Frequently Asked Questions

Who carries out the judging?

Experts in their field. No one will judge a category where they have no expertise. Check the "Judges" tab to find out who is judging each category.

How many finalists are there?

There will be three finalists selected in each category.

What happens if I reach the finals?

You will be informed in writing.
You will receive 2 tickets to the Black Tie awards dinner on 8th October at Bartellas Restaurant, Margaretting, Essex when all the winners will be announced

What is the judging process?

After the closing date of 22nd May the top three with the most votes in the "public voting categories" go through to the finals and will be mystery visited by the judges who will decide on their winners after their visits.

The "entry categories" will go through a desk review by the judges and they will select three finalists from the paper entries. These finalists will be informed in writing and the judges will make an appointment to visit you on your premises in order for them to make their decisions on the winners. The winners of the three Chef categories will be decided at live cooking finals - see entry forms for details.

What is the closing date?

Friday 22nd May 2009

Which awards are open to the "Public Vote"?

Check out the "Public Voting" tab for a full explanation

How do I vote?

You can vote on line by clicking here
You can download a voting form and send in by post
You can text your vote

Which awards are "entry categories"

Check out the "entry categories tab for a full explanation

How do I enter?

You can enter on-line by clicking on the category you wish to enter. There will be an entry form and full details of the judging criteria and the information you should include in your entry. The exception to this is the Young Chef of the Year and Chef of the Future categories where a signed authorisation form from a parent or guardian must accompany the entry.

You can download the forms and send by post – address details on the forms

Request an entry form from Jenny Walker, Essex Chronicle Media Group ltd: 01245 605301

When and where is the awards evening?

Thursday 8th October 2009 at Bartellas Restaurant, Furze Hill, Margaretting, Essex

What do I get if I win?

The distinction of being the best in the county
Newspaper publicity and photographs
A superb awards plaque
A DVD of the awards evening

When will the winners be announced?

At the awards evening on 8th October.

If you have any further questions which we haven't addressed please contact Awards Organiser, Anne Pocock, Tel: 01245 400877.