This Is Guernsey

By Juliet Pouteaux

THE search is on for brave chefs to take on an F Word-style challenge. Kings Life is hosting a series of charity evenings where 40 patrons will pay only what they believe their three-course meal is worth.

‘I was just having a laugh with my boss, and I suggested it,’ said Kings Life head chef Martin Welch (pictured). ‘It will be a cross between The F Word and Hell’s Kitchen. We found a few teams who were interested and it went from there.’

There are seven evenings planned. A brigade of four chefs will have only four hours to cook a three-course meal to impress their diners.

So far, three teams have come forward, but several more are needed.

‘We are in need of another four teams,’ said Mr Welch. ‘We would much rather be oversubscribed. If it is popular, we will keep going.’

And cooking for 40 is not the only pressure the chefs will be under.

‘We have got cameras rigged up so diners can watch the chefs cooking.’

Patrons will be advised to pay £6 for a starter, £12 for a main and £6 for a dessert. However, they can then pay more or less than this, depending what they think of the food.

But anyone thinking they can get a free meal should think again.

‘This is for charity,’ said Mr Welch. ‘Anyone who doesn’t pay up will be asked why and there will be buckets at the end of the evening.’

All the money raised from the food will go to charity – even the waiting staff will be donating their tips.

Each chef team will have to pay £500 to enter. They then have the potential to raise £960 for their chosen charity from the heats. The team with the most paying customers will then return to cook for their fellow chefs, and will have the chance to raise another £960.

The competition starts on Friday 26 September.

• To enter a team or dine, contact Mr Welch on 723366 or email martin.welch@ kings-life.com.

Article posted on 17th September, 2008 - 11.30am