This week saw the fifteenth and last of the Galloway Glens-supported Interns starting in post, with Finlay McGaw beginning a six month role with Mr.Pook’s Kitchen in Castle Douglas. Finlay’s role will include lots of training and will give him a broad overview of what its like to work in the sector, right here in Galloway.
Finlay – from New Galloway – started in the role this week, and said:
“A restaurant like Mr Pooks isn’t on every corner so the opportunity to break into a highly competitive and skilled field is a very attractive opportunity. I’m delighted to have the opportunity to work at such a high standard developing my culinary skills which will help me move my career forward in the future.”
Ed Pook said:
“Its a pleasure to be welcoming local Lad Finlay McGaw to the Kitchen!
We hope he gains a wealth of experience, knowledge and some chef scars over the following 6 months as we look to enjoy a busy summer season. Working with predominantly the kitchen team of Alan and Zulle our Sous chef and pastry chef and also with Luke in the Bar and Josie on the floor Fin should leave with a solid understanding of all the main tasks required to function in a busy fine dining restaurant environment and give him some direction for a future career either direct in the industry or give him the skills and confidence to direct his energies elsewhere. We shall look forward to working with him over the next 6 months.”
The Intern position is being supported by the Galloway Glens Scheme, an initiative of the Council’s Environment Team with funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. The scheme is working to encourage young people to plan their working future in the region. Jan Hogarth, Galloway Glens Education & Community Engagement Officer said:
“I couldn’t be more happy for Finlay to have secured this chance of a lifetime to work in a top-class restaurant with a sustainable approach to the sourcing and production of food. Ed Pook is inspirational and has so much to give a young person in terms of experience and skills, I wish Finlay all the very best for his internship and imagine it will lead onto a exciting career in the culinary arts!”
The Galloway Glens Scheme is a 5-year project based in the Stewartry region of Dumfries and Galloway. An initiative of Dumfries & Galloway Council’s Environment Team, it is funded by a range of partners including The National Lottery Heritage Fund. The Galloway Glens Scheme aims to connect people to their heritage and to support modern rural communities. www.gallowayglens.org.
