Adam Bennett to represent Britain in Bocuse d'Or 2013

Adam Bennett, head chef at Simpsons restaurant in Edgbaston, has been chosen to represent Britain in the next Bocuse d'Or competition.

The chef, who has worked for Simpsons for more than eight years, was picked by British team judges Brian Turner, Nick Vadis, Michael Coaker and David Pitchford following a five-hour cook-off at the University of West London in Ealing yesterday.

Bennett and fellow contestant Martin Hollis, resort kitchen manager at Gleneagles, were tasked with preparing a saddle of lamb with their choice of three garnishes before plating up and presenting to the judges.

Speaking at the event, Turner praised the work of both men before announcing Bennett as the 'frontman'.

"Both candidates will be part of the team, but the whole idea of today was to find a frontman who will represent the UK team. We've now got lots of things to learn and lots of things that we can teach people. Thank you for your efforts," he said.

Bennett said he was looking forward to the challenge of the competition.

"I now need to try and learn as much as I can about the style of the Bocuse d'Or and pick the brains of those who've done it before and really get up to speed," he added.

Earlier this year the British team, fronted by Simon Hulstone, took thirteenth place in the world finals having reached fourth place in the european heats last year.

Bennett will now prepare for the European final of the competition in Brussels next March ahead of the next Bocuse d'Or competition in Lyon, France in 2013.