Richard Silverman - a cut above the rest
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Take one recently qualified butcher’s apprentice, mix with a great deal of talent, skill, passion and flare, place in an award-winning farm shop famed for its quality and freshness, and what do you get? A well-risen finalist in the 2021 WorldSkillsUk excellence at work Butchery Competition held in November.
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Richard Silverman, who was recently elevated to Counter Manager at The Lambing Shed Farm Shop and Café, near Knutsford, after just five years in the trade, beat countless participants from around the UK to make it to the competition’s final seven.
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Having breezed through two regional rounds, Richard, an ex-personal trainer, with a long-term passion for healthy food and living, chose “Sustainability” as his theme for the final, which was held at Reaseheath College, one of the most renown food centres in Europe.
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He impressed the top-level judges - all liverymen from Butchers Hall – with his well-rounded knowledge of animal anatomy, cuts of meat, prepping, recipes, and health and safety.
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“Held over two days, it was hard work but an enriching experience,” said Richard. “It comprised five disciplines from sausage making to breaking down a top and rump of beef, and in true Master Chef style.
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Not exiting with a top gong did not phase Richard in the least. His name was put forward with just three months to prepare. “Having competed, I’ll be able to prep with more clarity next time.”
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WorldSkillsUk is a member of WorldSkills, a global movement of more than 80 countries that supports young people via annual competitions-based training, assessment and benchmarking.
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The butchery competition focuses on all the essential skills required for a successful career as a multi-skilled Butcher within the Food Manufacturing Industry.
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