Chefs at Thurlaston Meadows Care Home stepped into the spotlight for an evening of creativity and culinary delights.

Rsidents gathered last week to watch Sam Tuckey and Cory Bailey go head‑to‑head in a timed cook‑off competition packed with surprises.

It started in true Ready Steady Cook fashion as both chefs lifted the lids on their mystery ingredient bags.

With just 40 minutes on the clock, residents watched both chefs launch into action — slicing, searing, flambéing, and assembling with impressive focus.

Rsidents gathered to watch Sam Tuckey (left) and Cory Bailey go head‑to‑head in a timed cook‑off competition packed with surprises.

placeholder image — Rsidents gathered to watch Sam Tuckey (left) and Cory Bailey go head‑to‑head in a timed cook‑off competition packed with surprises.

But just as the heat reached its peak, the timer was dramatically stopped at the 20‑minute mark to introduce an extra surprise mystery ingredient, sending both chefs back into creative overdrive.

Sam wowed the judges with a beautifully crafted ballotine of chicken stuffed with tarragon, breadcrumbs and walnuts, paired with pear and walnut, mixed salad pears poached in brandy and red wine, finished with cream and marshmallows.

Cory delivered a striking mix of flavours and textures, featuring stilton mousse, pickled beetroot, pan‑fried chorizo, pineapple, and a pretzel crumb.

Linda Davies, Catering & Events Manager at Thurlaston Meadows Care Home, said: “After an evening filled with tension, teamwork, laughter and cheers from the audience, Sam’s dish earned him the top spot.

"Both chefs received well‑deserved praise for their creativity and professionalism under pressure.”

Linda said the event was a fantastic success, bringing residents and staff together for an evening of entertainment, complete with sizzling pans, surprise twists and plenty of smiles.

Staff and residents are now looking forward to an Antiques Roadshow-style event.