2015 MEAT SKILLS SCOTLAND COMPETITION

Finalists are announced for the 2015 Meat Skills Scotland Final

Judging has taken place throughout March in the heats of the 2015 Meat Skills Scotland competition. From an initial entry of 30, the finalists have now been announced. The judges Stewart Dempsie and George Lees said that they were privileged to be invited to so many shops to judge the heats and thank employers for giving their butchers time and encouragement to practice for, and take part in the competition. George added:-

"All competitors were full of enthusiasm and much ingenuity was shown in preparing and displaying a shoulder of pork. These young butchers are a credit to the Meat Trade. The competitors who have not reached the final should note that some have reached the final at their third attempt. We would encourage all to try again in 2017."

Over 22 category
Steven Cusack, Davidson Specialist Butchers, Inverurie
Gary MacLean, Alex Mitchell Butchers, Glenrothes
Jamie Syme, Alex Mitchell Butchers, Glenrothes
Steven Strachan, Hendersons of Hamilton

Under 22 category
Lisa Finnigan, Davidson Specialist Butchers, Inverurie
Ryan Docherty, Hollerans, Tillicoultry
Jack Whyte, Hollerans, Polmont
Daniel Earl, Kilnford Farm Shop, Dumfries

Congratulations to all who have qualified to take part in the Final. The Meat Skills Final will take place at the Dewars Centre, Perth on Sunday 10th May,

The Under 22 category will commence 9.00am prompt and finalists will be allocated 2½ hours to work with:-

Compulsory:- One Shoulder of Pork (cut between fourth and fifth rib) , One Saddle of Lamb (cut between 5th and 6th, chump off.) , Thick Flank of Beef (approx weight 6 kilos)

The Over 22 category will commence 12.30pm prompt and finalists will be allocated 2½ hours to work with:-

Compulsory:- One Shoulder of Lamb (cut between 5th and 6th rib, shank down) , One Pork Middle; i.e. one Single Loin end end only with belly attached , Thick Flank of Beef (approx weight 6 kilos)