The World Chocolate Masters' UK & Ireland preselection will happen in London on 18 February at Westminster Kingsway College, London. But is not just a competition. The World Chocolate Masters are about getting to know chocolate, experiencing the richness of flavours of different origins, different extremes, the Purity from Nature. They're about tasting desserts created by the greatest chefs in the world, meeting the creators and getting to know Or Noir. High time we present you all the UK & Ireland contestants, starting with Alistair Birt.

Source: the London Chocolovers website

Whilst studying at university, Alistair fell in love with all things sweet and chocolate. Under the tutorage of Yolande Stanley MCA he travelled across the UK and America visiting top industry names, which cumulated in him representing the UK in pastry at Worldskills in Canada 2009. He has been at William Curley for over five years and is responsible for all production, which includes chocolates, patisserie, baked goods, plated desserts and much more. Alistair has competed in many competitions, including the last UK selection for the World Chocolate Masters where he came in second and won the awards for Best Showpiece and Best Cake. Alistair has also visited China on a British council tour, demonstrating and lecturing on the benefits of skilled labour and has also been a guest lecturer at Westminster Kingsway College several times. In 2013 Alistair received the coveted Acorn Award, which acknowledges people under 30 who have made a significant contribution in their field.

Alistair, what does chocolate mean to you?

“I have always loved chocolate from an early age, but just like the majority of my peers I enjoyed a Cadbury cream egg. Now, over time and experience, I have come to love fine high-quality chocolate and all the nuances of individual blends and brands. I believe chocolate is one of the great mediums for creativity, there are so many things you can do with it and you never finish learning.”

And why are the World Chocolate Masters important for you?

“To compete in the World Chocolate Masters final in Paris for my country would be a great honour and a career goal I’ve always had. It’s a great reason to push yourself and be as creative as possible.”

We wish you a lot of success, Alistair!

Would you like to visit and experience this exciting event? Then contact Jayne at Jayne_cowley@barry-callebaut.com.