capable of producing craft pieces.
The competition provides entrants with the opportunity to show off their skills, which would not normally be seen during their everyday profession. Each Best in Class winner received £100 and the Best in Show winner won a further £250.
It was a successful day for Impact Food Group as Rebecca Britton, Mandy Saunders and Erin Ward won Best in Class accolades with the latter winning two of them.
Highlighting exceptional craftsmanship, innovation and artistry, this year’s coveted Best in Show title was awarded to Rebecca Britton for her outstanding piece in the 50% Fruit Category that captivated the judges with its originality, attention to detail, and impeccable execution.
Steve Munkley, vice president of the Craft Guild of Chefs, said: “Another great Finishing Touches competition with LACA. Every year we see the creativity and technical skills on display increase and improve. Rebecca Britton is a very worthy winner of this years ‘Best in Show’. The judges were impressed with her culinary artistry.”
2025 Finishing Touches full results:
- 50% Fruit Dessert: Rebecca Britton, Impact Food Group (gold, Best in Show winner)
- Biscuits: Catheryne Duffin, Taylor Shaw (silver)
- Cake Suitable for Special Diet: Rachel Kirk, Taylor Shaw (gold)
- Cheesecake: Cathryn Wilson, Chartwells (gold)
- Cupcakes: Nikki Barnard, Norse Group (gold)
- Decorated Celebration Cake: Mandy Saunders, Impact Food Group (gold)
- Decorated Novelty Cake: Erin Ward, Impact Food Group (bronze)
- Filled and/or Covered Sponge, Gateau or Cake: Jean Potter, HCL (gold)
- Flat Bas Relief Plaque (New for 2025): Katrina Denbigh, HCL (bronze)
- Individual Fruit Tarts: Joana Gaspar, Taylor Shaw (silver)
- Tray Bake: Tania Machado, Norse Group (silver)
- Vegetarian Quiche: Erin Ward, Impact Food Group (silver)