Oliver Maher is the latest to take part in VCC Talented Chef evenings

Oliver Maher from the Dun Cow in Ollerton near Knutsford is the latest young chef to take part in Visit Chester & Cheshire’s ‘Talented Chef’ evenings.

Oliver, who designed the three course menu for the evening, headed up the team on the night ensuring that all 59 diners were well catered for.

Oliver 23, has worked in the industry for 7 years and currently works as Sous Chef at the pub. Originally from Horwich, near Wigan, Oliver now enjoys creating wonderful dishes with local Cheshire produce.

His menu began with ‘babyshead, chips and peas, wet’, a tasty creation of suet pudding and triple-cooked chips based on one of his favourite dishes from home. This was served with a glass of Robinsons Dizzy Blonde and followed by a main of pan roasted wild sea bass with saffron fondant potato served with a chilled glass of rose wine. A dessert of classic glazed lemon tart ended the three courses.

22 year old Frances Norbury, currently Assistant Manager, was the young host for the evening.

Oliver said: “It was hard work but I really enjoyed the evening. I’ve been at the Dun Cow since December so this is a great opportunity to do something really creative like this. Chef Marc Mattocks has been incredibly supportive entering me for this challenge and it was great to work alongside him today – and even get the opportunity to boss him about a little!”

Frances, who is a past student of Holmes Chapel school, added: “I started working at the Dun Cow after being made redundant from an office job and have loved it - especially as both my sister and brother work here too! I used to work in the industry a few years ago and just really enjoyed the whole experience of running the restaurant for the night like this and meeting new people – even though it was hard work, it was worth it!”