A cheesemonger from Berkshire has been announced as a finalist in this year's Young Cheesemonger of the Year contest.

Jack Welch, from the Pangbourne Cheese Shop, will be representing Berkshire in the prestigious competition.

The contest, which will take place on November 15 at the World Cheese Awards in Viseu, Portugal, aims to highlight the skill, knowledge, and talent of individuals in the industry.

The other finalists for the award include Mia Crouch from Supercheese in Victoria, Australia; Daniel Iliev from Paxton & Whitfield in London; Orla Jackson from Neal’s Yard Dairy in London; Lily Jenkins from Hill Street in Hobart, Tasmania; and Dominic Jones from Rennet & Rind in Cambridgeshire.

The finalists were selected after they submitted a short biography and recommendations for their perfect cheeseboard.

The six finalists will now go head-to-head on November 15, across five rounds, including a Perfect Pairing round, the quick-fire Q&A "MasterRind" – testing their cheese general knowledge – and the fast-paced cut and wrap round.

The contest is sponsored by Peter's Yard and the Guild of Fine Food.

The coveted title of Young Cheesemonger of 2024 will be awarded at the World Cheese Awards, along with a trophy, a BOSKA Professional Cheesemonger Tool Set, a feature in Fine Food Digest, and a place on the Academy of Cheese Level Two Member Certification course.

The winner will also be invited to judge at the World Cheese Awards 2025.

The Academy of Cheese established the Young Cheesemonger of the Year award to promote cheese knowledge and provide career development within the industry.

The aim is to build greater respect for the industry and showcase the skill, knowledge, and talent of its members.