England’s National Senior and Junior Culinary Teams selected

The British Culinary Federation is pleased to announce that England’s National Senior and Junior Culinary Teams have been selected and registered for the Culinary World Cup in Luxembourg 2026.

This world-famous gastronomic event was first organised by Vatel Luxembourg in 1972 and held at the Casino of the European Parliament.

The event then followed every four years, firstly at the Municipal Circle of the City of Luxembourg and since 1978 at the International Fair in Luxembourg-Kirchberg under the name EXPOGAST.

From 1986 Vatel Luxembourg has organised the Culinary World Cup, one of the biggest and most important cooking competitions in the world taking place next year from 21st – 25th November where around 50 nations will be taking part, including 30 national teams and 15 junior national teams.

Following the recent selection draw for 2026, the National England Junior squad named to date include the following members:

• Jade Mitchell, Restaurant Cedric Grolet, The Berkeley Hotel, London (Team Captain)

• Oliver Grieve, Restaurant Albatross, Death Cult, Birmingham

• Lewis Thompson, Restaurant Circle, Birmingham

• Samantha Watkins, Savoy Hotel, London

• Amanda Salter, The Hive Catering Agency, Cheshire

• Jennifer May, Whitty College of Food, University College Birmingham

• Jude Hemming, Restaurant Trillium, Birmingham

• Alex Williams, Mallory Court Country House Hotel, Leamington Spa

• Harry Edwards, Grace and Savour, Hampton Manor

Chairman and Junior Team Manager, Mathew Shropshall (right) commented: “The culinary journey now starts for these young England BCF chef members who have undertaken a selection interview with fellow team managers Richard Taylor, Elliot Lawn and Kristian Curtis, providing CV’s and attending team meetings.

"During the next 12 months, the chefs will undertake intense training sessions and masterclasses alongside training with the senior team.We look forward to seeing how they all progress on their journey towards Luxembourg.”