Young Chef of the Year

Scotland's top three young chefs have been unveiled as they compete for the coveted Young Chef of the Year title at the Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards on 26 May 2011.

Ross Marshall (25) from The Road Hole Restaurant at the Old Course Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa in St Andrews, David Goold (23) from Café St Honore in Edinburgh and Scott Spink (19) of Craigie's Farm Deli and Café in South Queensferry have all been shortlisted in the category, sponsored by Scottish Food & Drink Fortnight.

The hopefuls took part in a cook-off in Michelin-starred chef Martin Wishart's Cook School in Edinburgh where they created a main course from a selection of Scottish ingredients only revealed to them on the day.

Chosen to challenge their creativity, the ingredients sampled the best of Scotland's natural larder and included homegrown potatoes, leeks and shallots; flavoursome fresh herbs; and monkfish renowned for its firm texture and delicate taste.

They also took part in a short interview with Martin and fellow judges Paul McLaughlin, chief executive of Scotland Food & Drink and Richard Bath, editor of Scottish Field.

The winner will be announced at the Scotland Food & Drink Excellence Awards at Dunblane Hydro on 26 May and can look forward to a year full of exciting opportunities and events, representing the Scottish food and drink industry.