Castleford Chef Wins National Title at Great British Care Awards
Chris Beech, Chef at Newfield Lodge residential and dementia care home in Castleford, has won the National “Care Home Cook/Chef” Award 2017, at the prestigious Great British Care Awards. Chris, who was named the Yorkshire Regional Finalist in November 16, received the accolade on Friday night. He was judged alongside several other regional finalists from care homes across the country.
Over 900 social care personnel attended the national awards on Friday 31st March at Birmingham’s prestigious International Convention Centre with actor and singer, Martin Kemp, on hand to present awards. The awards pay tribute to individuals who demonstrate outstanding excellence in their field of work. Entrants are first nominated by colleagues, relatives and residents before undergoing rigorous judging by experts during the Regional and National stages.
Chris, who has worked at Newfield Lodge since 2012, was overwhelmed by his win. He said, “I am speechless that I have won this award. I love going into work every day and I always make time to have a chat with our residents. I know they appreciate everything I do but it is incredible to have this recognition too.”
Chris and his kitchen team produce all meals for the residents at Newfield Lodge, and they are always mindful to ensure that their cuisine is nutritious and varied, as well as tasty. Mary Maskill, who has lived at Newfield Lodge for four years, said “I am so pleased for Chris, he really deserves this award”.
The judges commented that they had chosen Chris as their winner due to his demonstration of how he skilfully combines his passion for food and people into an art that benefits both residents and fellow members of staff.
Home Manager at Newfield Lodge, Paula Mountjoy, said “We are all so pleased for Chris, the residents are always saying how good his food is, especially the cakes! He really understands the importance of providing an exceptional mealtime experience for everyone who lives at Newfield Lodge, and that the healthy food choices he provides can truly enhance our resident’s quality of life.”
Newfield Lodge is operated by Ideal Carehomes and has 64 en-suite bedrooms. The home is committed to offering their residents aspirational lifestyle choices and an active social environment with events, trips and daily activities on offer.