Judging panel for Great Sausage Roll Off revealed

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Former champion: 2020 Great Sausage Roll Off winner Alan Chilton

The judges for this year’s Great Sausage Roll Off have been unveiled for the competition, which is taking place on Wednesday 8 February at the Red Lion in Barnes, south London.

This year’s judging panel will feature Sunday Brunch’s Simon Rimmer, LBC’s James O’Brien, UKHospitality chief executive Kate Nicholls, Midsummer House chef-patron Daniel Clifford and Hicce co-owner Pip Lacey.

The Red Lion general mangers Claire Morgan and Angus McKean launched the competition, which sees entrants from across the nation cook and serve sausage roll creations to a panel before an overall champion is crowned, in 2013.

Humbling commitment

McKean said: “I am so excited to show off this year’s judging panel and I’m very humbled by their commitment to head down to Barnes for the night.

“We’ve not held the Roll Off for three years so I’m delighted we are coming back with a bang(er) this year.

“The calibre of judges means our entrants have a tough challenge ahead of them. The competition is always a bit of fun for everyone involved but this year it is tinged with a little more emotion than usual, with a chance for us all to come together and share the tribulations our industry has had and continues to experience.

“What better way to do it than over a world-class sausage roll and a beer (or two!)”

Competition details

It was announced the competition would be returning after a three-year hiatus in November last year.

Open to chefs from all backgrounds, this year’s Roll Off entries have been whittled down to a final 16.

There is no specific entry criteria with all that is required being a thoughtful recipe, with a twist of passion and a whole lot of love.

Those looking to sample the treats, alongside the judges, can head to the Red Lion where there will also be funds raised for Hospitality Action.