Ashleigh

Head chef at the Cotswolds pub, Ashley Farrand knows she's got what it takes to be a force to be reckoned with this week. 

Ashleigh: "Hopefully being used to different environments, high stress situations, having to think on your feet will push me that little edge that I need to get through such a broad brief. It'll be interesting if anyone's had the same idea. 

Cheltenham's Ashley is head chef at a rural Cotswold pub, a role she's had since she was just 23 years old.

Ashleigh: "I like to take a traditional dish and then put more of a modern day twist on it. The main thing is it has to taste good. I never want my food to be described as style over substance. "

 Ashleigh: "To represent the south west is amazing. I've grown up in the area. I've only really worked in the Cotswolds, so the South West's all I know. Perseverance has got me to where I am today and I'd like to think it will see me through to the banquet. I've never let anyone stand in my way and tell me no. "