Stephen Crane, Michelin-starred Head Chef of Ockenden Manor in Cuckfield, West Sussex, has won the renowned CLA Food Award for his outstanding contribution to Britain’s local and regional food industry.
The CLA Food Award, which was established in 2005, is given to a food champion or practitioner whose work has promoted the quality of locally produced food. The 2014 award was presented by Helen Woolley, Director General of the CLA, in the Cookery Demonstration Theatre on 18 July at the CLA Game Fair at Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire.
Key requisites of winning the award are passion, environmental awareness and quality and the award is also designed to give consumers a greater knowledge of local food and the benefits it has for their community.
Mr Crane won the award for his unique use of locally sourced ingredients and produce in his menus and for the impact this has had on Ockenden Manor’s business in terms of attracting new clients and on repeat bookings.
Previous recipients of the CLA Food Award include the Countess of Cranbrook, Alexia Robinson, Rachel Green, Henrietta Green and last year Stephen Hallam of Dickinson & Morris, producer of Melton Mowbray pork pies.
Charles Trotman, Senior Business & Economics Adviser at the CLA, who assessed the recommendations for the award, commented: “It was clear from the quality of the local produce supplied and turned into gastronomic feasts that Ockenden Manor is a renowned retreat for those who savour their food and that Stephen Crane was a very worthy recipient of the CLA Game Fair Food Award.”
Mr Crane added: “I am utterly delighted to have won this coveted award and to have my work cooking with and using local produce recognised in this way. Ockenden Manor has long been known for its fine dining and to win this award is a great accolade for everyone that works here.”