Dennis Mwakulua wins Compass Chef of the Year title

Mwakulua who was supported at the event by fellow Compass team members from Fujitsu, said he worked hard in preparation for the contest, even trailling some of his competition dishes at Compass' Chertsey Innovation Centre to gain experience working in a different kitchen. The talented chef was presented his trophy, gold medal and £1,000 by Compass Group UK & Ireland marketing director John Pain. Also picking up an award was young chef James Baker from the British Airways Waterside team, who scooped the Junior Chef of the Year title. Baker, aged 24, was presented his trophy by Compass Group & Ireland managing director Ian El-Mokadem. Along with the trophy, the winning chef also walked away with £500 and a year's membership with the Craft Guild of Chefs. The chef put his win down to "consistency and great seasoning" in the dishes he created. Nick Vadis, Compass UK executive chef, commented: "The culinary talent on display at this year's competition really was exceptional – the entire Compass team did us proud!" The Compass competition was staged at this year's London Restaurant Show, which kicked off at Earl's Court from 6-8 October.