Watford hospital chefs take national NHS catering title

Two chefs from Watford General Hospital have been crowned the winners of NHS Chef of the Year 2026 after competing against seven other hospital teams.

Dawn Roberts and Tommy Trinder secured the national title following a four-day final at Edgbaston in Birmingham. The pair, who work for healthcare catering provider Medirest, were praised for their creativity, technical skill and teamwork under pressure.

Finalists were challenged to produce a three-course meal costing between £6 and £8 per person while meeting strict nutritional and sustainability requirements. The starter had to be plant-based, one course completely free from allergens and no nuts could be used. The main course also needed to provide at least 26g of protein per serving, while half of the dessert had to consist of fruit.

Roberts and Trinder impressed the judges with dishes including a turmeric-poached pear dessert served with baked yoghurt, warm ginger cake, cinnamon crumb, pear reduction and pear crisp.

Trinder said winning demonstrated what the team could achieve under pressure, while Roberts described the competition as a valuable opportunity to learn from mentors and chefs working across other hospitals.

NHS England said the annual competition highlights the important role good food plays in patient recovery and wellbeing, while recognising the skill required to produce nutritious meals within hospital budgets and operational constraints.

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