HEAD Chef at Raglan Arms, Matthew Long, has received a finalist award for representing the pub in a national competition.

The 28-year-old was nominated by David Davies MP for the Parliamentary Pub Chef of the Year award.

The award was launched by the British Beer and Pub Association and the All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group.

Nominations from MPs across the UK were received and Matthew was chosen as a successful finalist.

Matthew competed in a cook off in London and came runner up in the Young Chef of the Year Award category. David Davies MP met with Matthew yesterday (5th April) to give him the finalist award.

Matthew said: “Being nominated by David Davies to represent Monmouthshire in the UK-wide inaugural parliamentary young pub chef of the year award, organised by the British Beer and Pub Association in conjunction with the All-Party Association, provided me with the opportunity to represent the Raglan Arms of Llandenny in the prestigious award.

“To be selected as a finalist in the cook-off, which took place in London earlier this year, is recognition of what I am striving to achieve in the way of very high standards and quality of food served at the Raglan Arms.

“It is good to see the Raglan Arms get the recognition it deserves.”

Joint owner of the Raglan Arms, Judith Brown, said: “Matthew is a very experienced and accomplished head chef and we are extremely lucky to have him working at the Raglan Arms.”

David Davies MP said: “This competition has confirmed that high quality food is far from the preserve of restaurants but is available in many pubs up and down the country.

“Matt is a huge talent in the sector and he has transformed the dining experience at the Raglan Arms.

“To reach the final stage of this prestigious new award is no mean feat and it is a pleasure to congratulate him in person on a remarkable achievement.

“Matt is a shining example of a great British pub chef and goes to show what a rewarding career option catering can be for young people.”