New category added to the mix for 2024 Taste North Challenge
A new entry category has been added into the mix for this year’s Taste North Challenge.
Held as part of the annual food and drink festival, the baking competition celebrates the use of ingredients produced in Caithness and Sutherland.
The 2024 Taste North Challenge will have four entry categories: 15 and under, 16-24, open and, new for this year, a commercial operator section for anyone who makes and sells food or baking products.
A £50 Taste North voucher prize and trophy will be awarded to each category winner.
The festival returns to Wick High School on Sunday, November 3, with celebrity chef Tony Singh as special guest.
He will be judging the entries as well as doing cookery demonstrations throughout the day.
Tony said: “The Taste North Challenge is a fantastic competition, and I can’t wait to try some amazing baking creations made with your favourite local ingredients from Caithness and Sutherland.
“Get your aprons on and submit your entry forms by October 28. I’ll see you at Wick High School on November 3 with your entries.”
The online entry form must be completed by Monday, October 28, with baked entries submitted at Taste North by 11am to be included in the judging process.
The Taste North Challenge is sponsored by Developing the Young Workforce North Highland and Mackays Hotel, Wick.
Trudy Morris, chief executive of Caithness Chamber of Commerce and DYW North Highland lead, said: “It’s hard to believe that Taste North is entering its ninth year. The growth and success of this event are a testament to the dedication of the organisers, businesses and supporters who have made it a flagship occasion in the local calendar.
“Taste North offers a fantastic opportunity for communities and visitors to come together and celebrate the richness and abundance of food and drink in the north Highlands.
“We are thrilled to be once again sponsoring the Taste North Challenge. At DYW North Highland, we are passionate about providing opportunities and platforms for our young people to thrive.
“Initiatives like this build confidence and encourage young people to explore new skills which will benefit them immensely as they prepare to enter the world of work.
“We are also excited about the introduction of the new commercial operator category for 2024. The competition promises to be fierce, with the exceptional talent of the local bakeries and food businesses in our region.”
More information on the Taste North Challenge, including how to submit an entry form, can be found at www.venture-north.co.uk/taste-north
The winners of the 2023 Taste North Challenge were Robyn Speirs (15 and under), Iona Simpson (16-24) and Emma Gordon (open).
