Young Butcher to Defend Title

- Published: 14 November, 2007

A talented Mid Wales butcher is preparing to defend her title as Creative Skills Welsh Young Butcher of the year later this month.

Rhian Wynn Owen, who works in Cigydd Butchers, Aberdyfi, proved herself to be a cut above the rest in last years competition. This year four more young butchers will compete for her crown at the Royal Welsh Winter Fair in Builth Wells.

The competition is organised by the Cambrian Training company, an award-winning multi-national private training business with network of offices across the principality.

Managing director Arwyn Watkins said: "This competition aims to extend the theme of adding value to locally produced meat through the skills developed by local butchers.

"I believe the skills associated with butchery, which is one of our oldest trades, are often not given the recognition they deserve."

In the final- which will take place on 27 November at 2pm in the Carcass Hall of the Royal Welsh Showground- the five butchers will be set the task of presenting a range of oven ready cuts of quality Welsh lamb for the retail market from an average 20kg carcass.

Judges will focus on innovative butcher ideas that add value to the product; cutting and display techniques; creativity based on sound retail management principals; eye appeal; consumer friendly products; HACCP and personal hygiene; cooking knowledge and recipe ideas.

The winner will receive £200 prizemoney and a trophy. The runner up will collect £100 and the other three finalists will receive £25 each.