Award-winning Deaf chef, presenter and TV personality Scott Garthwaite will be bringing his signature energy, creativity and passion for inclusive cooking to this year’s #AmazingAccrington Food & Drink Festival on Saturday 6th June.
Known widely as the “Punk Chef,” Scott has built a reputation for bold, vibrant dishes inspired by global street food and more than 20 years of professional kitchen experience. His unique approach blends classical training with exciting, accessible flavours that resonate with food lovers of all backgrounds.
Scott’s career spans top-tier kitchens, including Michelin-starred environments and a growing presence across television and digital platforms. As a proud Deaf chef and presenter, he has appeared on Channel 4’s Steph’s Packed Lunch, the BBC and Lumo TV, using his platform to champion accessibility and representation within the food and media industries through British Sign Language (BSL).
Born and raised in Hartlepool, Scott discovered his love for cooking at a young age and has since developed a style that reflects his personality which is creative, fearless and full of flavour. His ethos centres on the belief that food is a universal language, capable of bringing people together regardless of background or ability and he is passionate about inspiring more Deaf people to explore careers in hospitality.
Festivalgoers will have the chance to see Scott in action during a live cooking demonstration at 1:30pm in the main event gazebo on Broadway alongside his BSL interpreter, where he will showcase his distinctive approach to modern, flavour-packed cooking.
Speaking ahead of the event, Scott Garthwaite said: “I’m absolutely buzzing to be coming to Accrington for the first time. I’ve heard such great things about the festival and I’m really looking forward to meeting everyone. It’s going to be a fantastic day and I can’t wait to share my cooking and be part of such an exciting event.”
Scott’s appearance adds to an already packed programme, which includes four live demonstrations from Sean Noonan, Head Chef at the Mercure Dunkenhalgh Hotel & Spa. The Dunkenhalgh and Hyndburn Borough Council are the main sponsors of the free-to-attend festival, which runs from 10am to 4pm.
North Lancs Training Group (NLTG) and Hospitality Tutor, Lee Lowe, will also be supporting Sean with one of his live cooking demonstrations on the day.
Visitors can expect a vibrant celebration of food and drink, featuring a wide variety of stalls, a continental food market, a chilli challenge and a brand-new Hyndburn-focused area showcasing the very best local food and drink businesses.
There are ten places available in the popular Dunkenhalgh Chilli Challenge and those wishing to take part are encouraged to email editor@amazingaccrington.co.uk to be considered.
Murray Dawson, Chair of #AmazingAccrington and Managing Director of Scott Dawson Advertising, said: “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Scott to this year’s festival. He is not only an incredibly talented chef, but also someone who is passionate about making food more inclusive and accessible. That’s something we are proud to promote alongside him on 6th June and we know visitors are going to love seeing him in action.”
To stay up to date with the latest news and announcements, visit www.amazingaccrington.co.uk
