Totnes chef reaches final of prestigious Roux scholarship

A Devon chef making a name for himself in the culinary world is preparing to take on one of the UK’s most prestigious competitions.

Harrison Brockington, head chef at Gather, has reached the final of the Roux Scholarship, widely regarded as one of the toughest and most respected contests for chefs in the country.

For Harrison, the journey into the kitchen began at a young age. “I have been passionate about food from a young age, but it wasn’t until I was in secondary school studying Food Technology that I truly developed my love for cooking,” he said.

After completing his GCSEs, he went on to train at the Michael Caines Academy, gaining professional cookery qualifications and building the foundations of his career.

Now leading the kitchen at Gather in Totnes, he has become known for his seasonal approach to cooking and carefully crafted dishes, earning recognition across the South West.

“The Roux Scholarship is one of the most prestigious culinary competitions in the country and to get through to the final is an amazing accomplishment,” he said.

The final will take place at the renowned The Waterside Inn, where finalists will be given a brief and ingredients on the day, a challenge designed to test both technical skill and creativity under pressure.

“I’m excited but nervous as the time gets nearer as we will be given a brief and ingredients on the day,” Brockington added.

The Roux Scholarship has helped launch the careers of some of the UK’s top chefs, offering not only prestige but the opportunity to train with leading figures in the industry.

Despite the pressure, Harrison is focused on embracing the experience. “To win the competition would be an amazing experience,” he said.

Reaching the final already places him among the country’s most promising culinary talents, with the spotlight now on what he will produce on the day.