Great British Menu episode 18 2020 – South West – Judging: The two highest-scoring chefs from the south west of England go head to head and cook their six-course menus again. But will they take on board their veteran’s advice as they serve the panel of judges and a famous guest judge?

The chefs need to impress the formidable judges – food writer Matthew Fort, restaurateur Oliver Peyton and broadcaster and cook Andi Oliver – as well as a guest judge, author, comedian and children’s author Nina Wadia. She writes to raise money for children with diabetes.

Great British Menu episode 18 2020 – South West – Judging

This week, the battle is on with the heats for the south west of England. Competitive chef Joe Baker is returning for another crack at the contest after being runner-up in the regional final last year.

This week, the chefs are specifically tasked with honouring the theme of animals and picture books. Joe is making a mille-fuille of autumn leaves to represent a forest floor with an array of mushrooms, inspired by the Enchanted Wood by Enid Blyton. Guy prepares an ambitious ode to The Wind in the Willows with his take on Ratty’s picnic, and fellow newcomer Thomas honours author Dick King Smith, with a personal connection having had lunch at his house as a child. Harriet is making cheese fondue with several variety of apples to honour a local author from Lyme Regis. The chefs’ fate depends on the scores they receive from their veteran and, with one person leaving after the fish course, nerves are running high.