A finalist from the BBC One’s hit show MasterChef will talk about her passion for local produce and how to cook with confidence when she appears at this year’s Nottinghamshire County Show.
Claire Syrenne, from Newark, has been added to the line-up to the show when it returns to the Newark Showground on May 9, showcasing the very best of rural life with livestock competitions, trade stands, countryside games and live entertainment.
Mum-of-two Claire, 48, was pipped to the trophy in the Masterchef final last year and is now using her new-found celebrity to encourage people to find confidence in everyday cooking and helping them to better understand where their food comes from.
She will be judging elements of the county show’s Make, Bake & Grow competition, awarding prizes and hosting an interactive audience session celebrating the versatility of Nottinghamshire’s produce and the journey from field to kitchen.
Visitors to her talk will be able to learn about how to use Nottinghamshire produce such as Bramley apples in their cooking, alongside practical tips, flavour inspiration and plenty of ideas they can try straight away at home.
Claire said: “I’m passionate about helping people feel confident and understand where their food comes from. County shows are such an important bridge between the farmers who grow food and the people who enjoy it.
“When we understand how the food we eat is produced and the work that goes into it, we make better choices and feel more confident cooking it.
“My aim is to help people build confidence and enjoy food without feeling intimidated. You don’t need complicated recipes to cook well; sometimes it starts with something as simple as an apple.”
Organised by the Newark and Notts Agricultural Society, the Nottinghamshire County Show reconnects visitors with the countryside, showcasing the people, produce, and skills that shape the region’s rural life.
Elizabeth Halsall, events manager for the Nottinghamshire County Show, said: “Claire’s approach is exactly what the county show is all about – celebrating great local produce while making food feel approachable and relevant to everyday life.
“She has a wonderful way of telling the story behind what we grow and eat, and we are delighted to welcome her to this year’s event.”
Visitors can also look forward to the return of firm favourites including the sheep show, Festival of Food; the Make, Bake & Grow competitions; the Community Zone; live music; trade stands; livestock and equestrian competitions; and a full programme of activities designed especially for children.
Tickets for the Nottinghamshire County Show are available now, with visitors encouraged to secure their booking in advance via www.nottinghamshirecountyshow.com.
