Colin McGurran - Dessert

What inspired your menu?

When creating my dishes at the forefront of my mind was celebrating and honouring all who made sacrifices for our future. I took inspiration from many different factors of the D-Day landings, from the soldiers’ points of view to the animals that we used and including personal and family contributions to the war effort.

What research did you do?

The thing I enjoyed about this year's brief was it was factual and there were lots of different angles. I bought DVDs and films, read lots of old cookery books and of course cyber surfed to collate as much information as possible.

I also asked family members about my grandparents who were involved in the D-Day landings. I didn’t quite know the full extent of their stories. For example, my granddad was a stoker on a ship on D-Day, which I found truly remarkable and awe-inspiring as this came as a surprise to me!

How did it feel to win a place in the national finals?

Winning a place was hugely rewarding! I felt proud to have reached the finals for the third time in a row and this year was especially important as it gave me an opportunity to show my gratitude to all those involved in the war effort. I was very keen to continue being a part of the competition.

How tough has the competition been?

The competition has been especially hard this year. There are so many ways to attack the brief and I thought there were some exceptional takes on it. There has been excellent cooking from all regions and some wonderful ideas.

What was it like learning your dish would be served at the D-Day banquet?

Winning the dessert course was a very rewarding experience and a true achievement. I was over the moon about having the opportunity to play my part at St Paul's Cathedral and honour the fallen heroes of the war by celebrating with those who had stood beside them.

What did it mean to cook for the war veterans in St Paul’s?

The lead up was exciting and I was very much looking forward to the experience. However nothing prepared me for the true inspiration I felt after speaking to the war veterans and hearing their personal tales. It truly overwhelmed me and I felt very insignificant next to such bravery.