A WINCHESTER chef has taken second prize in a county-wide awards to celebrate Hampshire produce.

Gavin Sinden, head chef at the Wykeham Arms, took part in the Fuller’s in-house competition as part of the autumn Hampshire Fare.

Mr Sinden prepared his pork loin and faggots with compressed pear and autumn vegetables.

Prizes were awarded by Fuller’s head of food Paul Dickinson and operations manager Stephen Ramos.

Mr Ramos said: “This was a closely fought competition between our six finalists with just a few points between them. All the judges were impressed by the standard of the finalists who were showcasing both their skills and the quality of the local produce.”

Tracy Nash, commercial manager with Hampshire Fare, added: “This event was a great opportunity for the public to meet a range of local producers, but it was in particular a celebration of Fuller’s support for Hampshire produce.

“I am always impressed and delighted with the way our food community interacts and supports each other and I would also like to thank Sunnyfields who supplied the kitchens for the competition.”

Oscar Whiteman of Cams Hill in Fareham took first prize and third place was awarded to Nick Campbell of Plough Inn in Ealing.