Early-bird chef makes awards final (From South Wales Guardian)

Early-bird chef makes awards final

8:00am Monday 15th October 2012 in News

AFORMERAmmanford builder has constructed such a fine reputation for himself as head chef at a care home that he has been shortlisted for the finals of a major national competition.

Paul Johnson, 50, has had a wide variety of jobs during his working life, including a spell as a builder.

But when he changed career direction just over three years ago to take charge of the kitchens at Cartref Ael-y-Bryn in Penybanc, he says he found his true vocation at last.

Paul, who lives in Ammanford, is a finalist in the 2012 Wales Care Awards.

He has been shortlisted in the catering category, sponsored by Woodward Food Services.

This is the tenth anniversary of the awards and the glittering presentation ceremony will be held at City Hall in Cardiff on Friday, October 26.

Three and a half years ago Paul became number two in the kitchen at Cartref Ael-y-Bryn. Sixteen months ago he was promoted to head chef.

He regularly takes residents out on minibus day-trips to the coast and the Black Mountains – both in summer and winter – and also brings in films for them to watch.

He is also famous for coming in the home each day at 5am – three hours before his shift officially begins – to make cakes and desserts for the residents.

Paul said: “I do things like this simply because I love the job and meeting and talking to the residents, who are all great people.

“Of all the jobs I’ve had over the years this is definitely the best.

“When I heard I was in the finals of the Wales Care Awards I was chuffed and shocked and I am very much looking forward to the presentation night in Cardiff.”

Paul was norminated for the awards by Lahshmy Pengelly, the home’s deputy manager, who said of him: “He more than meets the needs of our residents.”