Ockenden Manor Hotel & Spa’s Senior Sous-Chef Freddie Innes is cooking up a storm on this year’s season of MasterChef: The Professionals. The 25-year old Chef flew through the first round and won the judges over with his signature pan-fried sea bass with parsnip puree, fondant potato and a red wine jus.

Born and raised in Sussex, Freddie developed a love for cooking from his grandparents, who he spent a lot of time cooking with as a child. From baking with his grandmother to joining his grandfather, a gamekeeper, on local pheasant shoots in the Sussex countryside, Freddie grew up surrounded by people with a passion for food.

Following a year at catering college, Freddie decided to dive into the world of fine dining by joining the award-winning restaurant at Ockenden Manor in Sussex as a Commis Chef. Freddie commented: “At Ockenden Manor, no two days are the same – that’s why I enjoy it so much. You meet different guests, create new dishes and meet local suppliers, all while always working as a team.”

Last year, while on holiday in Spain, Freddie was encouraged to apply for MasterChef: The Professionals by his girlfriend and her mother. In spring he was selected as one of the 48 contestants from thousands of applicants.

Along with the full support of his home county, Head Chef at Ockenden Manor Stephen Crane is proud to champion the talents of this rising star: “We’re very proud of Freddie. The most natural step for me is to encourage the next generation of chefs. I enjoy building positive relationships and inspiring youth to realise their dreams and fulfil their potential.”