Michel Roux senior took time out from his busy schedule to attend the Northamptonshire Food & Drinks Award in November. He is pictured above with Vita Whitaker, Commercial Director of Whitco, whch sponsors the Restaurant of the Year Award. He is pictured above with Vita and with the award winners from Palmichael, the Burton Latimer Italian restaurant.

From a shortlist of the county’s finest restaurants, The Palmichael took first place ahead of Olive from Corby, which specialises in Mediterranean cuisine. The award was a fitting highlight for Palmichael’s 35th anniversary.

Said Vita:” We were particularly honoured that Michel, who lives in Switzerland, was able to attend. To have such an internationally honoured figure as our guest for the evening underlines the growing importance of these awards which are now in their eighth year and going from strength to strength.”

Guests made up of finalists, judges, sponsors, media partners and supporters then enjoyed a three course meal designed and created by Lee Scott, with help from a team of culinary students from Northampton College who switched their regular classes for the experience of being part of the prestigious event. Michel, who has a long-held commitment to developing the skills of young chefs, took the opportunity to visit the students and encourage them in their careers.